Few store-bought drinks capture the bright, playful vibe of summer quite like Starbucks’ Pink Drink. This iced refresher, with its cheery color and creamy, fruity taste, has earned a permanent spot in the lineup of Instagram-famous favorites. But there’s good news: you can easily recreate this famous beverage at home, using simple ingredients—no espresso machine or fancy syrups required.
Let’s walk through everything you need to know about making your own Starbucks Pink Drink, from ingredients and techniques to smart tips, custom twists, and answers to the most common questions people have about this pink-hued treat.
What Makes the Pink Drink So Special?
At its core, the Pink Drink is all about flavor balance: lightly sweet, creamy coconut milk meets tangy fruit tea and bright strawberry accents. The result is refreshing without being overly sweet or heavy. It’s dairy-free, plant-based, and perfect for cooling off on a hot afternoon or serving at a sunny gathering.
You’ll find several ways to tweak the foundation here—each lends something new to the experience while staying true to the original’s signature taste and color.
Ingredients for the Starbucks Pink Drink
A handful of easy-to-find ingredients come together to create this vibrant drink. Here’s everything you’ll need:
Key Ingredients
| Ingredient | Why It Matters | Substitutions & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Passion Fruit Tea | Gives the drink its tangy flavor and pink shade (Tazo Passion recommended) | Hibiscus or any berry herbal tea work as alternatives |
| White Cranberry-Strawberry Juice | Adds fruity sweetness and supports the pink color | White grape juice + strawberry puree, or apple juice with a dash of cranberry |
| Unsweetened Coconut Milk | Creates a creamy texture and smooth finish | Almond, oat, or cashew milk for a change in flavor or creaminess |
| Freeze-Dried or Fresh Strawberries | Intensifies fruity taste and provides that Starbucks look | If not available, swap for a few slices of fresh or even frozen strawberries |
| Agave Nectar or Simple Syrup (optional) | Used for adjusting sweetness to taste | Honey (for non-vegan), stevia, or maple syrup as alternatives |
| Water | Used to brew the tea and mellow flavors | Filtered or bottled water preferred for best taste |
| Ice | Provides that crisp, cold refreshment | Nugget or cubed ice |
Why These Ingredients?
- Passion Fruit or Berry Tea infuses the drink with a gentle tartness and a lovely, natural pink hue.
- Fruit Juice brings body and flavor depth, lifting the berry notes.
- Coconut Milk creates a creamy mouthfeel without overpowering the drink’s fruitiness.
- Strawberries add both taste and visual appeal, making your drink Instagram-ready.
Choose the best brands and freshest fruits you can get for optimal results. If you have access to Tazo Passion Tea, that’s the closest match to Starbucks, but any strong berry or hibiscus tea will do in a pinch.
How to Make the Pink Drink: Step-by-Step
Set aside 10 minutes, and you’ll be sipping on a summery refreshment. This recipe yields two servings.
Step 1: Brew the Tea
- Add two tea bags to a large measuring cup.
- Pour in one cup of hot water (not boiling) over the tea.
- Let it steep for 5 minutes for strong flavor and color.
- Remove and discard tea bags. Let the tea cool; add a few ice cubes or refrigerate if short on time.
Step 2: Prep the Strawberries
- For freeze-dried strawberries: Break larger pieces into halves.
- For fresh strawberries: Rinse, hull, and slice thinly.
- A handful per glass gives you both taste and garnish.
Step 3: Mix the Base
- In a pitcher or large glass, combine the cooled tea with one cup of white cranberry-strawberry juice.
- Stir to blend.
Step 4: Assemble the Drink
- Fill two glasses with lots of ice. Nugget ice gives that Starbucks texture, but any cubes work.
- Divide the tea-juice mixture between the glasses.
Step 5: Add the Creaminess
- Slowly pour 1/2 cup of coconut milk into each glass.
- For that ombré effect, trickle the milk over the back of a spoon, letting it float on top before swirling in.
Step 6: Adjust Sweetness (Optional)
- Add agave nectar or simple syrup if you prefer a sweeter drink.
- Start with one teaspoon per glass, stir well, and taste.
- Add more as desired.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Toss in the strawberry slices or freeze-dried pieces.
- Give the drink a gentle stir.
- Add a straw and enjoy!
Tips for The Perfect Pink Drink
Experimenting with different versions and tweaks can help you find your perfect mix. Here are some of the best tried-and-true tricks:
- Strong Tea, Vibrant Color: Steep tea for the full 5 minutes to get the deepest pink and boldest flavor.
- Icy Cold from the Start: Chill your brewed tea, juice, and coconut milk before assembling. This keeps the ice from diluting the drink too quickly.
- Texture Upgrade: Nugget ice is the “secret ingredient” for that authentic Starbucks mouthfeel.
- Smooth Pour: For an elegant look, pour coconut milk slowly over a spoon for swirling color.
- Batch It: Double or triple the amounts and make a pitcher for a party or brunch.
- On-the-Go: Fill a reusable Starbucks cup (for the real café experience at home).
Creative Variations and Swaps
There’s no need to stop at the classic version. Here are a few ways to put your own spin on it, using whatever you have handy:
- Switch Up the Tea: Try hibiscus, raspberry, or peach herbal teas for different flavor notes.
- Make It Fizzy: Add a splash of sparkling water or club soda in place of some juice for a bubbly finish.
- Change the Cream: Plant-based milks like almond, oat, or cashew provide unique textures and flavors.
- Boost the Fruit: Add blueberries, blackberries, or even a dash of passion fruit puree.
- Add Fresh Herbs: A sprig of mint or basil cuts sweetness and gives a fragrant lift.
- Frozen Pink Drink: Blend all ingredients with ice for a slushy treat.
- Grown-Up Version: A measure of vodka, rum, or rosé transforms the drink into a light summer cocktail.
Troubleshooting Your Pink Drink
Sometimes, a homemade Pink Drink needs a quick fix. Here’s how to nail it every time:
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Not pink enough | Steep tea longer, add a splash of cranberry juice, or a touch of strawberry puree |
| Too sweet | Add more brewed tea or a splash of extra coconut milk |
| Too tart | Use less juice, more coconut milk, and optional sweetener |
| Watery | Reduce the ice in the glass, or chill liquids beforehand |
| Coconut milk separating | Stir well or give a quick shake before serving |
| Lacking flavor | Use double tea bags, or add real strawberry puree |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Starbucks Pink Drink?
It’s a creamy, cold Starbucks beverage built on fruit tea, coconut milk, and strawberries. Naturally sweet, a little tart, and totally refreshing. It’s part of the Refresher line.
Can I make Pink Drink caffeine-free?
Most passion or berry teas contain little to no caffeine, but always check labels—some blends sneak in green or black tea. For a completely caffeine-free drink, use herbal-only options.
How do I store or prep ahead?
Brew the tea and chill it up to 3 days ahead. Combine with juice and coconut milk right before serving. Assembled drinks are best enjoyed fresh; otherwise, the coconut milk may separate.
Can I omit the juice?
Yes. Use strong berry or hibiscus tea, a little extra sweetener, and strawberry puree in its place.
Is this drink suitable for vegans?
Yes. It uses plant-based milk and fruit. Just double-check your chosen sweetener if you’re avoiding honey.
What if I want to serve a crowd?
Multiply the recipe by how many servings you need. Assemble in a large pitcher, adding ice and strawberries last.
Pink Drink Recipe (Printable)
Servings: 2
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients:
– 2 Tazo Passion Tea bags (or herbal hibiscus-berry tea)
– 1 cup hot water
– 1 cup white cranberry-strawberry juice
– 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk (carton, not can)
– 1/2–1 cup ice
– 1/2 cup freeze-dried or fresh strawberries
– 2–3 tsp agave nectar or simple syrup (to taste)
Instructions:
1. Brew tea in hot water, steep 5 minutes, and cool.
2. Combine tea and juice in a pitcher.
3. Fill two glasses with ice. Pour in the tea-juice mixture.
4. Add coconut milk to each.
5. Stir in sweetener, to taste.
6. Garnish with strawberries. Stir and serve.
Try your homemade Pink Drink in your favorite cup and enjoy a bit of Starbucks magic right from your kitchen.
Starbucks Pink Drink
This copycat Starbucks Pink Drink is creamy and refreshing. It is packed with strawberry flavor. Even better, you can make it at home in minutes!
Ingredients
- 1/2-1 cup unsweetened coconut milk
- 2-4 teaspoons agave nectar or simple syrup, optional
- 1 cup Oceanspray White Cran-Strawberry Juice
- 1/2 cup freeze-dried or chopped strawberries
- 1 cup water
- 4 TAZO Passion Herbal tea bags
Instructions
- Place two tea bags into a large glass. Pour 1 cup of cold white grape juice over the top. Stir well. Set aside to steep.
- Place the other two tea bags into a separate large glass. Pour over 1 cup of cold water. Stir. Set aside to steep.
- After 3-5 minutes, the liquids should be pink. Remove the tea bags. Discard the tea bags.
- Fill two large glasses with ice. Divide the juice and water evenly between the glasses. Top each glass with your desired amount of coconut milk. Add the agave to taste.
- Finish with freeze-dried or fresh strawberries as garnish. Serve. Enjoy.