They’re fun drinks because they’re colorful. You’ve probably heard of the Strawberry Açaí Refresher, Pink Drink, Mango Dragonfruit Refresher, or Dragon Drink. What’s more fun than a refreshing drink, especially on a hot summer day?
Who are these drinks aimed at?
Would anyone enjoy this drink? What are the ingredients in these drinks, and can they be made at home? I’m going to show you how these Refreshers come together, including the ones with lemonade and those made with coconut milk.
I’ve been a barista at Target since 2018, but I’ve been enjoying Refreshers since I was younger. I’ll give you a little bit of a backstory on the Refreshers from my perspective since, as I just mentioned, I’ve been drinking them for years.
A Barista’s Journey with Cafe Refreshers
When I became a barista in 2018, I had to learn about different Refreshers. Back then, the available Refreshers were the Strawberry Açaí Refresher, Very Berry Hibiscus Refresher, and Cool Lime Refresher. After some time, the Cool Lime Refresher was discontinued, and I was so sad.
ntinued this year.
1. Starbucks Refreshers ☕🍓
Starbucks offers a range of fruity, lightly caffeinated refresher drinks, including:
- Strawberry Açaí Refresher – A perfect mix of strawberry, açaí, and green coffee extract.
- Mango Dragonfruit Refresher – A tropical blend of mango, dragonfruit, and a boost of caffeine.
- Pineapple Passionfruit Refresher – A zesty combination of pineapple, passionfruit, and ice.
2. Lemonade Iced Tea (Arnold Palmer) 🍋
A mix of lemonade and iced tea, this classic summer drink is refreshing and slightly tangy. You can find it at most cafés and restaurants, or make it at home with fresh lemons and black tea!
3. Agua Fresca 🍉🥭
A Mexican-inspired fruit drink, Agua Fresca is made by blending fresh fruit, water, sugar, and lime juice. Popular flavors include:
- Watermelon
- Mango
- Pineapple
- Cucumber-lime
4. Coconut Water Coolers 🥥🌿
Coconut water is naturally hydrating and packed with electrolytes. You can enjoy it plain or mix it with fresh mint, lime, or berries for extra flavor.
5. Fresh Fruit Smoothies 🍓🍌🥤
A smoothie made with fresh fruits, yogurt, or milk is a great way to stay refreshed. Popular summer combos include:
- Strawberry-banana
- Mango-pineapple
- Mixed berry
6. Classic Mojito (Virgin or Regular) 🌿🍋
A perfect blend of mint, lime, sugar, and soda water, mojitos are light and refreshing. For a non-alcoholic version, skip the rum and enjoy a Virgin Mojit
7. Cucumber Mint Cooler 🥒🌱
A super hydrating drink made with blended cucumber, mint leaves, lime juice, and a splash of soda. It’s light, cooling, and perfect for hot summer days.
8. Iced Matcha Latte 🍵🥶
A great alternative to coffee, iced matcha latte is made with Japanese matcha powder, milk (or almond/oat milk), and ice. It provides a gentle caffeine boost and is packed with antioxidants!
9. Watermelon Slushie 🍉❄️
Blend fresh watermelon, ice, and a squeeze of lime juice to make this naturally sweet and refreshing summer drink. You can also add a little mint for extra freshness!
10. Blueberry Lemonade 🍋
A twist on the classic lemonade, this version includes fresh blueberries, lemon juice, sugar, and ice for a slightly tangy and sweet refresher.
How Are Refreshers Made?
Step-by-Step: Making a Starbucks Refresher
Add the base. Depending on the drink, this could be Strawberry Açaí, Mango Dragonfruit, or Pineapple Passionfruit base.
Add water. Then, add ice and the fruit pieces (inclusions).
For example, the Strawberry Açaí Refresher contains:
Strawberry Açaí base
- Water
- Ice
- Freeze-dried strawberry inclusions
The same process applies to the other Refreshers—just swap the base. That’s it!
The keyword for Refreshers is water. But what about the ones with lemonade?
- If you want a Mango Dragonfruit Lemonade Refresher, swap the water for lemonade.
- If you want one with coconut milk, swap the water for coconut milk.
Who Can Enjoy These Drinks?
I’d say anyone! However, keep in mind that they do contain caffeine. They taste like juice but have a mild caffeine kick.
Can These Be Made at Home?
Yes! Although I haven’t found a perfect recipe yet, I’d start by using white grapefruit juice as a base. You can also buy fruit inclusions from stores like Target (which sells dried strawberries) or Trader Joe’s (which sells freeze-dried blueberries, strawberries, etc.).
Final Thoughts
That wraps up Refreshers in a nutshell. They’re way easier to make than they sound—right?
Drop a comment if you have any questions, and let me know your favorite Refresher!
Thanks for reading.
I am Sabiq Rasel is an Entrepreneur and broadcaster. I believe that every sip of coffee holds the potential for a moment of inspiration, creativity, and every cup tells a story.
