There’s nothing like a cold, colorful drink to brighten a hot day, and this Summer Berry Refresher Starbucks copycat is one you’ll want on repeat. It’s fruity, lightly caffeinated, and has that Instagram-worthy layered look thanks to jewel-like raspberry pearls at the bottom. Best of all, you can make it at home in minutes – no long drive-thru lines required.
Why You’ll Love This Starbucks Summer Berry Refresher Recipe
- Vibrant & Refreshing – A cooling mix of berry syrup, spirulina, and green coffee powder gives a naturally bright hue and a fresh flavor.
- Better Than Takeout – Save money and skip the wait by making this Starbucks-inspired refresher at home.
- Fun for All Ages – Kids will love the boba-style raspberry pearls, while adults appreciate the subtle boost of green coffee.
- Customizable – Adjust the sweetness, swap flavors, or play with toppings to make it your own.
Ingredients and Substitutions
Here’s what you’ll need for this DIY refresher:
- ¼ cup raspberry pearls – Also known as popping boba, these add a playful burst of fruitiness. Swap with strawberry pearls or omit for a simpler version.
- ½ cup water – Cold, filtered water works best.
- ½ cup mixed berry syrup – Store-bought or homemade. You can also use raspberry syrup, blueberry syrup, or even pomegranate juice concentrate.
- ½ teaspoon green coffee powder – This provides the gentle caffeine lift typical of Starbucks refreshers. Substitute with matcha for a different flavor twist.
- ¼ teaspoon blue spirulina – Creates the gorgeous deep blue tint. You can skip it if unavailable, but the drink won’t have the same striking layered look.
- Ice – As much as you like for a frosty finish.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Layer, don’t stir. The magic comes from the layered effect—so resist the urge to mix before serving.
- Chill the berry mix first. This helps the colors stay sharp when poured over the raspberry pearls.
- Use a clear glass. Half the fun is seeing the vibrant colors shine through.
- Sweetness check. If your berry syrup is very sweet, balance it with a splash of sparkling water instead of plain water.
- For a fizzy twist, swap water with club soda or flavored sparkling water.
FAQs About Summer Berry Refresher Starbucks Copycat
Does this taste exactly like Starbucks’ Summer Berry Refresher?
It’s very close, but since Starbucks uses proprietary syrup blends, this is a homemade take that captures the same refreshing, fruity vibe.
Can I make this caffeine-free for kids?
Yes! Simply skip the green coffee powder and serve it as a sparkling berry drink with pearls.
Where can I find raspberry pearls?
Most Asian grocery stores carry them, or you can order popping boba online.
Can I prep it ahead of time?
The berry mixture can be made ahead and stored in the fridge, but add pearls and ice just before serving to keep the texture fresh.
Is this drink healthy?
It’s definitely a lighter, homemade option compared to store-bought versions since you control the sweetness. Using natural syrups or fresh berry reductions can make it even healthier.
Summer Berry Refresher Starbucks Copycat Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small pitcher or glass, combine the water and mixed berry syrup. Stir until smooth.
- Add the green coffee powder and blue spirulina, whisking until fully dissolved.
- Fill another serving glass halfway with ice. Place the raspberry pearls at the bottom.
- Gently pour the chilled berry-spirulina mixture over the pearls.
- Do not stir. Serve immediately with a wide straw.
Notes
- To make this toddler- and kid-friendly, leave out the green coffee powder. The pearls alone make it a fun, fruity treat.
- For extra refreshment, replace water with sparkling water.
- You can use homemade berry syrup by simmering equal parts mixed berries, sugar, and water, then straining.
💬 If you try this Summer Berry Refresher Starbucks copycat recipe, I’d love to hear what you think! Drop a rating or leave a review—it helps others find and enjoy this recipe too.