The Substitutes To Turn Down The Richness In Starbucks' Mocha Cookie Crumble Frappuccino

The Starbucks Mocha Cookie Crumble is one of the most iconic Frappuccinos on the coffee chain's menu. Essentially dessert in a cup, this beverage is the perfect reward for a long day's work, or just a refreshing treat on a hot day. The whipped cream, mocha drizzle, cookie crumble topping, and three pumps of mocha sauce are the main ingredients responsible for the Mocha Cookie Crumble Frappuccino's distinct, chocolatey richness. Yet this list also secures the beverage's less-vaunted place on our list of the unhealthiest Starbucks drinks. 

These ingredients pack a powerful punch of flavor that is like a magnet for some Starbucks fans, but others may find the richness of these ingredients and this beverage's whole milk base too much. If you are a part of the latter group of caffeine lovers, worry not! We have just the fix to check the richness of this beverage: only get one or two pumps of mocha sauce and swap out the whipped cream and cookie crumbles for a splash of sweet cream. And don't worry, you won't annoy your barista when you ask for this, so long as you're polite and don't ask for complex substitutions during an ordering rush.

To many minds, requesting a dialed-back pump or two of mocha sauce takes the Mocha Cookie Crumble from chocolate overload to a well-balanced masterpiece. When the star flavor takes a step back from the spotlight, it is easier to appreciate the Frappuccino Roast and Chip flavors that are layered within the drink. When you pass on the cookie crumble, the splash of sweet cream adds a similar creamy richness while bolstering the overall texture and thickness of the Frappuccino, crafting a version of the beverage that is perhaps more fuel than outright dessert. 

The Mocha Cookie Crumble is uniquely irresistible, as the bits of cookie perfectly break up the smooth, icy texture of the Frappuccino blend. Plus, that neat swirl of whipped cream serves as the cherry on top. While swapping this Frappuccino for a chocolatey iced coffee is certainly the healthier move, the unique experience of sipping on a Frappuccino on a hot day is hard to replace. Luckily, you can easily chase this experience in your own kitchen by giving a bottled Starbucks Frappuccino the frozen upgrade it deserves.