Mocktails and More: QSRs Gear Up for Winter With Drink Innovations

Sonic, Dunkin’, Caribou Coffee and more recently launched new seasonal menu items.

November 04, 2024

Sonic Drive-In is taking on the viral dirty soda trend this winter by releasing two seasonal sips in its Flavorista Favorites lineup. The two creations include the Buttery Brew: “root beer swirls with buttery caramel and silky sweet cream,” and the Sparkling Sugar Cookie Dr Pepper: “blending Dr Pepper with hints of caramel and sugar cookie, all topped with a layer of sweet cream,” described Sonic.

Peet’s Coffee launched a mocktail lineup for the holidays. The Sparkling Tiger's Eye features blood orange purée, cold brew, and is topped with Q Club Soda and Hella Orange Bitters. The Bestie includes blood orange purée with chai-spiced black tea and Hella Orange Bitters. The Derby has flavors of bourbon and espresso, similar to an Irish Coffee.

"Peet's is excited to meet evolving consumer preferences with our new, vibrant collection of mocktails," said Jessica Buttimer, SVP of brand. "Whether you're celebrating big or enjoying a cozy moment, our menu has something to brighten everyone's holiday season."

Caribou Coffee is zeroing in on cranberry as its flavor of the season. “The Cranberry Energy with coconut milk cold foam offers a refreshing boost with tart cranberry flavors, complemented by the creamy texture of non-dairy coconut milk cold foam. For a bolder option, the Cranberry Dark Chocolate Espresso Shaker features rich espresso combined with dark chocolate and cranberry, offering a unique and indulgent holiday twist,” according to a press release.

Dutch Bros is launching holiday beverages including the Hazelnut Truffle Mocha, a hazelnut mocha topped with Soft Top and caramel drizzle. Its Candy Cane Mocha is a peppermint mocha and Soft Top covered with candy cane sprinkles. The Winter Shimmer Rebel is a Rebel energy drink with blended blue raspberry and sweet cream with Soft Top and shimmer sprinkles on top.

Dunkin’ launched a brand-new drink this season, the Holiday Cookie Signature Latte, available hot or iced. The new latte “boasts rich espresso blended with whole milk and notes of buttery cookie and toasted almond. It’s finished with a swirl of whipped cream, drizzle of caramel and cookie butter crumbles for a sweet crunch,” according to a press release.

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