Refresher Copycat Pink Drink

One sweltering afternoon in July, I wandered into my kitchen craving something sweet and cold but not heavy. I had a carton of coconut milk in the fridge and some strawberries that needed using. Within minutes, I was sipping something so pink, so refreshing, I felt like I'd cheated the heat. No coffee run, no waiting in line, just a shaker and five minutes of pure summer relief.

I made this for my neighbor's kids one Saturday, and they stood at my counter with wide eyes, convinced I had magic powers. They didn't believe me when I said it took less time than tying their shoes. Now every time they see me outside, they ask if it's Pink Drink Day, and honestly, I never say no.

Ingredients

• Strawberry syrup: This is your flavor backbone, so use a good quality syrup or make your own by simmering strawberries with sugar until it thickens and straining out the solids.
• Coconut milk: Go for the unsweetened kind from a carton, not the thick canned version, and chill it well so your drink stays cold and smooth.
• Cold water: It stretches the drink without diluting the flavor too much, keeping it light and refreshing instead of heavy.
• Fresh strawberries: Sliced thin, they add little bursts of real fruit flavor and make the drink look like something from a magazine.
• Ice cubes: Use plenty, because this drink is all about that frosty, thirst-quenching chill that makes you forget it's hot outside.

Instructions

Combine the base:

Pour the strawberry syrup, coconut milk, and cold water into a shaker or a jar with a tight lid. If you don't have a shaker, a mason jar works perfectly and feels a little more fun anyway.

Shake it up:

Seal the lid and shake vigorously for about 10 seconds until the mixture turns frothy and pale pink. The froth is half the magic, so don't skip this step.

Prep your glasses:

Drop ice cubes into two tall glasses, then tuck in the sliced strawberries so they nestle against the ice. This keeps the fruit visible and makes every sip prettier.

Pour and serve:

Slowly pour the pink mixture over the ice and berries, letting it cascade down the sides. Give it a gentle stir with a straw and serve immediately while it's still icy cold.

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The first time I served this at a backyard gathering, someone asked if I'd driven to the coffee shop and back without them noticing. I just smiled and handed them the recipe. It's become my secret weapon for looking like I tried harder than I did, and I'm completely okay with that.

Make It Your Own

If you want a lighter version, swap half the coconut milk for more water or use light coconut milk, though you'll lose a bit of that creamy richness. For extra flair, toss in a handful of mint leaves or a squeeze of lime juice before shaking. I've even added a splash of pineapple juice when I'm feeling tropical, and it never disappoints.

Storage and Prep Tips

This drink is best enjoyed fresh, but you can mix the base ahead and keep it in the fridge for up to a day. Just give it a good shake before pouring over fresh ice and berries. If you make your own strawberry syrup, it'll keep in a sealed jar in the fridge for about a week, so you can whip up Pink Drinks whenever the craving hits.

Serving Suggestions

I love serving this in clear glasses so the pink color shines through, and I always add a sprig of mint or an extra strawberry on the rim for that café look. It pairs beautifully with brunch dishes like avocado toast or fruit salad, but honestly, it's perfect all on its own as an afternoon pick-me-up.

• Garnish with fresh mint or basil for an herbal twist.
• Serve alongside light pastries or granola for a complete breakfast vibe.
• Double the recipe for a crowd and serve in a pitcher with a ladle for easy self-serve.

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This drink has become my little escape on busy days, a reminder that sometimes the best things take almost no time at all. I hope it brings you that same kind of easy, breezy joy.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I make this drink ahead of time?

The syrup base can be prepared earlier, but it's best to add ice and serve immediately to maintain the drink's refreshing chill and prevent dilution. Prepare individual components separately and combine just before serving.

→ What's a good substitute for coconut milk?

Almond milk, cashew milk, or oat milk work well as alternatives. Use the same measurement and choose unsweetened varieties to control the drink's sweetness level with the strawberry syrup.

→ How do I make homemade strawberry syrup?

Combine equal parts fresh strawberries and sugar in a saucepan with a splash of water. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until berries break down and mixture thickens, then strain through a fine mesh. Cool completely before using.

→ Can I batch this for a crowd?

Absolutely. Simply multiply the ingredient quantities by the number of servings needed. Mix the syrup base in a large pitcher, chill until ready to serve, then add ice and fresh strawberries to glasses just before pouring.

→ Is this safe for those with nut allergies?

This drink contains coconut, which is a tree nut allergen. Those with nut allergies should use non-coconut milk alternatives like oat, almond, or rice milk. Always check product labels for cross-contamination warnings.

→ What garnishes pair well with this drink?

Fresh mint leaves, additional strawberry slices, coconut shavings, or edible flowers create an attractive presentation. A strawberry rim or sugar coating on the glass adds a festive touch for special occasions.