As I savored the comforting warmth of my favorite holiday sweater, I couldn’t shake the craving for something festive and indulgent. Enter the Starbucks Santa Claus Frappe—a creamy strawberry shortcake holiday treat that whisks you away to a winter wonderland with each sip. This delightful drink features a luscious Vanilla Bean Frappuccino paired with sweet strawberry puree, topped with a cloud of whipped cream and a sprinkle of holiday cheer. Not only is it a showstopper for your festive gatherings, but it also offers a fun, homemade twist on a popular café classic, making it a perfect way to say goodbye to bland fast food. Are you ready to experience the magic? Let’s whip up this delightful concoction together!

Why is this drink a must-try?

Festive Delight: The Starbucks Santa Claus Frappe transforms your holiday season into a flavorful celebration—it’s like enjoying strawberry shortcake in a cup!

Simple Steps: This recipe is easy to master, requiring no barista experience. Just blend, layer, and top—simple enough for anyone!

Customizable: Feel free to swap out the strawberry puree for other flavors like raspberry, or add peppermint for a minty twist. The options are endless!

Crowd-Pleaser: Serve this at your holiday gatherings and watch it disappear—everyone will love the festive look and delicious taste! For a fun variation, check out the Santa Claus Pretzel too!

Homemade Joy: Ditch the fast-food lines and embrace the joy of homemade flavors that bring warmth and nostalgia to your winter celebrations.

Starbucks Santa Claus Frappe Ingredients

Get ready to create this festive delight at home!

For the Base

Vanilla Bean Frappuccino – This creamy base brings sweetness and richness, perfect for that indulgent flavor.
Strawberry Puree – The fruity essence of strawberry shortcake, fresh or store-bought puree works wonders!

For the Topping

Whipped Cream – A luscious crown that adds a luxurious touch; opt for dairy or non-dairy options based on your preference.
Christmas Sprinkles – These festive decorations not only add sweetness but also make the drink look cheerful and fun. Feel free to swap them out for other toppings if desired!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Starbucks Santa Claus Frappe

Step 1: Blend the Base
In a blender, combine the ingredients for the Vanilla Bean Frappuccino. Add ice, milk, vanilla extract, and sugar, then blend on high for about 30 seconds, or until the mixture is creamy and smooth. Ensure there are no ice chunks for that perfect milkshake texture. This will serve as the delicious base for your Starbucks Santa Claus Frappe.

Step 2: Prepare the Strawberry Puree
If using fresh strawberries, blend them with a bit of sugar until you achieve a smooth puree, which should take about 1-2 minutes. If using store-bought puree, simply set it aside. The vibrant pink color should catch your eye, indicating it’s ready to add a burst of strawberry flavor to your drink.

Step 3: Layer the Glass
Take a tall glass and drizzle or spoon in the strawberry puree. Use the back of a spoon to spread it along the sides, allowing it to create a beautiful swirl effect. This not only enhances the presentation of the Starbucks Santa Claus Frappe but also ensures every sip is packed with fruity goodness.

Step 4: Pour in the Frappuccino
Carefully pour the blended Vanilla Bean Frappuccino into the glass over the strawberry puree. Aim for a gentle pour to preserve the layers you created. Watch as the creamy mixture flows in, blending aesthetically with the vibrant strawberry, effectively capturing the essence of a festive treat in every layer.

Step 5: Add the Whipped Cream
Top your Starbucks Santa Claus Frappe generously with whipped cream. You can either dollop it on or use a piping bag for a more elegant presentation. This fluffy crown will provide a delightful texture contrast to the creamy base, creating an irresistible look that beckons you to dive in immediately.

Step 6: Sprinkle for Festivity
Finally, sprinkle a generous amount of Christmas sprinkles over the whipped cream. This adds a festive touch that captures the holiday spirit. The bright colors will make your drink visually appealing, ensuring it’s not just a treat for the taste buds but a feast for the eyes as well.

Step 7: Serve Immediately
Grab a festive straw and serve your Starbucks Santa Claus Frappe right away! Enjoy it while it’s fresh and cold for the best flavor experience. The combination of creamy vanilla and tangy strawberry will transport you to a winter wonderland, making every sip a celebration of holiday joy!

How to Store and Freeze Starbucks Santa Claus Frappe

Fridge: Store the assembled frappuccino in an airtight container for up to 1 day. However, the whipped cream may lose its texture, so it’s best to add that fresh just before serving.

Freezer: You can freeze the unblended Vanilla Bean Frappuccino base for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before blending again for that creamy texture.

Reheating: If you have leftover strawberry puree, keep it refrigerated and use within 3 days. You can serve the frappuccino with fresh puree for a delicious flavor boost!

Freshness Tip: For the ultimate experience, always prepare your Starbucks Santa Claus Frappe just before enjoying to savor its sweet, vibrant flavors and stunning presentation.

Make Ahead Options

The Starbucks Santa Claus Frappe is perfect for busy home cooks who love to prepare in advance! You can make the Vanilla Bean Frappuccino base and strawberry puree up to 24 hours ahead of time. Simply blend the frappuccino ingredients and store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The strawberry puree can also be prepared and refrigerated until you’re ready to assemble the drink. When you’re set to enjoy your festive treat, just layer the strawberry puree in a glass, pour in the chilled frappuccino, and top with whipped cream and sprinkles. This way, you’ll delight in a deliciously refreshing drink with minimal effort, allowing you to savor the holiday magic!

Starbucks Santa Claus Frappe Variations

Feel free to get creative with this festive drink to make it your own!

Berry Bonanza: Swap strawberry puree for raspberry or blueberry puree for a delicious twist on the seasonal flavor.
Minty Fresh: Add a dash of peppermint extract to the frappuccino base to give your drink a refreshing holiday kick.
Dairy-Free Delight: Use a dairy-free milk alternative like almond or oat milk to create a vegan-friendly version of the frappuccino.
Chocolatey Charm: Stir in a tablespoon of cocoa powder or blend in chocolate syrup for a chocolaty complement to the fruity flavor.
Extra Creamy: For a richer experience, replace some of the milk with heavy cream, making it even more decadent and indulgent.
Nutty Flavor: Add a splash of almond or hazelnut syrup to the frappuccino base, introducing a nutty depth that pairs wonderfully with the strawberry.
Spice It Up: Mix in a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor that evokes holiday comfort.

And for even more festive fun, don’t forget to check out the delightful Santa Claus Pretzel for a perfect pairing with your frappuccino! Enjoy experimenting and making this drink truly yours!

What to Serve with Starbucks Santa Claus Frappe?

Indulge in holiday cheer by creating a full meal that perfectly complements this delightful festive beverage.

Gingerbread Cookies: These spiced treats bring a warm, festive aroma and enhance the holiday spirit of your frappe.
Cheese Board: A selection of creamy Brie and tangy cheddar balances the sweetness of your frappuccino, providing a delightful contrast.
Buche de Noel: This French Yule log cake is a classic holiday dessert that pairs wonderfully with the strawberry notes of your drink.
Spicy Pumpkin Soup: The warmth and spice of the soup create a comforting backdrop to the refreshing sweetness of your Starbucks Santa Claus Frappe.
Cranberry-Orange Muffins: These bright, zesty muffins offer a perfect breakfast pairing, echoing the fruity flavors of your creamy drink.
Hot Cocoa: A rich, decadent hot chocolate provides a warm, nostalgic touch, enhancing the festive spirit of your gathering.
Sugar Plum Tart: This fruity tart adds a whimsical and elegant dessert option that harmonizes beautifully with your frappuccino’s flavors.
Christmas Punch: A refreshing fruit punch can cleanse the palate and keep the celebration vibrant, matching the festive theme of the frappuccino.
Vegan Brownies: For a sweet bite, these fudgy treats cater to various dietary preferences while pairing perfectly with your drink’s creamy texture.

Expert Tips for Starbucks Santa Claus Frappe

• Quality Ingredients: Use fresh strawberries for the puree to enhance the flavor of your Starbucks Santa Claus Frappe. Fresh fruit yields the best results!

• Blend Well: Ensure your frappuccino base is blended until completely smooth to avoid icy chunks. A good texture makes all the difference in your drink.

• Layering Technique: When adding strawberry puree, tilt your glass slightly. This allows for beautiful layers while pouring the frappuccino gently on top to maintain the visual appeal.

• Whipped Cream Touch: Consider using a piping bag for a more decorative whipped cream finish. This makes your frappuccino look extra special for festive gatherings.

• Keep It Fresh: For the best experience, assemble the drink shortly before serving. While components can be prepared in advance, freshness matters!

• Customize Freely: Don’t hesitate to explore different flavors—raspberry or blueberry puree can create a delightful twist on the classic Starbucks Santa Claus Frappe!

Starbucks Santa Claus Frappe Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best strawberries for the puree?
Absolutely! When selecting strawberries, look for firm, bright red berries with a fresh green leaf. Avoid those with dark spots or signs of bruising, as these may indicate overripeness. Fresh strawberries yield a more intense flavor, making your strawberry puree irresistible!

How should I store leftover Starbucks Santa Claus Frappe?
If you happen to have any leftovers, store your assembled frappuccino in an airtight container in the fridge for no more than 1 day. However, keep in mind that the whipped cream may lose its fluffy texture. For the best experience, add fresh whipped cream just before serving.

Can I freeze the Starbucks Santa Claus Frappe?
Yes! To freeze the Vanilla Bean Frappuccino base, pour it into an airtight container and store it for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight. After thawing, blend it again to restore its creamy texture. This is a great way to enjoy a festive treat anytime!

What dietary considerations should I keep in mind?
Very! If you’re catering to dietary needs, you can easily make this frappuccino vegan by using a dairy-free milk alternative and non-dairy whipped cream. Also, ensure that your sprinkles are free from allergens if serving to guests with food sensitivities. Always check ingredient labels when possible!

How can I troubleshoot if my frappuccino is too icy?
If your frappuccino ends up icy, it’s likely due to insufficient blending. Make sure you blend the ingredients until completely smooth, taking about 30 seconds. If it still feels icy, try using less ice in your next batch, or add a bit more milk to achieve a creamier consistency. The key is to avoid any icy chunks for that perfect milkshake feel!