Cheaper Starbucks

There aren't many people that don't like Starbucks. Coffee and a great atmosphere can't easily be passed up. And let's face it, it's everywhere. In a five mile radius from where I live, there are at least 10 Starbucks according to Google Maps. And in fact there is one about 200 yards from my apartment. So, it becomes a great place to read my Bible and hang out with my friends.

But there is a down side to Starbucks (and to almost every coffee shop). It's expensive and we just can't afford a large coffee budget.

There are a few ways around this.

1. Get the house brew. A great option and probably my husbands favorite. Plus if you are a Starbucks Gold member (which we are) you get free refills. This option is also available in an iced version which is nice for the blazing summers here in Phoenix. I surely don't want a hot beverage when it's 108 degrees outside.

2. Get an Americano (espresso and water). One of the cheapest espresso drinks and also available iced.

But what if I want something a little more substantial? Like an iced mocha, which is my favorite. Well, a Grande Iced Mocha at Starbucks is about $4.35 + tax. Those can start to add up fairly quickly with how much I go to coffee shops through out the month.

So, I figured out a way to make my favorite drink cheaper. I just bring my own milk.

Before I head over to Starbuck, I fill a canteen with some milk from home (which I already get on sale at the grocery store for $1.57/gallon most weeks). Then I order 2 shots of espresso, on ice, with 2 pumps mocha in a Venti cup.

        

And then I add my milk.

Voila! A Venti Iced Mocha.

How much does it cost me??

$2.78

I think that's one awesome deal! Obviously, this only works for iced espresso beverages. 

But I am totally happy with that.