Caribou Coffee has long been a favorite among coffee enthusiasts for its cozy atmosphere and diverse menu of handcrafted beverages. Whether you’re a seasoned Caribou regular or a newcomer eager to explore, there’s a drink tailored to every palate. From rich, chocolate-infused mochas to refreshing, fruit-forward iced teas, Caribou offers a delightful array of options that cater to both traditional tastes and adventurous cravings. In this guide, we’ll highlight ten standout drinks that showcase the best of what Caribou has to offer, ensuring your next visit is both satisfying and memorable.
Why Caribou Coffee?
Caribou stands out in a sea of coffee chains thanks to its dedication to real, responsibly sourced ingredients and small-batch craft. Their menu ranges from time-honored staples—like mochas made with real chocolate chips and lattes dusted with hand-ground spices—to vibrant, modern picks like iced fruit shakers, matcha blends, and sparkling energy drinks. Every drink is built for flavor, freshness, and a feel-good experience, no matter your style.
How We Chose These Drinks
We didn’t just go for the most Instagrammed. Each drink on this list was chosen based on:
- Flavor balance – Does it taste as good as it sounds?
- Uniqueness – Is it something you can only get at Caribou?
- Caffeine kick – From mellow to high-octane, there’s something for every energy level.
- Fan buzz – What the Caribou crowd is actually raving about.
Whether you’re chasing your next caffeine high, looking for a cool non-coffee option, or just want to try something new and delicious, this list has you covered.
Top 10 Must-Try Drinks at Caribou Coffee
1. Frozen Matcha with Bubbles
A fan favorite for a reason, the Frozen Matcha with Bubbles blends earthy matcha green tea powder with ice, creamy vanilla, rich half-and-half, and Caribou’s proprietary shake mix to create a smooth, frosty drink with just the right balance of sweetness and depth.
But the real fun starts at the bottom—each cup is finished with coconut coffee jellies that add a tropical, chewy pop in every sip. The matcha’s natural bitterness is mellowed by the vanilla and cream, making it a great intro for matcha newbies and a summer staple for seasoned fans. Whether you’re lounging in the sun or running errands, this icy green delight is a refreshing way to cool down while treating your taste buds.
2. Vanilla Espresso Shaker
For those who want bold flavor with a smooth finish, the Vanilla Espresso Shaker delivers in every way. Fresh-pulled espresso shots are shaken vigorously with ice and vanilla syrup, creating a light froth and deepening the espresso’s natural flavors. It’s then topped with a splash of oat milk, creating a beautiful ombré effect that looks just as good as it tastes.
Don’t let the silky texture fool you—a small cup contains a powerful 295 mg of caffeine, making it one of Caribou’s strongest non-cold brew options. The balance of rich espresso, warm vanilla, and creamy oat milk makes this drink both energizing and easy to sip, especially on warm days when you need something chilled and full of character.
Great as a morning jumpstart or an afternoon reboot, this shaken classic is where bold meets smooth.
3. Strawberry Fruit Shaker
Light, fruity, and undeniably summery, the Strawberry Fruit Shaker is Caribou’s take on a tropical refresher—perfect for when you want something cool without the caffeine. Created in collaboration with Tractor Beverage, this vibrant drink blends creamy coconut milk with a real strawberry fruit base and ice, then tops it all off with dried strawberry bits for extra texture and visual flair.
The result? A smooth, juicy sip that tastes like a beachside smoothie—bright, sweet, and refreshing, without being overly rich or sugary. It’s a great pick for mornings, midday breaks, or even an evening wind-down when you’re skipping the coffee but still want something fun and flavorful.
4. Crafted Press Nitro Cold Brew
For cold brew lovers who want extra smoothness and a touch of indulgence, the Crafted Press Nitro Cold Brew is a standout. Caribou’s Cold Press is steeped slowly in cold water for hours, then expertly filtered and infused with nitrogen to create its signature silky texture and cascading micro-bubbles.
The result is a rich, creamy mouthfeel—without any dairy—and a naturally low-acid, bold flavor that’s easy on the stomach but big on coffee taste. You can enjoy it straight from the tap or as an Iced Crafted Press, which blends in a splash of cream and sweetener for a customizable twist.
Whether you’re starting your day or need a smooth caffeine boost, this velvety nitro brew is an elevated take on cold coffee that delivers boldness without bitterness.
5. Caramel High Rise®
A Caribou signature and fan-favorite, the Caramel High Rise® is a sweet, satisfying classic that’s stood the test of time. This indulgent drink starts with rich espresso and steamed milk, then adds in real caramel sauce—not syrup—for that deep, buttery flavor. It’s finished with a generous swirl of whipped cream and a final drizzle of caramel for the perfect dessert-meets-coffee experience.
You can enjoy it your way: hot and cozy, iced and refreshing, blended like a caramel shake, or even as a Nitro option for a creamy, cold twist. However you choose to sip it, the Caramel High Rise® offers the perfect balance of sweetness and caffeine, making it the ideal pick for caramel lovers who want a little treat with their buzz.
6. Turtle Mocha
If you’re in the mood for something decadent, the Turtle Mocha is a next-level treat that blurs the line between coffee and dessert. This drink starts with real chocolate chips melted right into steamed milk—no powders here—creating a rich, velvety base. From there, it’s blended with bold espresso and smooth caramel sauce, bringing together deep cocoa and buttery sweetness in every sip.
The indulgence doesn’t stop there: it’s crowned with a generous swirl of whipped cream, drizzled with more caramel, and topped with crunchy praline “turtle” pieces that add texture and a nutty finish.
Served hot, iced, or blended, the Turtle Mocha is a go-to for anyone who wants their coffee with a serious sweet side. It’s rich, satisfying, and totally crave-worthy—perfect for when you’re treating yourself or need a little comfort in a cup.
7. Vanilla Caribou Cooler®
Think of the Vanilla Caribou Cooler® as the ultimate coffee slushie—icy, creamy, and just sweet enough to feel like a treat. This blended favorite mixes chilled coffee with ice and vanilla flavoring, creating a smooth, refreshing texture that’s lighter than a traditional frappe but still packed with flavor.
It’s finished with a swirl of buttery whipped topping, adding a soft richness to every sip. The vanilla keeps things classic and comforting, while the icy blend makes it perfect for hot days or anytime you want a break from heavier espresso drinks.
Whether you’re new to coffee or just in the mood for something cool and indulgent, the Vanilla Cooler hits that sweet spot between refreshment and dessert—no spoon required.
8. Classic Chai Latte
When you’re skipping the coffee but still want something warm, bold, and comforting, the Classic Chai Latte is a top pick. Caribou blends spiced black tea with steamed milk to create a creamy, aromatic drink that’s both soothing and energizing. The chai base features a well-balanced mix of cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and other warming spices, delivering just the right amount of heat without being overpowering.
Served hot or iced, it’s a go-to for tea lovers who crave a flavorful alternative to espresso drinks. And thanks to its bold spice profile, it easily rivals chai lattes from larger chains, offering a cozier, more handcrafted feel.
Whether you’re looking for a mid-morning pick-me-up or a calming sip on a chilly evening, the Classic Chai Latte brings warmth and spice in every cup.
9. Berry-C Energy Drink with Coconutmilk Cold Foam
Looking for a vibrant, fruity boost that skips the coffee altogether? The Berry-C Energy Drink is a sparkling, colorful pick-me-up that brings both flavor and function. Packed with berry-forward fruit flavors, a burst of vitamin C, and an energizing dose of caffeine, this drink offers a lighter, fruitier alternative to traditional energy drinks or espresso-based options.
What makes it stand out is the layer of coconutmilk cold foam—creamy, slightly sweet, and totally refreshing. It floats on top of the fizzy base like a tropical cloud, mellowing the tangy fruit notes and adding a silky texture with every sip.
10. Cinnamon Sugar Caramel Espresso Shaker
Bringing cozy, churro-inspired vibes to your iced coffee lineup, the Cinnamon Sugar Caramel Espresso Shaker is a seasonal standout you’ll wish was available year-round. This spring favorite starts with fresh-pulled espresso, shaken with a rich cinnamon-sugar-caramel sauce and ice, then topped with a splash of oat milk for a smooth, subtly spiced finish.
The flavor is nostalgic and warming—think cinnamon toast meets iced latte—with just enough sweetness to satisfy without overwhelming. The oat milk adds a creamy balance, while the shake technique creates a light, frothy texture that makes each sip feel crafted and refreshing.
Perfect for those who want a unique twist on their daily espresso, this limited-time release brings warmth and comfort to your cup—served cold, of course.
Customization Tips
One of the best parts about ordering from Caribou Coffee is how easy it is to make any drink your own. Whether you’re dialing up the flavor or adjusting for dietary needs, there are plenty of ways to personalize your cup:
- Swap your milk – Choose from almond, oat, or coconut milk—free for Caribou Perks members ordering through the app.
- Add some flair – Top off your drink with oatmilk cold foam, espresso whip, caramel drizzle, or a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra flavor layer.
- Seasonal syrups – Ask about limited-time options like honey lavender, pumpkin spice, or other rotating flavors available at participating locations.
- Caffeine your way – Go decaf, half-caff, or add extra espresso shots depending on your energy needs.
From flavor boosts to fun toppings, there’s no wrong way to build your perfect sip.
Maximize Your Caribou Experience
Want to get the most out of every visit? Here are a few easy ways to level up your Caribou routine:
- Order Ahead – Skip the line and save time by ordering through the Caribou Coffee app or online. Customize your drink, choose your pickup spot, and you’re good to go.
- Join Caribou Perks® – Sign up to earn one to two point for every dollar spent, then redeem for free drinks, exclusive discounts, and birthday rewards. Plus, Perks members enjoy extras like free non-dairy milk customizations when ordering through the app.
- Stay in the Loop – Keep an eye on Caribou’s Newsroom and social channels for seasonal menu drops, limited-time flavors, and holiday specials—spring and winter often bring the most exciting surprises.
With a little planning (and a lot of perks), your Caribou runs can become even more rewarding—and delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between Cold Press and Nitro Cold Press?
Cold Press is Caribou’s version of cold brew—smooth, low-acid, and served over ice. Nitro Cold Press takes it up a notch by infusing the brew with nitrogen, giving it a creamy, velvety texture (without any dairy) and a more robust flavor.
Are there caffeine-free options at Caribou?
Yes! Try a Fruit Shaker, steamed milk with flavor, or a decaf version of almost any espresso drink. You can also ask for half-caff or even customize the number of espresso shots in your beverage.
What drinks are good for non-coffee drinkers?
Great picks include the Frozen Matcha with Bubbles, Classic Chai Latte, Fruit Shakers, and any of the sparkling energy drinks—especially those with cold foam. There’s something for everyone, even without the espresso.
Can I make my drink dairy-free?
Definitely. Caribou offers almond, oat, and coconut milk, and Perks members get these options for free when ordering via the app. You can also add cold foam made with oatmilk for an extra treat.
How do I earn rewards with Caribou Perks®?
Just sign up through the Caribou Coffee app or online. You’ll earn 1 point per $1 spent, and points can be redeemed for free drinks, exclusive offers, and birthday treats. Ordering ahead through the app also unlocks extra perks like customizations.
Do menu items vary by location or season?
Yes—while core favorites are available year-round, seasonal drinks and some specialty items (like pumpkin spice, honey lavender, or limited-time shakers) are available at select locations and during certain times of year. Check the app or Caribou’s website for what’s available near you.