starbucks pink drink recipe

      When I’m not in the mood for coffee, you’ll probably find me sipping on a Starbucks Pink Drink. The strawberry açaí refresher has been a popular favorite for years now, and I’ve definitely joined the fan club.

The good news? You can easily recreate this drink at home. After some experimenting, I’ve nailed a version that uses just three simple ingredients. It’s budget-friendly, quick to make, and tastes just as good as the original. 

While there are plenty of copycat recipes floating around, many of which call for powdered refreshers or steeped tea, I find those methods to be more expensive and a bit of a hassle for similar results. This homemade version is lightly sweet, not overly sugary, and incredibly refreshing.

What is the pink Starbucks drink?

     The Pink Drink became a Starbucks sensation back in 2016 and has stayed popular ever since. It’s part of their Refreshers lineup, known for its vibrant color and fruity, tropical flavor. The drink mixes a strawberry açaí base with coconut milk and real strawberry slices.

What’s in the Starbucks pink drink?

Starbucks crafts the original Pink Drink using a strawberry açaí base, Tazo tea, coconut milk, and a handful of other ingredients.

This simplified homemade version captures the same delicious flavor using just three main components. (You can scroll down to the recipe card for exact measurements.)

• Strawberries : You can use fresh strawberries, freeze-dried ones, or even a combo of both.
• White Cran-Strawberry Juice : This juice gives the drink its signature fruity flavor. If you can’t find it, white cran-raspberry is a great substitute.
• Sweetened Vanilla Coconut Milk : This keeps the drink dairy-free and adds a bit of sweetness. You can also use canned coconut milk or coconut cream if you want a creamier texture.
• Simple Syrup (Optional) : For a sweeter version, feel free to add a splash.
• Ice Cubes : For that chilled, café-style experience.

How to make the Starbucks pink drink

Recreating this fan-favorite drink at home is super simple!
(Exact measurements can be found down there in the recipe card below.)

1. Muddle the strawberries : Mash the strawberries using a muddler in your glass. If you’re making a larger batch, it’s better to use a pitcher instead.
2. Mix it all together : Pour in the other ingredients and give it a good stir until everything is well combined.
3. Serve and enjoy : Fill a glass with ice, pour the drink over it, and top with extra strawberry slices if you like.

Tips and FAQs

Before you whip up Starbucks Pink Drink recipe, here are a few handy tips and answers to common questions that might come up:

• Want it sweeter?
  

  If you prefer your drinks on the sweeter side, feel free to add a little extra simple syrup to taste.

• Go easy on the strawberries.
  

  When muddling, you’re just looking to release some juice, not completely mash them. You still want the slices to be mostly whole for that signature look and texture.

• Is Starbucks’ Pink Drink considered healthy?
  

  Compared to many other Starbucks beverages, the Pink Drink is a lighter option. It’s not overloaded with sugar or calories like some of the blended drinks or dessert-style options.

• Is this drink kid-friendly?
  

  Definitely! This homemade version is perfect for kids, especially since it’s caffeine-free. (The Starbucks original does contain a bit of caffeine.)

Can I make a big batch for guests?
You sure can! Just double or triple the ingredients based on how many servings you need. You can prep everything in a pitcher a few hours ahead and store it in the fridge. Give it a good stir before pouring over ice to serve.