The Starbucks Strawberry Acai Refresher blends sweet strawberry flavors, tart acai berry, and a hint of green coffee extract, served over ice with vibrant pieces of real strawberry, delivering a refreshing and fruity iced beverage perfect for a revitalizing experience.
Equipments
- Shaker cup with lid
- Ice scoop
- Tongs
- Measuring cup/jigger
- Bar spoon or stirrer
- Tall serving cup (cold cup)
- Straw
Ingredients
- 1 cup (240ml) white grape juice
- 2 tablespoons freeze-dried acai powder
- 1 tablespoon instant green coffee extract
- 1/2 cup (75g) sliced fresh strawberries
- 1/2 cup (120ml) cold water
- 1–2 tablespoons simple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- Ice cubes
Freeze-dried acai powder is essential for capturing the tart, authentic berry flavor characteristic of the Starbucks Strawberry Acai Refresher. Using instant green coffee extract adds a subtle caffeine kick without overpowering the fruity profile. Fresh, sliced strawberries provide vibrant color and texture, so choose firm, ripe berries for the best presentation and taste. Adjust the simple syrup to your preference; it enhances sweetness but can be omitted if you prefer a lighter, more natural flavor. Your homemade Strawberry Acai Refresher closely mimics the refreshing, fruity iced beverage from Starbucks found on the copycat menu.
Instructions
- Add 1 cup (240ml) white grape juice to shaker cup.
- Add 2 tablespoons freeze-dried acai powder.
- Add 1 tablespoon instant green coffee extract.
- Add 1/2 cup (120ml) cold water.
- Add 1–2 tablespoons simple syrup (optional, for sweetness).
- Add ice cubes to shaker (about 1 cup or desired amount).
- Secure lid and shake well for 10–15 seconds.
- Place sliced fresh strawberries (1/2 cup/75g) into serving cup.
- Pour shaken mixture over strawberries and ice in serving cup.
- Insert straw, stir lightly, and serve immediately.
Substitution
The Starbucks Strawberry Acai Refresher copycat recipe closely mimics the original's balance of sweet strawberry, tart acai berry, and subtle green coffee extract flavors. If freeze-dried acai powder is unavailable, you can substitute with acai berry juice concentrate or acai berry puree without significantly altering the taste. Instant green coffee extract can be replaced with a small amount of cold brewed green coffee or green tea for a similar energizing effect. Adjust the simple syrup amount based on your preferred sweetness to ensure the beverage suits your taste. Using fresh strawberries is ideal, but frozen strawberries may be used in a pinch, just slightly thawed before mixing with other ingredients.
Tips
Ensure the freeze-dried acai powder is fully dissolved by shaking the mixture vigorously for at least 10 seconds to avoid clumps in your drink. Use fresh, ripe strawberries sliced evenly to enhance both flavor and presentation when placed at the bottom of your tall serving cup. Adjust the simple syrup quantity according to your taste preference to control the sweetness without overpowering the natural tartness of the acai and strawberry. Always use cold water and plenty of ice cubes to keep Your Starbucks Strawberry Acai Refresher refreshingly chilled and vibrant.
Nutritions
The Starbucks Strawberry Acai Refresher is low in calories while providing antioxidants from acai powder and vitamin C from fresh strawberries, supporting immune health. The green coffee extract contributes a modest caffeine boost, enhancing your alertness without the jitters associated with coffee. White grape juice adds natural sweetness and hydration, though it contains sugars you may want to monitor if managing your intake. This beverage offers a flavorful option that balances hydration, nutrients, and a mild energy lift with real fruit pieces for added texture.
Storage
Store your Starbucks Strawberry Acai Refresher in an airtight container in the refrigerator if not consumed immediately, ideally for up to 24 hours to maintain freshness and flavor. Keep the fresh sliced strawberries separate until serving to prevent sogginess. Avoid freezing the beverage as ice and fresh fruit texture will degrade upon thawing.
Variation or Alternatives
You can replace white grape juice with white cranberry juice or coconut water to add a subtly different fruity base and boost hydration. Swap freeze-dried acai powder for acai berry puree or powder from other antioxidant-rich berries like maqui or blueberry for varying antioxidant profiles. Adjust sweetness using honey or agave syrup instead of simple syrup to add natural depth. Consider shaking the mixture with crushed ice for a slushier texture, enhancing the refreshment factor.
Allergies
The Starbucks Strawberry Acai Refresher contains freeze-dried acai powder and fresh strawberries, which could trigger allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to berries or certain fruit allergens. White grape juice might also pose a risk to those with grape allergies. If you have known fruit or berry allergies, it's important to verify ingredient safety before consuming this drink.
Why this recipe?
The Strawberry Acai Refresher from Starbucks delivers a refreshing blend of natural fruit flavors with a vibrant, tropical twist that appeals to a wide range of customers. Its combination of real strawberry pieces, acai berry concentrate, and green coffee extract provides a unique balance of sweetness and energizing caffeine, enhancing both taste and function. You can recreate this delightful beverage at home with simple ingredients, making it a cost-effective and customizable option while satisfying your craving for a healthy, flavorful drink. This copycat recipe allows you to enjoy a popular Starbucks treat anytime without compromising quality or flavor.