Starbucks Refreshers blend real fruit juice with green coffee extract and cooling ice, offering a vibrant, lightly caffeinated beverage bursting with natural berry flavors and a refreshing, crisp finish.
Equipments
- Blender
- Ice scoop
- Measuring cup
- Shaker
- Tongs
- Tall glass or cold cup
- Straw
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup white grape juice
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon freeze-dried green coffee extract powder
- 1/4 cup freeze-dried mixed berries (strawberries, blackberries, raspberries)
- 1 tablespoon simple syrup
- 1/4 cup sliced fresh strawberries
- 1/2 cup ice
Ensure you use freeze-dried green coffee extract powder to achieve the signature light caffeine boost in your Starbucks Refreshers. Fresh strawberries should be sliced thinly to blend well and enhance the natural berry flavor profile. Measure the white grape juice precisely to maintain the right balance of sweetness and tartness. Use a shaker and ice scoop to mix and chill the beverage thoroughly for a refreshing, crisp finish. Your homemade Refreshers from the Starbucks copycat menu will capture the vibrant taste and invigorating quality of the original drink.
Instructions
- Add 1/2 cup white grape juice, 1/4 cup water, and 1 tablespoon freeze-dried green coffee extract powder to blender.
- Blend until powder is fully dissolved.
- Add 1/4 cup freeze-dried mixed berries and 1 tablespoon simple syrup.
- Blend until smooth.
- Scoop 1/2 cup ice and transfer to shaker.
- Pour blended mixture over ice in shaker.
- Add 1/4 cup sliced fresh strawberries.
- Close shaker and shake vigorously until well chilled.
- Use tongs to place additional ice into tall glass or cold cup, if desired.
- Strain and pour refresher mixture into prepared glass.
- Insert straw and serve immediately.
Substitution
Starbucks Refreshers copycat recipes often call for freeze-dried green coffee extract powder, but if you can't source it, consider using a mild green tea extract or matcha powder as a lower-caffeine alternative that still provides a subtle earthy note. White grape juice is key for its natural sweetness, but you can substitute with pear or apple juice if needed, to maintain a similar light flavor profile. When blending, ensure the ice quantity is adjusted based on the consistency you prefer for your drink; too much ice can dilute the flavors, while too little can make it less refreshing. Your simple syrup can be replaced with honey or agave syrup depending on your sweetness preference and dietary needs. Use fresh or frozen mixed berries interchangeably, but if using fresh, slightly muddle them to release more flavor before blending for a richer berry essence.
Tips
Ensure the freeze-dried green coffee extract powder is fully dissolved during blending to avoid a grainy texture. Use the ice scoop to measure the correct amount of ice for a perfectly chilled drink without dilution. When shaking the mixture, seal the shaker tightly and shake vigorously to blend flavors evenly and chill thoroughly. Your refreshing Starbucks Refreshers will taste best when served immediately with fresh ice in a cold glass.
Nutritions
Starbucks Refreshers contain real fruit juice and freeze-dried mixed berries, providing natural vitamins and antioxidants, particularly vitamin C and flavonoids. The green coffee extract contributes a modest caffeine boost, typically around 25-50 mg per serving, offering gentle stimulation without the jitters. With minimal added sugars from simple syrup and natural fruit sweetness, the drink remains lower in calories compared to traditional sugary beverages. Your choice to prepare this at home allows control over sweetness and caffeine levels, supporting a balanced, refreshing hydration option.
Storage
Store your Starbucks Refreshers in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours to preserve its fresh fruit flavors and vibrant color. Avoid freezing as it may alter the texture and dilute the natural berry taste upon thawing. For the best crisp finish, serve chilled over fresh ice just before consumption.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute white grape juice with white cranberry juice or apple juice to add a different fruity profile. For a natural sweetener alternative to simple syrup, try honey or agave nectar to adjust sweetness. Instead of freeze-dried green coffee extract powder, using a shot of cold brew concentrate provides the same caffeine kick with a richer coffee flavor. To intensify the berry presence, replace freeze-dried mixed berries with fresh mixed berries and gently muddle them in the shaker before shaking.
Allergies
Your Starbucks Refreshers contain natural fruit ingredients like strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, and white grape juice, all of which can trigger allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to berries or grapes. The freeze-dried green coffee extract may also pose a risk for those with caffeine sensitivities or allergies. It is important to carefully review each ingredient if you have known food allergies to avoid adverse reactions.
Why this recipe?
Starbucks Refreshers menu features vibrant, fruit-infused beverages that deliver a refreshing burst of energy and flavor, appealing to health-conscious individuals seeking low-calorie options. The use of real fruit juice, green coffee extract, and natural ingredients creates a unique taste experience that combines hydration with a caffeine boost. Making a copycat version allows you to customize the sweetness and ingredients to your preference while enjoying a cost-effective alternative. These qualities make the Refreshers worth trying for those who want a revitalizing and flavorful drink.