Strawberry Acai Refresher (Starbucks Copycat) Recipe

This Strawberry Acai Refresher is a vibrant, fruity drink that tastes just like the Starbucks favorite—but made right at home! With a refreshing blend of strawberries, açaí, green tea, and a splash of lemonade, this iced drink is energizing, lightly sweet, and incredibly satisfying. It’s the perfect homemade pick-me-up for warm afternoons, or whenever you need a little boost without heading to the coffee shop.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Refreshing: The combination of real strawberries, tangy açaí, and citrusy lemonade over ice is a thirst-quencher like no other.
• Easy to Make at Home: No fancy equipment or barista training required. If you can stir and shake, you can make this drink.
• Customizable: Want it less sweet, more tart, or with added caffeine? This recipe is flexible and fully adjustable to your tastes.
• Cheaper Than Starbucks: Let’s be honest—those $5 drinks add up. Making this at home saves you money without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what brings this Strawberry Acai Refresher to life:

• Freeze-Dried Strawberries: For that signature strawberry flavor and visual appeal. They soften beautifully in the drink.
• White Grape Juice: Acts as a natural sweetener and gives the refresher its light body and subtle fruity undertones.
• Green Tea: Provides a mild caffeine kick and refreshing depth. Use cooled, brewed green tea for the best results.
• Açaí Powder or Açaí Juice: Açaí adds that unmistakable deep berry flavor and gorgeous color. Powder dissolves easily, but juice works too.
• Lemonade: Adds brightness and just the right amount of tartness. Opt for fresh lemonade or a high-quality bottled version.
• Water or Coconut Water: Helps dilute the drink to a smooth, drinkable consistency. Coconut water adds a tropical twist.
• Ice: Essential for chilling and giving it that classic Starbucks-like look and feel.
• Sweetener (Optional): Use simple syrup, honey, or stevia to taste, depending on how sweet you want your refresher.

Variations

Want to switch it up a bit? Here are a few fun ways to play with the recipe:

• Strawberry Coconut Acai: Swap the water for coconut milk for a creamy, pink drink-inspired twist.
• Add Extra Fruit: Toss in a few fresh blueberries or raspberries for added texture and flavor.
• More Caffeine: Use matcha or caffeinated green tea for an extra energy boost.
• Herbal Touch: Add a few mint leaves or a splash of hibiscus tea for a botanical vibe.

How to Make Strawberry Acai Refresher

Step 1: Brew and Cool the Tea

Start by brewing your green tea. Let it steep, then cool it completely. You can pop it in the fridge or let it sit at room temp.

Step 2: Mix the Base

In a pitcher or large jar, combine white grape juice, lemonade, cooled green tea, and açaí powder or juice. Stir or shake until fully blended.

Step 3: Sweeten to Taste

If desired, add your sweetener of choice. Taste and adjust until it’s just right for you.

Step 4: Add the Strawberries

Toss in freeze-dried strawberries and give it a gentle stir. Let them soak for a few minutes to soften and release their flavor.

Step 5: Serve Over Ice

Fill a glass (or two!) with ice and pour the refresher mixture over. Garnish with extra strawberries or a lemon slice if you’re feeling fancy.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Chill Everything First: Keep your juice, tea, and lemonade cold so your drink doesn’t get watered down too fast.
• Use a Shaker or Mason Jar: Shaking helps blend the ingredients more smoothly, especially if you’re using açaí powder.
• Double or Triple the Batch: This makes a great pitcher drink for brunches, picnics, or just to keep in the fridge.
• Strain if Needed: If you prefer a super smooth drink, strain the mixture before serving to remove any powder clumps or pulp.

How to Serve

Serve this Strawberry Acai Refresher in a tall glass over plenty of ice. It’s ideal as a midday cooler, a brunch beverage, or a lighter alternative to soda or sugary juices. Pair it with:

• A light salad or sandwich for lunch
• Fresh fruit bowls or yogurt parfaits for breakfast
• Pastries or muffins for an afternoon snack

Want to level up the presentation? Add a lemon wedge, fresh mint, or a few slices of fresh strawberry on top.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavor holds well, but give it a good shake or stir before serving again.

Freezing

While freezing the whole drink isn’t ideal, you can freeze the refresher base into ice cubes. Great for a quick blend-and-sip smoothie later!

Reheating

This is a cold drink, so reheating doesn’t apply—but if the mixture has separated in the fridge, just stir or shake it back to life.

FAQs

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried?
Yes! Just slice a few fresh strawberries and muddle them lightly in the glass before adding the liquid. It won’t be exactly the same, but still delicious.

What can I use instead of açaí powder?
Açaí juice or a blended frozen açaí packet works well. Just make sure to thaw and mix thoroughly if using frozen.

Is there caffeine in this drink?
Yes, if you use green tea or matcha. If you want a caffeine-free version, substitute with herbal tea or simply skip the tea altogether.

Can I make this drink sugar-free?
Absolutely! Just use unsweetened green tea and lemonade, and skip or substitute the white grape juice with a low-sugar option.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Acai Refresher is a simple, bright, and incredibly tasty way to bring the coffee shop experience home. It’s quick to make, endlessly customizable, and just plain fun to sip. Whether you’re looking to stay cool or save a few bucks, this copycat recipe is a winner worth making on repeat. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!

Print