The Strawberry Shortcake Frappuccino, a delightful concoction reminiscent of warm summer days and comforting desserts, has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of Starbucks enthusiasts. While it’s not an official menu item, this secret menu treat can be easily ordered through the Starbucks app with a few clever customizations. This guide provides a detailed walkthrough, ensuring you can enjoy this delicious Frappuccino whenever the craving strikes.
Understanding the Strawberry Shortcake Frappuccino
Before diving into the ordering process, let’s understand what makes this Frappuccino so special. It’s essentially a Vanilla Bean Frappuccino base, jazzed up with strawberry puree and topped with whipped cream. Some variations also include additions like raspberry syrup or vanilla sweet cream cold foam, further enhancing the “shortcake” flavor profile. The beauty of ordering through the app lies in the ability to customize your drink to perfection, tailoring it to your specific preferences.
Why Order Through the Starbucks App?
Ordering via the Starbucks app offers several advantages. Firstly, it allows for precise customization, ensuring your Strawberry Shortcake Frappuccino is exactly as you desire. Secondly, it saves time by skipping the line and ordering ahead. Thirdly, you earn rewards points with every purchase, bringing you closer to free drinks and other perks.
Preparing for Your Order
Before you open the app, it’s helpful to have a clear idea of what you want. Think about the size, any desired modifications to the base recipe, and extra toppings. This pre-planning will streamline the ordering process and minimize any confusion at the pickup counter.
Familiarize Yourself with Starbucks Customization Options
The Starbucks app offers extensive customization options. Take some time to explore the various syrups, sauces, toppings, and dairy alternatives available. This knowledge will empower you to create truly unique and personalized beverages, not just the Strawberry Shortcake Frappuccino.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Ordering
Here’s a detailed breakdown of how to order your Strawberry Shortcake Frappuccino using the Starbucks app:
Step 1: Opening the App and Navigating to the Menu
First, ensure you have the Starbucks app downloaded and installed on your smartphone or tablet. Open the app and sign in to your account. On the home screen, locate and tap the “Order” button at the bottom of the screen. This will take you to the menu page.
Step 2: Selecting the Base Frappuccino
Since the Strawberry Shortcake Frappuccino is a customized drink, we need to start with a base. Select “Frappuccino Blended Beverages” from the menu. Then, choose the “Vanilla Bean Crème Frappuccino.” This will serve as the foundation for our strawberry shortcake creation. Choose your desired size (Tall, Grande, or Venti).
Step 3: Customizing the Drink
This is where the magic happens! On the Vanilla Bean Crème Frappuccino order screen, you’ll see a “Customize” button. Tap on it to access the customization options. This is where you’ll add the elements that transform the Vanilla Bean Frappuccino into a Strawberry Shortcake delight.
Step 4: Adding Strawberry Puree
Scroll down through the customization options until you find the “Add-ins” section. Look for “Strawberry Puree.” Select it and add the desired number of pumps. A good starting point is 2 pumps for a Tall, 3 pumps for a Grande, and 4 pumps for a Venti, but feel free to adjust based on your preference. Remember that strawberry puree adds sweetness and the characteristic strawberry flavor.
Step 5: Consider Adding Raspberry Syrup (Optional)
For an extra layer of fruity sweetness, consider adding Raspberry Syrup. Locate the “Syrups” section in the customization menu and select “Raspberry Syrup.” Adding a pump or two can enhance the overall flavor profile, making it even more reminiscent of a strawberry shortcake. This is completely optional but recommended for those who like a sweeter taste.
Step 6: Toppings: Whipped Cream is a Must
Ensure that “Whipped Cream” is selected under the “Toppings” section. This is a crucial element of any shortcake-inspired drink. You can also add other toppings like Caramel Drizzle or Mocha Drizzle for an extra touch of sweetness, but whipped cream is the non-negotiable topping.
Step 7: Extra Customizations (Optional)
Here’s where you can get creative. Consider adding the following for an even more decadent experience:
Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Foam
Adding Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Foam will create a creamy, flavorful topping that complements the strawberry and vanilla flavors beautifully. Locate the “Cold Foam” section and select “Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Foam.”
Other Syrups or Sauces
Experiment with other syrups or sauces like White Mocha Sauce or Brown Sugar Syrup for a unique twist. However, be mindful of adding too many flavors, as it could detract from the core strawberry shortcake profile.
Step 8: Reviewing and Placing Your Order
Once you’ve added all your desired customizations, carefully review your order summary. Double-check the size, base drink, added ingredients, and toppings to ensure everything is correct. If you’re satisfied, tap the “Add to Order” button.
Step 9: Selecting Your Store and Payment Method
You’ll be taken to the order summary page. Select your desired Starbucks location for pickup. Choose your preferred payment method and apply any rewards or promotions you may have.
Step 10: Placing the Order
Finally, tap the “Place Order” button. You’ll receive a confirmation message and an estimated pickup time. Keep an eye on the app for updates on your order status.
Tips for the Perfect Strawberry Shortcake Frappuccino
Here are some additional tips to ensure your Strawberry Shortcake Frappuccino is a success:
Communicate Clearly with Baristas (If Needed)
While ordering through the app minimizes the need for direct communication, don’t hesitate to politely explain your customizations to the barista when picking up your drink, especially if you have any specific requests. This can help avoid any misunderstandings and ensure your drink is made to your liking.
Experiment with Ratios
Don’t be afraid to experiment with the ratios of strawberry puree and other syrups to find your perfect balance. Start with the recommended amounts and adjust based on your personal preferences.
Consider Dairy Alternatives
If you’re dairy-free or prefer non-dairy options, you can easily substitute the milk in the Vanilla Bean Crème Frappuccino with soy milk, almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. Simply select your desired alternative in the “Milk Options” section of the customization menu.
Adjust Sweetness Levels
If you find the Strawberry Shortcake Frappuccino too sweet, you can reduce the number of pumps of strawberry puree or raspberry syrup. You can also ask for fewer pumps of the Frappuccino base syrup.
Take Advantage of Starbucks Rewards
Be sure to use your Starbucks Rewards account when ordering through the app to earn points towards free drinks and other benefits.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes, things don’t go as planned. Here are some potential issues you might encounter and how to address them:
Ingredient Availability
Occasionally, a particular ingredient, such as strawberry puree or raspberry syrup, may be temporarily unavailable at your local Starbucks. In this case, the app will usually indicate that the item is out of stock. Consider alternative customizations or choose a different drink.
Customization Limitations
While the Starbucks app offers extensive customization options, there may be some limitations. For example, you may not be able to add a specific topping that is not listed in the menu. If you have a particular request that cannot be accommodated through the app, you can try explaining it to the barista when you pick up your drink.
Order Errors
Mistakes can happen. If you notice an error in your order confirmation, contact the Starbucks store immediately to see if they can correct it before preparing your drink.
Enjoying Your Strawberry Shortcake Frappuccino
Once you’ve picked up your customized Strawberry Shortcake Frappuccino, take a moment to savor the delightful combination of flavors. The creamy vanilla base, the sweet strawberry puree, and the fluffy whipped cream create a truly irresistible treat. Share it with a friend or enjoy it as a personal indulgence.
The Strawberry Shortcake Frappuccino is a testament to the power of customization within the Starbucks app. By following these steps and experimenting with different variations, you can create a personalized beverage that perfectly satisfies your cravings. Happy sipping!
Can I actually order a “Strawberry Shortcake Frappuccino” directly from the Starbucks app?
No, the Strawberry Shortcake Frappuccino isn’t an official menu item at Starbucks, meaning you won’t find it listed by that name directly on the app. Instead, it’s considered a “secret menu” or customized drink that you need to build yourself using the app’s customization features. This involves starting with a base Frappuccino and then adding specific ingredients and modifications to recreate the desired flavor profile.
To order it, you’ll need to start with a Vanilla Bean Crème Frappuccino, then add strawberry puree, vanilla syrup (or more, depending on your desired sweetness), and top it with whipped cream and either strawberry drizzle or dried strawberries (if available). Understanding this customization process is key to getting the drink you want.
What is the base drink I need to start with on the Starbucks app to make a Strawberry Shortcake Frappuccino?
The foundation for recreating a Strawberry Shortcake Frappuccino on the Starbucks app is the Vanilla Bean Crème Frappuccino. This provides the creamy, vanilla base upon which you’ll build the strawberry shortcake flavors. It’s important to select the Vanilla Bean Crème Frappuccino rather than a coffee-based Frappuccino, as the coffee flavor will detract from the intended taste.
Once you’ve selected the Vanilla Bean Crème Frappuccino, you can then proceed to customize it by adding the ingredients that will give it the strawberry shortcake taste. These additions will transform the vanilla base into the customized drink you desire.
How do I add strawberry puree and vanilla syrup through the Starbucks app?
After selecting the Vanilla Bean Crème Frappuccino, tap the “Customize” button. This will open up a menu of options for modifying your drink. Navigate to the “Add-ins” section to find the strawberry puree. Increase the number of pumps to your preference; usually, 2-3 pumps is a good starting point for a Grande size, but adjust based on your desired strawberry intensity.
To add vanilla syrup, look for the “Flavors” section within the customization menu. Here, you can add pumps of vanilla syrup. Since the Vanilla Bean Frappuccino already has some vanilla flavor, consider adding 1-2 pumps for a Grande size to complement the strawberry puree. You can always add more syrup to future orders if you prefer a sweeter drink.
What if I can’t find “strawberry puree” as an add-in option on the Starbucks app?
If you are unable to locate “strawberry puree” as an add-in option, it could indicate a few possibilities. First, the specific Starbucks location may be temporarily out of stock of the strawberry puree. Secondly, the availability of strawberry puree might be dependent on the season or specific promotional periods.
If you can’t find it, consider asking the barista directly when you pick up your order if they can add strawberry sauce, if available, as a substitute. Alternatively, you could try a different Starbucks location or check back later to see if the option reappears on the app.
Can I customize the size of the Strawberry Shortcake Frappuccino when ordering through the app?
Yes, you can absolutely customize the size of your Strawberry Shortcake Frappuccino when ordering through the Starbucks app. Before you begin adding customizations, you’ll see options for “Tall,” “Grande,” and “Venti” sizes. Choose the size that best suits your preference.
Remember that the amount of strawberry puree and vanilla syrup you add might need to be adjusted based on the size you select. For example, a Venti size will likely require more pumps of each than a Tall size to maintain the desired flavor balance. Keep this in mind when customizing the drink.
Is there a way to request the barista to add whipped cream and strawberry drizzle through the app?
Adding whipped cream is usually a standard inclusion for Frappuccinos, but you can confirm it by checking the “Toppings” section in the customization menu on the Starbucks app and ensuring whipped cream is selected. For strawberry drizzle, look for the “Drizzle” option, which might be under “Add-ins” or “Toppings,” depending on the app’s layout.
If you don’t see a specific option for strawberry drizzle, you can add a note in the “Special Instructions” box, requesting that the barista add whipped cream and strawberry drizzle (if available). Be polite and clear in your request, as availability can vary by location.
How can I be sure the barista will know I’m ordering a customized “Strawberry Shortcake Frappuccino” even though it’s not on the menu?
Since the Strawberry Shortcake Frappuccino is a customized order, the key is to be clear in your instructions. In the “Special Instructions” box on the Starbucks app, briefly describe the drink you’re trying to create. For example, you could write, “Vanilla Bean Frappuccino with strawberry puree and extra vanilla syrup, topped with whipped cream and strawberry drizzle (if available).”
Being specific in your notes ensures the barista understands your request and can prepare the drink as closely as possible to your desired flavor profile. This clear communication will help minimize any confusion and increase the likelihood of receiving the drink you envisioned.