Pin There's something about the first sip of a pink drink that instantly transports you—suddenly you're somewhere tropical, even if you're just standing in your kitchen on a Tuesday morning. I discovered this copycat version one summer when I was craving that famous coffee shop drink but didn't want to leave the house, so I started experimenting with what I had on hand. What began as a desperate attempt to recreate that flavor became my go-to refresher whenever the day feels too warm or too long. The magic isn't complicated, just strawberry syrup, coconut milk, and ice—but somehow it tastes like a small escape.
I made this for a friend during a heatwave when we were sitting on the porch, just wilting in the heat, and the look on her face when she tasted it was worth every second. She immediately asked for the recipe, then came back the next week wanting to know if I could make a whole pitcher for a small gathering. That's when I realized this drink has that rare quality of being both deeply satisfying as a personal treat and completely shareable for moments when you want to impress people without fussing.
Ingredients
- Strawberry Syrup: Use store-bought for speed, but homemade syrup brings a fresher taste that really shines when everything else is so simple—just strawberries, sugar, and a splash of water simmered down and strained.
- Coconut Milk: Unsweetened and chilled is essential; sweetened versions will make the drink cloying, and warm coconut milk ruins the whole refreshing effect.
- Cold Water: This is your secret balance—it dilutes the richness of the coconut milk just enough so each sip doesn't feel heavy.
- Fresh Strawberries: Slice them just before serving so they stay firm and pretty; they soften quickly once they hit the cold drink.
- Ice Cubes: Use plenty—the drink should be genuinely icy cold when it hits your mouth.
Instructions
- Combine the Base:
- Pour your strawberry syrup, chilled coconut milk, and cold water into a shaker or large jar, then shake or stir until you see light foam forming on the surface. This aeration makes the drink feel lighter and more luxurious than if you just mixed it.
- Set Up Your Glasses:
- Drop ice cubes and sliced strawberries into two glasses—the strawberries will float and look beautiful while slowly infusing the drink with their flavor as it sits.
- Pour and Serve:
- Pour your pink mixture over the ice and strawberries with a gentle hand, then give it one last stir and taste immediately. If it feels too sweet, add a splash more water; if it's too diluted, stir in more syrup.
Pin This drink became my answer to those moments when someone stops by unexpectedly and you want to offer them something that feels thoughtful without requiring an actual recipe. There's a small joy in handing someone a cold glass with pink liquid and fresh strawberries, watching their face light up, and knowing it took you five minutes but feels like you actually tried.
Customizing Your Pink Drink
The beauty of this recipe is how flexible it is without losing its soul. If you prefer something lighter, swap the coconut milk for a splash of coconut cream mixed with more water, or even use coconut-flavored almond milk if that's what you have. For those who like things sweeter, add an extra tablespoon of syrup, but do it gradually so you don't overshoot; for those who find it too rich, increase the water and trust that the strawberry flavor will still shine through.
Making Your Own Strawberry Syrup
Homemade syrup genuinely tastes better and isn't any more complicated than opening a bottle—just simmer equal parts fresh strawberries and sugar with a splash of water over medium heat for about ten minutes until it thickens slightly, then strain it through a fine mesh to catch all the pulp. The first time I made it, I didn't strain it thoroughly and ended up with tiny strawberry bits floating in my drink, which actually looked even prettier, so if you're in a rush, don't stress about perfection.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serve this immediately after making it while the ice is still solid and the drink is at peak refreshment—it starts to get watery after sitting for more than a few minutes. You can make the mixture ahead and store it in the fridge for up to a day, then pour it over fresh ice and strawberries when you're ready to drink. For a party, make a pitcher of the mixture without the ice, and let people add their own ice and fresh strawberries so everything stays properly chilled.
- Garnish with a few mint leaves or an extra strawberry slice for color if you're serving guests.
- If you want it more tropical, add a tablespoon of fresh lime juice to cut through the sweetness slightly.
- Keep your glasses in the freezer for five minutes before serving so they stay cold longer.
Pin This is the kind of recipe that sneaks into your regular rotation not because it's fancy, but because it just works—it tastes like summer, it makes you happy, and it proves that the simplest things sometimes feel the most special. Make one today.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of coconut milk is best?
Use unsweetened, chilled coconut milk for a creamy base without added sugars that complements the strawberry flavors.
- → Can I adjust the sweetness?
Yes, increase or reduce strawberry syrup to suit your taste preferences, balancing natural sweetness and tartness.
- → How should I serve this beverage?
Serve immediately over ice with fresh strawberry slices for a refreshing and visually appealing drink.
- → Are there alternatives to strawberry syrup?
Homemade strawberry syrup can be made by simmering fresh strawberries with sugar and water, then straining for natural flavor.
- → Is this drink suitable for special diets?
Yes, it is vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free, accommodating various dietary preferences.