If you want to begin your morning with excitement and try something thick and rich from Starbucks instead of your usual coffee, consider giving their Half and Half a shot.
However, you might be curious about this blend before going for it.
Half and Half at Starbucks is a blend of half portion whole milk and half portion light cream. The mixture is called “Breve,” You can customize all the beverages.
The usual Starbucks coffee is made with steamed milk only unless you ask to add “Breve.”
This blend adds extra creaminess, flavor, and a velvety touch to your coffee drink without making it too dark or bitter.
Below, we’ll discuss what Half and Half at Starbucks is and how you can customize your favorite beverages with it.
The Concept Behind Half and Half Blend at Starbucks
Starbucks has become one of the largest coffeehouse chains in the world, with thousands of locations across the globe.
The company offers many beverages, including lattes, cappuccinos, iced coffee, snacks, and light bites.
Starbucks began offering Half and Half, also known as “Breve,” back in the day, and since then, it has been a popular add-on for many coffee lovers for decades.
Half and Half is a blend of half a portion of whole milk and half a portion of light cream in equal quantities.
You can ask the barista to customize your beverage with Half and Half to make it more satisfying and mouthwatering.
However, if you don’t specify the barista, you will get a usual beverage with only steamed milk.
Half and Half at Starbucks contain approximately 30 calories, 2.5 grams of fat, and 2 grams of carbohydrates for every 15ml.
Starbucks Half and Half vs. Starbucks Heavy Cream
At Starbucks, Half and Half mixture and heavy cream are used interchangeably in beverages, and people often assume them the same.
However, there are many differences between them, as mentioned below:
1. Taste Profile and Fat Contents
The taste of heavy cream and Half and Half at Starbucks vary due to their differing fat contents.
Heavy cream has a very rich and creamy taste due to 36-40% fat content and adds a luxurious and indulgent quality to any drink it is added to.
On the other hand, Half and Half have a much lower fat content, i,e., 10-18%, which means that its flavor is lighter and less intense.
The best part about this blend from Starbucks is that it doesn’t overpower the flavors of the source drinks.
However, heavy cream can leave a lingering oily or greasy sensation in the mouth, which can be very unappealing to some people.
Consuming large amounts of fat can contribute to weight gain and other health issues.
2. Calories
Heavy cream is a high-calorie food due to its high fat content. One tablespoon contains approximately 50-60 calories at Starbucks.
In contrast, Half and Half has a lower calorie content than heavy cream. One tablespoon typically contains around 20-30 calories, making it a better option in terms of health.
People consuming high-calorie food daily can suffer from obesity, Type 2 Diabetes, dementia, osteoarthritis, cognitive decline, and brain shrinkage.
3. Preference and Dietary Needs
The choice between heavy cream and Half and Half at Starbucks ultimately comes down to personal preference and dietary needs.
Heavy cream is best suited for a richer, creamier taste and texture in coffee or other beverages.
Moreover, it is also a good option if you follow a strict diet, such as keto, as it provides a good source of healthy fats that is low in carbs.
While Half and Half is perfect for a lighter taste and texture, the blend also works immensely if you monitor your calorie intake closely while maintaining weight.
Heavy cream and Half and Half are high in saturated fat and calories; you should consume them in moderation.
Conclusion
In this article, we’ve discussed Half and Half at Starbucks and cleared the misconception that it’s similar to the heavy cream option.
We hope this information helps you decide whether to customize your Starbucks drink with Half and Half or something else.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Starbucks Drinks Are Best Suited for Half and Half Customization?
You can ask the barista to add Half and Half to various Starbucks drinks to provide a richer and creamier flavor. Some of the best-suited Starbucks drinks for Half and Half customization include:
- Coffee-based drinks, such as lattes, cappuccinos, and Americanos
- Hot tea, such as chai or black tea
- Hot chocolate or mocha drinks
- Cold brew or iced coffee drinks
- Frappuccinos or blended beverages
Is Half and Half Blend at Starbucks Safe for Lactose-Intolerant Individuals?
Half and Half blend comprises half part whole milk and half part light cream and contains lactose, a type of sugar found in milk.
Therefore, it’s unsafe for lactose intolerant, as their bodies have difficulty digesting it, leading to symptoms like bloating, gas, diarrhea, and stomach pain in lactose-intolerant individuals.
How Much Does It Cost To Add Half and Half to a Starbucks Drink?
The cost of adding Half and Half to a Starbucks drink can vary depending on the drink’s size and the store’s location. Adding it will cost an additional $0.80 to $1.00 per shot.
Does Half and Half at Starbucks Contain Any Additives or Preservatives?
Half and Half at Starbucks typically does not contain additives or preservatives, as it combines whole milk and light cream, both natural dairy products.
Is Half and Half a Common Add-On at Starbucks?
Yes, Half and Half is a common add-on at Starbucks and is mostly available at all of their locations worldwide.
