The Unicorn Frappuccino Is An Affordable Treat

Tales of a magical new beverage have been sweeping the interwebs, and while its namesake creature is mythical, it turns out the Unicorn Frappuccino is very much a reality — and what's even better? Getting a taste of this mystical phenomenon won't break the bank. So how much does the Unicorn Frappuccino cost, actually? This sweet, colorful fuel can be yours for just under $5. Self-care may be many things, but pricey doesn't have to be one of them.

The mighty 'Bucks announced the drink's arrival on Tuesday, putting an end to the many rumors of its veracity that have been floating around social media for the past few days: Starting Wednesday, April 19, the colorful blended crème beverage will be available at participating Starbucks locations throughout the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Price-wise, a 12-ounce, tall Unicorn Frappuccino ranges from $4.25 to $4.95, depending on the market you're in, which means getting your hands on 12 ounces of pure Instagram gold is surprisingly affordable — especially considering the hype surrounding this limited-release drink. And I do mean limited; you've only got until April 23 to taste the magic for yourself.

The unicorn fad shows no sign of slowing down, and Starbucks' latest creation pays homage to the glittery, rainbow-colored trend with a surprisingly vibrant offering. The eye-catching drink is made with a base of crème Frappuccino blended with mango syrup. This means that unlike coffee-based Frapps, the Unicorn version has zero milligrams of caffeine. But while the colorful beverage will not put a caffeinated pep in your step, the bright flavors of this chilled drink will likely perk you up anyway; personally, I suspect the treat is best suited for a pleasant after-work pick-me-up or a Saturday stroll through the park on a warm spring day.

The drink's initial purple color is layered with swirls of sour blue drizzle — and honestly, I think it's the coolest layering that Starbucks has achieved thus far, including the "secret menu" two-toned ombre drinks customers have hacked their order to get. In this form, the drink tastes "sweet and fruity," according to a press release.

But the fun doesn't stop there: The beverage goes one step further, making all your childhood dreams come true by changing in both color and flavor as you drink it! When you stir the drink, it (seemingly) magically it turns pink, while the taste morphs into something "tangy and tart." I know, I know, I'm freaking out harder than if someone told me I was about to get slimed in the '90s.

The whole thing is finished with a dollop of vanilla whipped cream and shimmering sweet pink and sour blue sprinkles, allowing you to enjoy the sour-then-sweet interplay till the very last sip.

The Unicorn Frappuccino will be available through Sunday, April 23, while supplies lasts, so be sure to give it a try this weekend before it disappears forever and we all cry big, magical, unicorn tears. Unicorns might not be real, but at least for a brief shining moment, we can taste their magic.