This Starbucks pink drink recipe creates the perfect copycat version of the popular strawberry refresher at home with just three simple ingredients. The homemade pink drink tastes exactly like the original but costs a fraction of the price and takes only 5 minutes to make.
The pink drink became a social media sensation when Starbucks added it to their official menu in 2017. This refreshing beverage combines strawberry acai flavors with creamy coconut milk and fresh strawberries. Making your own version means you can enjoy this Instagram-worthy drink anytime without leaving your kitchen.
What Makes This Pink Drink Recipe Special
Creating a copycat Starbucks drink at home offers several key advantages:
- Cost savings. Make multiple servings for the price of one Starbucks drink
- Ingredient control. Choose quality ingredients without artificial additives
- Convenience. No waiting in line or driving to the coffee shop
- Customization. Adjust sweetness and flavors to your exact preferences
- Quick preparation. Ready in just 5 minutes with minimal cleanup
This simplified version uses common grocery store items and produces the same light pink color and sweet-tart flavor profile as the original. You get authentic taste without the complexity or expense of other copycat methods.
Simple Pink Drink Ingredients
The beauty of this strawberry acai drink copycat lies in its simplicity. You need only three main ingredients to recreate this popular beverage:
- Fresh strawberries (1/2 cup, sliced). Provides natural fruit flavor and the pretty pink appearance
- White cranberry strawberry juice (2 cups). Ocean Spray brand works best for authentic taste
- Sweetened vanilla coconut milk (1 cup). Creates the creamy texture and dairy-free base
- Simple syrup (optional). Add 4 teaspoons for extra sweetness if desired
- Ice cubes. For serving and keeping the drink properly chilled
Fresh strawberries give the best flavor, but frozen or freeze-dried strawberries work in a pinch. The white cranberry juice blend is key to getting that perfect pink color without being too dark or overpowering.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this homemade pink drink requires no special equipment or advanced preparation skills. Follow these simple steps:
- Prepare the strawberries. Slice fresh strawberries and place them in a pitcher
- Muddle gently. Use a muddler to release juices without completely crushing the berries
- Add liquids. Pour in the white cranberry strawberry juice and coconut milk
- Sweeten if desired. Include simple syrup for extra sweetness
- Mix thoroughly. Stir all ingredients until well blended
- Serve over ice. Pour into tall glasses filled with ice cubes
- Garnish. Add fresh strawberry slices for presentation
The mixture should have a beautiful light pink color from the strawberries and juice. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Helpful Tips for the Perfect Pink Drink
Getting your copycat pink drink just right involves following these essential tips:
- Use Ocean Spray juice. This brand provides the most authentic flavor and color
- Start with less sweetness. Taste before adding simple syrup since coconut milk adds natural sweetness
- Muddle gently. Light pressure releases flavor without creating chunky texture
- Serve immediately. Fresh preparation keeps flavors bright and texture smooth
- Chill ingredients. Cold juice and milk create a more refreshing drink
- Choose ripe strawberries. Fresh, sweet berries provide the best flavor and color
These simple guidelines ensure your homemade version matches the quality and taste of the Starbucks original.
Popular Variations and Substitutions
This basic pink drink recipe accepts several modifications to suit different preferences:
1. Milk alternatives:
- Vanilla almond milk for nutty flavor
- Oat milk for creamy texture
- Coconut cream for richer taste
- Regular coconut milk for lighter consistency
2. Juice options:
- Cranberry raspberry juice as closest substitute
- White grape juice mixed with strawberry juice
- Pure cranberry juice diluted with water
3. Natural sweeteners:
- Honey for floral sweetness
- Agave nectar for neutral flavor
- Maple syrup for deeper taste
- Stevia for zero-calorie option
4. Berry variations:
- Fresh raspberries for tartness
- Mixed berries for complex flavor
- Frozen strawberries when fresh unavailable
Each substitution creates a slightly different flavor profile while maintaining the drink’s signature appeal.
Nutritional Benefits and Considerations
This homemade strawberry refresher offers several health advantages over typical coffee shop beverages:
Nutritional benefits:
- Real fruit provides vitamin C and antioxidants
- Dairy-free base suitable for lactose intolerant individuals
- Lower sugar content than many coffee shop alternatives
- Natural ingredients without artificial preservatives
- Coconut milk provides healthy fats
Per serving breakdown:
- Approximately 388 calories
- 47g carbohydrates
- 4g protein
- 25g fat
- Good source of potassium and vitamin C
The homemade version lets you control sweetness levels and ingredient quality for a healthier alternative to store-bought options.
Making Pink Drinks for Groups
This recipe easily scales up for parties or family gatherings. Here’s how to serve crowds:
1. Scaling guidelines:
- Double recipe serves 4 people
- Triple recipe serves 6 people
- Quadruple recipe serves 8 people
- Maintain ingredient ratios for consistent taste
2. Batch preparation tips:
- Mix ingredients up to 24 hours in advance
- Store covered in refrigerator
- Stir well before serving
- Add ice just before serving to prevent dilution
- Prepare extra strawberry slices for garnish
3. Serving suggestions:
- Use large pitchers or beverage dispensers
- Provide ice buckets for self-serving
- Set out extra strawberries for garnish
- Offer simple syrup on the side for individual sweetening
Large batch preparation makes this perfect for summer entertaining, birthday parties, or any special occasion.
Final Thoughts
This easy Starbucks pink drink recipe proves that popular coffee shop beverages can be recreated at home with simple ingredients and minimal effort.
The three-ingredient formula produces authentic taste and appearance while saving money and time.
Whether you’re craving a refreshing afternoon treat or planning drinks for a group, this copycat version delivers the same satisfaction as the original.
Easy Starbucks Pink Drink
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a pitcher, add 1/2 cup sliced fresh strawberries. Very gently crush the strawberries using a muddler. The goal is to release some of the juices without completely smashing them – the slices should still be intact.
- Add 2 cups white cran-strawberry juice, 1 cup sweetened vanilla coconut milk, and 4 teaspoons simple syrup (if using). Stir to combine all ingredients well.
- Pour the pink drink mixture over ice in tall glasses. Add additional strawberry slices for garnish if desired. Serve immediately for best taste and texture.
Notes
- Strawberries: Fresh strawberries give the best flavor, but frozen (thawed) or freeze-dried strawberries work if needed.
- Juice substitute: If Ocean Spray White Cran-Strawberry is unavailable, cran-raspberry juice works great too.
- Milk alternatives: Vanilla almond milk, oat milk, or coconut cream can substitute the coconut milk.
- Make it sweeter: Add simple syrup to taste, or macerate sliced strawberries with sugar before adding.