What is a Starbucks Puppuccino? + A Bonus Homemade Recipe!
Puppuccino: the magic word that prompts excited barks and tail wags. You don’t have a dog-friendly Starbucks in your area? Or, you worry your dog is getting too attached to the barista? Make your own delicious puppuccino.
Starbucks puppuccino aka pup cup is a cup of dog-friendly whipped cream. Here’s how to make a pup cup of whipped cream for your furry friends.
What Is a Puppuccino?
A puppuccino or pup cup is an espresso cup filled with whipped cream. Pupuccino doesn’t have any tea, coffee, or caffeine — it’s 100% whipped cream. Although, in my experience, they sometimes give breve milk, a blend of steamed cream and milk called half-and-half, instead of whipped cream.
This dog treat is on Starbucks’ secret menu. It’s not available on the official menu, but all customers can order extra whip cream with their drink, and some Starbucks visitors are ordering this for their dogs.
Starbucks Puppuccino became extremely popular thanks to social media users sharing pics and videos of their dogs loving the Starbucks pup cup. It’s one of the most asked-for secret menu items, so next time you’re at Starbucks, get a treat for your four-legged friend too.
Now, if you want to make a pup cup for your furry friend at home, we made a healthy puppuccino recipe.
What’s in a Puppuccino? Ingredients and Other Things You’ll Need for A Pup Cup!
- 4 oz whipped cream
- Canned pumpkin puree (optional)
- A dollop of Greek yogurt (optional)
- Cinnamon (optional)
- Dog treat (optional)
- An empty espresso cup
At a Glance
Prep time:
5 minutes
Yield:
4 oz
How To Make a Puppuccino
Puppuccino belongs to some of the most popular Starbucks drinks but for dogs. Here’s how to make one your dog will love.
1. Fill a Small Cup With Whipped Cream
Many dogs are sensitive to lactose, so you don’t need a huge cup (1). A small one works great; just make sure the opening is large enough for your dog. Use about 4 oz of whipped cream from a can or whip your own, and fill the cup.
Pro tip 1: The key to a good puppuccino is finding quality whipped cream. You can make it yourself by whipping heavy cream or heavy whipping cream (which has less fat) until soft peaks form.
Pro tip 2: In case your furry friend has a sensitive stomach or is lactose intolerant, go for non-dairy whipped cream. Choose vegan whipped cream, such as coconut milk or oat. The best vegan options are dairy-free and low in sugar.
Pro tip 3: If you have a small dog, or your dog never tried a puppuccino before, start with a little whipped cream and see how the dog reacts to the special treat.
Pro tip 4: Try a pumpkin spice puppuccino. Pumpkin promotes digestion, which is great if your pup has tummy troubles (2). Cinnamon boosts immunity, so a pumpkin spice puppuccino is a healthy treat for most dogs (3). Use plain pumpkin puree because it doesn’t have additives.
Studies show that pumpkin is good for all sorts of digestive issues. It’s soothing on your dog’s system and easy to digest.
Pro tip 5: Pumpkin puppuccino is great for fall, but you can also make a treat for the hot summer months. While you enjoy your vanilla iced latte, make a dog frappuccino by blending Greek yogurt with different berries, bananas, and ice instead of pumpkin.
2. Top With a Dog Treat
Make the treat extra special for your four-legged friend by topping it with a small cookie. Plain and peanut butter cookies pair well with a cinnamon spice treat.
Pro tip 1: Go for low-fat cookies with natural ingredients if your doggo is on a diet.
Pro tip 2: Whipped cream can’t be left at room temperature for too long, so serve the treat immediately.
Final Thoughts
Puppuccino is a Starbucks secret menu item that many dogs love. Best of all, the puppuccino price is completely free. While this Starbucks dog treat is just whipped cream, you can make an even better treat for your cute dogs by following the recipe above. Experiment until you find out what your pet loves best.
We’d love to know if you enjoyed this recipe or have your own puppuccino variation. Let us know your tips and tricks in the comments below.
FAQ
Yes, puppuccinos are safe for dogs. Most dogs don’t digest lactose well, but whipped cream comprises a lot of air. A little whipped cream now and then should be completely safe for dogs. Still, puppuccino is meant to be an occasional, special treat and not given daily. It’s also always good to check with your vet because some dogs don’t tolerate dairy.
Yes, Starbucks puppuccinos are free. They are located on Starbucks’ secret menu. Ask for a puppuccino or a pup cup to order this treat. You need to order in person, as puppuccinos aren’t available online on the Starbucks app. You can get a puppuccino without buying anything, but it’s nice to at least leave a tip for the barista.
Yes, dogs can eat yogurt. Yogurt isn’t toxic to dogs. However, many dogs have trouble digesting yogurt because it has a lot of lactose, especially lactose-intolerant dogs. This is why dogs shouldn’t consume lactose-rich foods often; some should avoid it altogether. You can use a vegan yogurt, such as coconut or oat, instead.
References
- 3.Jul 23, A. B., Jul 23, 2018 | 2 M., & Minutes, 2018 | 2. (n.d.). Can Dogs Drink Milk? Is Milk Bad for Dogs? American Kennel Club. Retrieved from: https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/can-dogs-drink-milk/
- Why Pumpkin is Good for Dogs and Cats. (2019, June 3). The Vet Practice. Retrieved from: https://www.thevetpractice.com.au/blog/why-pumpkin-is-good-for-dogs-and-cats
- Can Dogs Eat Cinnamon? Benefits and How Much Is Too Much. (n.d.). The Honest Kitchen. Retrieved from: https://www.thehonestkitchen.com/blogs/pet-food-ingredients/is-cinnamon-safe-for-dogs
