How To Order Starbucks' Secret Menu Hot Cocoa Cold Brew

It may only be November, but step into any Starbucks store and there's no denying that the holiday season is already well underway. Snowman cookies glitter in the bakery case, twinkling garlands and string lights decorate the counter, Christmas music plays softly in the background, and every drink is served in the retailer's iconic red holiday cups. It's the best time of the year for a warm and toasty beverage from everyone's favorite coffee shop — but with so many delicious options, what should you order?

The holiday menu at Starbucks is full of everything from peppermint mochas to caramel brûlée lattes, but it's the secret holiday menu that really steals the show this season. And there's one drink in particular for 2020 that gives you the caffeine hit of your go-to iced coffee along with the nostalgic flavor of your childhood hot chocolate: the Hot Cocoa Cold Brew.

You can't order the Hot Cocoa Cold Brew by its name

There's one catch about the Hot Cocoa Cold Brew, however. If you try to order it by name, chances are that your local barista will have no idea what you're talking about — and no idea how to make it. Thus, you have to follow the specific instructions laid out by the bloggers at Totally The Bomb (or watch their TikTok if videos are more your thing). Don't worry, though, it's easier than it sounds!

Start by ordering a regular Venti Sweet Cream Cold Brew but ask for just two pumps of vanilla. Next, ask for your barista to add one pump of toasted white mocha and four pumps of mocha. Lastly, if you want to get a little fancy, ask for a dusting of chocolate powder and some chocolate curls sprinkled on top. The result will be a festive drink that looks every bit as good as it tastes.