How to Make Vegan Copycat Starbucks Cold Foam Using Aquafaba at Home

Starbucks fans who avoid dairy can now enjoy a vegan version of the popular cold foam by making it at home with aquafaba, the liquid from canned chickpeas. This easy recipe mimics the creamy texture and flavor of Starbucks’ cold foam without the dairy.

Make a Vegan Version of Starbucks Cold Foam at Home Using Aquafaba for a Dairy-Free Twist

Cold foam has become one of Starbucks' most popular add-ons, giving iced beverages a sweet, creamy finish and a velvety texture. First introduced at the Seattle Reserve Roastery in 2014, cold foam became available nationwide by April 2018 and has remained a favorite ever since. However, enjoying this trend might seem impossible for those who cannot consume dairy products. Thankfully, there’s a simple way to create a vegan version of Starbucks cold foam at home using an unexpected ingredient: aquafaba.

According to Tasting Table, aquafaba is the starchy liquid found in cans of chickpeas (also known as garbanzo beans). While commonly discarded, aquafaba is prized for its ability to be whipped into a foam that closely mimics meringue, whipped cream, and even Starbucks cold foam. Since aquafaba has a neutral taste, adding flavorings and sweeteners is essential to replicate Starbucks’ signature cold foam. When selecting chickpeas for this purpose, looking for kombu in the ingredient list is recommended. The carrageenan in kombu will naturally stabilize and thicken the aquafaba when whipped, eliminating the need for additional stabilizers like cream of tartar.

Create Your Own Vegan Starbucks Cold Foam at Home With Aquafaba and Custom Flavors

To create a vegan copycat of Starbucks cold foam at home, strain the aquafaba liquid from a can of unsalted chickpeas into a bowl and refrigerate it until chilled. Using a whisk or mixer, whip a few tablespoons of aquafaba with sugar and vanilla extract until the foam reaches the desired consistency. Adding a bit of cream of tartar or cornstarch can help thicken the foam if necessary. Add ingredients like matcha powder, cocoa, or cinnamon for a custom flavor.

With over a dozen Starbucks cold foam flavors, there are endless possibilities for flavor combinations. This accessible homemade version allows plenty of customization while offering a delicious, dairy-free option. Leftover aquafaba can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days or frozen for up to four months. However, whipped aquafaba should be enjoyed immediately, as its bubbles won’t hold over time.