Ever wondered what gives Starbucks drinks that dreamy floral finish in spring? It’s the Lavender Cold Foam — a creamy, aromatic topping that adds a unique twist to cold coffee and matcha drinks. In this guide, you’ll learn everything about it: what it is, how many calories it has, how to make it at home, and exactly how to order it.
What Is Lavender Cold Foam at Starbucks?
Lavender Cold Foam is a seasonal topping introduced on Starbucks’ 2024 spring menu. It blends dairy, sweeteners, and lavender flavor to create a whipped foam served on cold drinks.
- Base: Typically made from 2% milk and heavy cream
- Flavoring: Lavender syrup or Starbucks’ signature lavender powder
- Texture: Frothy, silky, and light enough to float on top of drinks
It’s most famous for topping the Iced Lavender Cream Oatmilk Matcha, but you can ask to add it to cold brews, iced teas, or refreshers.
What’s Inside: Ingredient Breakdown
The official Starbucks ingredient list is proprietary, but based on reviews and DIY versions, here’s what you’ll find in the lavender cold foam:
- Dairy Base: 2% milk + heavy cream (froth-friendly combo)
- Lavender Syrup or Powder: Adds floral notes and sweetness
- Natural Colors: Some versions use carrot or blackcurrant for color
- Sugar: The foam is sweetened by default (can be customized)
For home versions, most creators use Monin Lavender Syrup or homemade versions steeped from culinary lavender.
Calories & Nutrition: Foam Only & Drink Combo
If you’re watching sugar or fat, here’s a helpful breakdown.
Lavender Cold Foam (estimate for 1/4 cup):
- Calories: ~71
- Sugar: ~5g
- Fat: ~6g
- Protein: <1g
Full Drink Example — Iced Lavender Matcha (Grande):
- Calories: 260–380 (depending on milk and syrup level)
- Sugar: 28–33g
- Fat: 11–20g
- Caffeine: ~80mg
To make it lighter:
- Ask for “light cold foam.”
- Request fewer syrup pumps
- Try almond or oat milk base instead of the default options
Flavor & Texture: What Does Lavender Foam Taste Like?
The foam offers a mild, sweet, floral taste. Think of it as a whisper of lavender, not a punch.
Top taste comparisons from fans:
- “Like Lucky Charms marshmallows, but classy.”
- “Sweet cream with a hint of perfume”
- “Floral vanilla cloud”
Some people say it’s too subtle, while others love its spa-like, calming aroma.
Where to Use Lavender Cold Foam
You don’t have to stick with matcha. Here are drinks it pairs beautifully with:
- Cold Brew Coffee: Lavender softens the bitterness
- Iced Matcha Latte: Their official pairing
- Pink Drink: TikTok’s secret menu suggestion
- Iced Tea or Lemonade: Add a floral kick
Ordering Tip: Ask your barista to “add lavender cold foam” to any iced drink.
DIY Lavender Cold Foam Recipe (Copycat)
Skip the drive-thru and make this at home in under 5 minutes.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp 2% milk
- 1 tbsp lavender syrup (store-bought or homemade)
- Optional: food coloring or a pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a frother or French press.
- Froth until thick and doubled in volume.
- Pour gently over iced coffee, matcha, or tea.
Nutrition Estimate:
- Calories: ~71
- Sugar: ~5g
- Fat: ~6g
Want a DIY lavender syrup?
- Simmer 1/2 cup water + 1/2 cup sugar with 1 tbsp culinary lavender for 5 mins. Strain and cool.
Ordering Tips for Starbucks Lavender Foam
Want it your way? Here’s how to personalize:
- Less sweet: Ask for 1 pump of syrup or light foam
- Dairy-free: Starbucks doesn’t yet offer non-dairy cold foam, but some locations allow oat milk blending
- Custom pairing: Try it on an iced Americano or cold brew with vanilla base
- No caffeine: Add it to an iced Passion Tea or Lemonade
FAQs About Lavender Cold Foam
Q: What is lavender cold foam at Starbucks?
A sweet cream topping flavored with lavender syrup or powder.
Q: How many calories are in lavender cold foam?
Roughly 70–80 calories per serving (about 1/4 cup).
Q: Can I make it at home?
Yes! All you need is cream, milk, and lavender syrup.
Q: Can I order it dairy-free?
Not officially, but you can ask if your store can froth oat milk.
Q: Is it super floral?
It’s subtle, not overpowering—great for beginners trying lavender flavor.
Final Thoughts: Should You Try It?
If you like delicate, floral drinks and aesthetic vibes, this spring-inspired topping is a must-try.
Yes, try it if you:
- Love sweet cream foam or floral flavors
- Want to dress up your cold drinks
- Enjoy experimenting with seasonal menus
Maybe skip if you:
- Need low-sugar or dairy-free options
- Prefer strong coffee flavors over floral
Related Reads
- Dunkin’s Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso
- Lavender Matcha at Starbucks
- Copycat Taco Bell Dirty Baja Blast Recipe
Ready to try Lavender Cold Foam?
Whether you sip it on matcha or cold brew, it’s a perfect way to welcome spring in a cup. Or, whip up your version at home for a relaxing, floral treat any time!