If you’re a Starbucks fan who can’t resist the fall flavors, you’re in for a treat! Starbucks recently made an exciting announcement about a popular seasonal item that is now available year-round.
The beloved Baked Apple Croissant, once considered part of the limited-time fall menu, has officially been added to the permanent Starbucks lineup.
This delicious pastry is here to stay, and it’s the latest item to be added permanently since early 2024 when Starbucks introduced the Iced Shaken Hazelnut Oat Milk Espresso as a staple drink.
What Makes the Baked Apple Croissant So Popular?
The Baked Apple Croissant has quickly become a favorite thanks to its warm, comforting flavors and flaky, buttery layers. This pastry combines the best of fall and holiday baking with layers of croissant dough wrapped around a decadent apple pie filling and topped with a sweet, crunchy topping.
The combination of buttery, flaky pastry with a gooey apple filling makes it the perfect treat for any season, not just fall.
While apple pie is a staple for Thanksgiving and chilly winter nights, it’s also an excellent choice for other times, like summer cookouts or spring gatherings. With the Baked Apple Croissant on Starbucks’ permanent menu, you can indulge in that warm, sweet apple flavor whenever you’re in the mood.
The Inspiration Behind Making It a Permanent Menu Item
The decision to keep the Baked Apple Croissant on the Starbucks menu came after countless fan requests and high demand. Baristas and customers alike have noticed that this croissant often sells out before the end of the breakfast rush.
Some Starbucks locations even reported a shortage due to its popularity! Many coffee drinkers who ordered ahead on the Starbucks app were disappointed to see it listed as “sold out.”
Starbucks listened to the fans and made this delicious treat available year-round. The chain’s new CEO has also highlighted a renewed focus on Starbucks’ core offerings, prioritizing quality over discounts.
Adding the Baked Apple Croissant to the permanent menu aligns with his goal of enhancing Starbucks’ bakery lineup and satisfying customer cravings for unique, flavorful items.
A New Favorite in Starbucks’ Bakery Selection
Since introducing the Baked Apple Croissant, Starbucks has seen its popularity soar. Many customers have made it a part of their regular order, pairing it with their favorite coffee or seasonal beverage. This croissant is ideal for those who prefer a breakfast treat that feels indulgent but not overly sweet.
Here’s why the Baked Apple Croissant is such a standout in Starbucks’ bakery case:
- Perfectly Flaky Pastry: The croissant dough is layered and buttery, creating a soft, flaky texture that melts in your mouth.
- Sweet Apple Filling: The warm apple filling is reminiscent of homemade apple pie, bringing comfort with each bite.
- Sugary Topping: The light sugar topping adds a bit of crunch and sweetness, rounding out the flavors beautifully.
How the Baked Apple Croissant Fits with Starbucks’ New Vision
The decision to make this pastry permanent is about more than just meeting fan demand. It also aligns with Starbucks’ shift under new leadership to emphasize quality menu options over frequent discounts.
While Starbucks is known for its seasonal offerings, the addition of the Baked Apple Croissant represents a move to bring high-quality, crowd-pleasing items to customers every day, regardless of the season.
In an Instagram announcement, Starbucks hinted that this croissant’s popularity was more than a seasonal trend. Fans of the pastry have made it clear they want it year-round, and Starbucks responded.
This addition to the permanent menu may be one of the first signs of the new CEO’s commitment to creating an elevated coffeehouse experience for customers.
Why Fans Love Apple Flavors Beyond Fall
Apple is a flavor that brings warmth and nostalgia, often associated with fall, but it’s versatile enough to enjoy year-round.
Apple pie, in particular, has long been a favorite in American cuisine, and its flavors are welcome at holiday dinners, family picnics, and casual gatherings. Here are a few reasons why apple-based pastries have a year-round appeal:
- Universal Comfort Food: Apples and cinnamon are classic comfort flavors many associate with family and warmth.
- A Versatile Treat: Whether for breakfast, a mid-day snack, or an evening dessert, apple pastries are satisfying and delicious at any time.
- Nostalgia and Tradition: For many, apple-flavored desserts evoke memories of home-cooked meals, holidays, and special occasions.
What to Pair with the Baked Apple Croissant
To fully enjoy the Baked Apple Croissant experience, pair it with one of Starbucks’ coffee offerings. Here are a few suggestions to bring out the best in this pastry:
- Americano or Black Coffee: The robust flavor of a simple Americano or black coffee balances the sweetness of the croissant, allowing the apple flavors to shine.
- Chai Tea Latte: The warm spices in a chai latte complement the cinnamon notes in the apple filling, creating a cozy combination.
- Iced Hazelnut Oat Milk Espresso: If you’re in the mood for something cold, the nutty flavor of this espresso drink pairs well with the buttery croissant.
How to Order the Baked Apple Croissant
Since its addition to the Starbucks menu, the Baked Apple Croissant has quickly become one of the most popular items to order on the app.
For the best experience, check its availability on the Starbucks app before you visit, as it may still sell out quickly due to high demand. Whether picking it up with your morning coffee or treating yourself in the afternoon, this croissant is worth the hype.
If you have yet to try it, now’s your chance to see all the buzz. And if you’re already a fan, you can add it to your year-round rotation of Starbucks favorites.
Conclusion
The permanent addition of the Baked Apple Croissant is a sign that Starbucks is listening to its customers and delivering what they want. This croissant is more than just a seasonal treat; it’s a delicious pastry with classic, comforting flavors that make it ideal for any time of year.
Whether you’re craving it on a chilly winter morning or a sunny summer day, Starbucks has ensured that this pastry will satisfy your sweet tooth.
With this move, Starbucks keeps its coffeehouse experience fresh, enjoyable, and responsive to what fans love.
So, next time you’re at Starbucks, don’t hesitate to grab a Baked Apple Croissant to go with your coffee—no matter the season.
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