Ready to take your Caribou Coffee experience to the next level? In this blog post, we’ll show you how a few simple twists—think milk swaps, flavor-boosting syrups, and creative add‑ins—can transform your go‑to order into a personalized masterpiece. Whether you’re craving extra foam, craving a sugar‑free kick, or want to sneak in a protein boost, these insider tips will help you craft a drink that’s perfectly tailored to your taste buds. Get ready to unlock hidden menu options, maximize your Caribou Perks®, and sip smarter with our top customization hacks!
Understanding the Caribou Coffee Menu
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned regular, Caribou Coffee’s menu offers something for every taste—hot or iced, bold or mild, classic or creative. Knowing how to navigate the offerings and customizations can help you create your perfect drink every time.
Signature Drink Categories
Caribou Coffee’s beverage lineup is designed to suit a wide range of preferences and moods. Drinks are organized into several core categories, each one fully customizable:
- Espresso Lattes
Traditional and flavored lattes made with rich espresso and steamed milk. Available hot or iced. - Crafted Presses
A signature Caribou creation—a smooth blend of cold press coffee, real cream, and sugar, shaken and served cold or blended. - Cold Brews
Steeped for hours for smoothness and low acidity. Try it black or with a splash of milk or cold foam. - Mochas & Breves
Chocolatey espresso drinks topped with whipped cream. Breves use half-and-half for a creamier texture. - Hot & Iced Teas
Choose from green, black, or herbal teas, served plain or sweetened. Tea lattes also available. - Steamers & Hot Cocoa
Non-caffeinated warm drinks perfect for kids or anyone avoiding coffee. Customizable with syrups and toppings. - Seasonal Specials
Limited-time creations that highlight trending flavors or seasonal favorites—like pumpkin in the fall or mint in winter.
For the latest and most detailed menu, check the Caribou Coffee Menu.
Core Customization Options
Caribou’s commitment to personalization means you can adjust nearly every element of your drink. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular customization categories:
Milk Choices
Choose from dairy or non-dairy options to suit your dietary needs or preferences:
- Dairy Options: Whole milk, 2%, nonfat
- Non-Dairy Alternatives: Almond, oat, and coconut milk
Pro Tip: Caribou Perks members who order through the app get non-dairy milk options at no extra charge!
Syrups & Flavor Shots
Add a twist to your drink with classic or sugar-free flavor shots:
- Classics: Vanilla, caramel, hazelnut, cinnamon, lavender
- Sugar-Free Options: Sugar-free vanilla, caramel, hazelnut
You can request light syrup or extra pumps to fine-tune sweetness.
Espresso Modifications
Make your coffee stronger or change its profile:
- Extra Espresso Shots: For those who need an extra boost
- Ristretto Pulls: A shorter, more concentrated espresso shot
- Americano Style: Espresso with added hot water for a smoother, lighter finish
- Espresso Tonic: A refreshing, citrusy mocktail-style drink made with espresso and Fever-Tree tonic water
Toppings & Mix-ins
A great drink is all about the finishing touches:
- Toppings: Whipped cream, chocolate or caramel drizzle, cinnamon sprinkle
- Cold Foams:
- Lavender Cold Foam: Delicate and floral, pairs well with cold brew
- Honey Whipped Foam: Sweet and creamy, adds depth to any iced coffee
Top Customization Hacks to Try at Caribou Coffee
Craving something a little different? Whether you’re an adventurous sipper or just looking to spice up your usual order, these customization hacks let you explore new flavors while making the most of Caribou’s flexible menu. Try one of these creative mashups next time you order—either in-store or through the app!
1. Espresso‑Based Creations
Espresso drinks form the foundation of the Caribou menu, and with a few small changes, you can create completely new flavor experiences.
Caramel High Rise with a Twist
Start with the Caramel High Rise—a blend of espresso, steamed milk, and caramel sauce. By adding a half-pump of vanilla syrup and requesting coconut milk cold foam as a topping, the drink takes on a tropical, lightly sweetened character that’s both balanced and indulgent.
Espresso Tonic Variations
Caribou’s espresso tonic (espresso served over ice with Fever-Tree tonic water) is already a modern, mocktail-style beverage. You can enhance the experience by adding an orange wedge and a pump of simple syrup for a citrusy, gently sweet twist. For something more adventurous, ask for a Cherry Peach Espresso Tonic—available at select locations or easily assembled with flavor syrups.
2. Tea-Based and Non-Coffee Innovations
If you’re not in the mood for coffee, there are still plenty of ways to customize Caribou’s tea lattes and alternative beverages.
Lavender Matcha Fusion
Matcha lovers can take their usual order up a notch by combining oat milk, a pump of lavender syrup, and topping the drink with honey lavender cold foam. This variation works well hot or iced and offers a calm, aromatic profile with a subtle sweetness.
Pumpkin Chai Latte Upgrade
Chai Tea Lattes are a customer favorite, but they become something even more comforting with the addition of pumpkin spice syrup. A cinnamon sprinkle and a swirl of vanilla cold foam add texture and warmth, making this a go-to choice during cooler months—or year-round for pumpkin enthusiasts.
Related Post: Not a coffee fan? You’ll still enjoy Caribou Coffee for Non-Coffee Drinkers.
3. Cold & Iced Innovations
Iced White Mocha with Lavender Cold Foam
This customization begins with an Iced White Mocha as the base. Swapping in oat milk creates a smoother mouthfeel, while topping with lavender cold foam brings a fragrant, creamy finish that complements the mocha’s sweetness.
Caramel Cooler Espresso Hybrid
For fans of blended beverages, the Caramel Cooler®—a coffee-forward drink blended with ice and caramel sauce—makes a satisfying base for customization. To give it more depth and energy, add an extra shot of espresso, transforming the sweet slushy into a bolder, more caffeinated pick-me-up. For added richness, request an extra pump of vanilla syrup or more caramel blended in. To finish, top it with turtle pieces—the same crunchy, chocolatey topping used in the Turtle Mocha—for a dessert-like texture and satisfying toffee-style bite.
Explore More: Beat the heat with refreshing picks from Caribou Coffee’s Iced Drinks for Summer.
4. Secret Menu Gems
These combinations are not officially on the menu, but they can be made easily by requesting a few simple modifications.
Green Tea Fizz
Refreshing and lightly energizing, this custom order combines sparkling green tea lemonade with a splash of matcha syrup. It’s bright, grassy, and ideal for warm afternoons or post-workout recharges.
Honey Lavender Espresso Shaker
A newer favorite among regulars, this drink features espresso shaken with lavender syrup and honey, then poured over ice. Topped with oat milk cold foam, it’s both soothing and rich—perfect for those who enjoy subtle floral notes with their coffee.
Pro Tips for Ordering at Caribou Coffee
Caribou Coffee’s flexibility and digital tools make it easy to personalize drinks and earn rewards—whether you’re ordering in person or on the go. Below are some tips to help streamline your experience, maximize customization, and take full advantage of the Caribou Perks® loyalty program.
Ordering Online vs. In‑Store
App Perks
The Caribou Coffee app allows for detailed customizations without the risk of miscommunication. Notably, Perks members enjoy milk substitutions (almond, oat, coconut, or soy) at no extra charge when ordering through the app. You can also save custom drinks for easy reordering—ideal for frequent customers or those with a go-to modified beverage.
In‑Store Dialog
When ordering in person, it helps to clearly state your modifications in order:
- Drink base (e.g., Caramel Cooler, Matcha Latte)
- Size
- Milk preference
- Syrups or flavor additions
- Toppings (cold foam, whipped cream, drizzle)
- Any extra espresso shots or temperature preferences
This structured approach helps baristas prepare your drink correctly the first time and keeps the line moving smoothly.
Participate in the Customization Contest
Caribou occasionally hosts a Customization Contest, encouraging fans to share their most creative drink hacks. Winning entries are often featured online or in stores, and prizes have included free coffee for a year and other exclusive perks. Keep an eye on social media and the app for submission periods—this is a fun way to contribute to the Caribou community and showcase your creativity.
Making the Most of Caribou Perks®
Loyalty Pays Off
Caribou Perks is a free rewards program that lets you earn points on every purchase. Redeem your points for free drinks, food items, or even exclusive customizations. Members also receive a free drink on their birthday, and benefit from surprise rewards, early access to new items, and double points days throughout the year.
Mobile Ordering Benefits
Pre-loading funds onto your Caribou app account enables faster checkouts and simplifies pickup orders. It also ensures your payment is seamless, especially during busy hours. Additionally, in-app ordering allows you to track your Perks status and see when you’re eligible for your next reward.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best milk alternatives at Caribou Coffee?
Caribou offers a variety of dairy-free milk options including almond, oat, and coconut milk. Each has a unique flavor profile—oat is creamy and mild, almond is nutty, and coconut pairs well with fruity or floral flavors.
How do I make my drink less sweet?
You can request fewer pumps of syrup or ask for sugar-free options when available. You can also substitute honey or avoid whipped cream to tone down sweetness.
What’s a good hack for a low-calorie drink?
Try a Crafted Press with almond milk and sugar-free syrup, or go for a cold brew with a splash of oat milk and no added sweeteners. You can also ask for light syrup or skip toppings to cut calories.
Can I get extra caffeine in my drink?
Yes! Ask for an extra shot of espresso or choose a drink that already packs a punch, like a Mocha or a Nitro Cold Press. You can also combine cold brew with espresso for a serious energy boost.