I vividly remember the first time I sipped on a Starbucks Pink Drink. It was a warm summer afternoon, and the sun was shining down warmly on my face as I sat on the patio of my favorite cafe with friends. The moment that luscious pink liquid hit my taste buds, a burst of sweetness and refreshing coconut flavor swept through me. I couldn’t help but feel a wave of calm wash over me, reminding me of carefree summer days spent with loved ones. Since that delightful moment, I've been eager to recreate this pink-hued drink at home and share that joy with others. That’s why I’m thrilled to bring you an easy, homemade version of the Starbucks Pink Drink, perfect for those warm afternoons or to simply brighten your day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy prep: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have this wonderful drink ready to serve in no time!
- Family favorite: This vibrant drink is sure to please everyone, from kids to grandparents, making it a hit at gatherings.
- Deliciously comforting: The blend of coconut milk and cran-strawberry juice creates a comforting flavor reminiscent of summer vacations.
- Budget-friendly: Save money by making this Starbucks-inspired drink at home instead of visiting the café!
Ingredients
To create this delightful Starbucks Pink Drink that warms the heart, you’ll need:
- Fresh strawberries (they bring a vibrant color and juicy sweetness)
- Ocean Spray White Cran-Strawberry Juice (the base of our drink, adding a fruity and tangy kick)
- Sweetened vanilla coconut milk (to provide that creamy and cozy touch)
- Simple syrup (optional, for those who prefer an extra sweet treat)
- Small ice cubes (to keep your drink perfectly chilled)
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
I promise, making your own Starbucks Pink Drink at home is a breeze! Here’s how to do it:
- In a cozy pitcher, add your beautifully sliced strawberries. Using a muddler (or even the back of a spoon if you don’t have one), gently crush the strawberries to release their lovely juices — but no need to pulverize them into mush!
- Next, pour in your Ocean Spray White Cran-Strawberry Juice. Watch the gorgeous pink color swirl as you add it!
- Now, it’s time for the sweetened vanilla coconut milk. Combine it with the juice and strawberries, giving it a good stir to blend everything harmoniously.
- If you prefer a touch more sweetness, don’t hesitate to add the simple syrup. Give it another gentle stir.
- Pour your delectable drink over a glass filled with small ice cubes and don’t forget to garnish it with a few extra strawberry slices on top for that wow factor!
Pro Tips for Making This Recipe
- For a richer flavor, let the muddled strawberries sit for a few minutes before mixing. This allows their essence to really permeate the drink.
- If you’re looking for an extra refreshing version, consider freezing some strawberry slices in advance to use instead of ice cubes.
- Don’t go overboard on the crushing — you want the strawberries to remain chunky for a beautiful presentation!
How to Serve
This Starbucks Pink Drink is perfect for a warm afternoon on the patio, but it can also be a delightful addition to special occasions. Here are a few serving ideas:
- Perfect pairing: Serve it alongside a light fruit salad or some crispy coconut macaroons for a sweet treat!
- Occasion-based suggestions: This drink is fabulous for bridal showers, summer barbecues, or even just a relaxing brunch with friends.
- Garnish: Add a few mint leaves for a pop of green and an extra aromatic touch!
Make Ahead and Storage
One of the best parts about this recipe is that it can be prepped ahead of time! Here are some tips:
- You can make this drink a few hours in advance. However, it’s best consumed fresh, particularly if you love that chill from the ice.
- If you have leftovers, keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to a day. Just note that the flavors will meld together, which can be lovely, but the texture might change slightly.
- I wouldn’t recommend freezing this drink as the coconut milk may separate after thawing.
FAQ
Can I make this gluten-free? Absolutely! All the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free.
What if I don’t have sweetened vanilla coconut milk? No worries! You can use almond milk or regular milk, but consider adding a splash of vanilla extract for that same lovely sweet flavor.
Can I use an air fryer or slow cooker instead? As this drink is a refreshing beverage, it doesn’t require cooking, but you could experiment with infusing the strawberries beforehand if you’d like some extra flavor!
I hope this recipe helps you recreate those beautiful moments at your favorite café right from the comfort of your own home. I can’t wait for you to try it! Let me know how your Starbucks Pink Drink turns out — I’d love to hear your stories and variations!
Starbucks Pink Drink
Ingredients
- ½ cup Fresh Strawberries stemmed and sliced
- 2 cups Oceanspray White Cran-Strawberry Juice
- 1 cup sweetened vanilla coconut milk
- 4 teaspoons simple syrup optional, for added sweetness
- Ice small cubes
Instructions
- In a pitcher, gently crush the strawberries with a muddler.
- Add cran-strawberry juice, coconut milk, and simple syrup; stir to combine.
- Pour over ice in glasses and add extra strawberry slices for garnish, if desired.