Save Last summer, during that wicked heatwave, I was craving something cool and fruity but didn't want to leave my air-conditioned sanctuary. Rummaging through my kitchen, I discovered coconut milk and fresh strawberries, which sparked an idea to recreate that famous pink drink everyone lines up for. The first sip transported me straight to vacation mode – creamy, sweet, and utterly refreshing against the sweltering heat.
My sister dropped by unexpectedly during one of my pink drink experiments and practically begged for the recipe after her first taste. She now makes it for her book club meetings, and apparently, it's become their unofficial signature beverage. Something about the pale pink color and the floating strawberry slices makes everyone pull out their phones for pictures before they even take a sip.
Ingredients
- Coconut Milk: The unsweetened version gives you control over the final sweetness, plus it creates that signature creamy mouthfeel that makes this drink so satisfying.
- Strawberry Syrup: Store-bought works perfectly fine, but I've found homemade syrup with real strawberries gives a more authentic flavor with lovely flecks of red throughout.
- Fresh Strawberries: These aren't just for looks – they infuse more flavor as you sip and give you a little treat at the bottom of your glass.
Instructions
- Mix Your Base:
- Combine the strawberry syrup, coconut milk, and cold water in a shaker or large jar with a tight lid. Give it a good shake until you see a frothy layer forming on top.
- Prep Your Glasses:
- Add a generous handful of ice cubes to each glass, then nestle sliced strawberries throughout. The ice will help keep the strawberry pieces distributed instead of all floating to the top.
- Pour and Serve:
- Slowly pour your pink mixture over the ice and strawberries, watching the color bloom throughout the glass. Give it a gentle stir just before serving to make sure all the flavors mingle properly.
Save When my neighbor's daughter came over for a playdate with my niece, I served these pink drinks in fancy glasses with paper straws. Their eyes went wide with delight, and my niece whispered dramatically, "My aunt makes the FANCY drinks." Sometimes it's the simplest things that make you feel like the coolest adult in a child's world.
Make It Your Own
The beauty of making this at home is how easily you can customize it. For an extra tropical twist, I sometimes add a splash of pineapple juice or even swap half the water for white grape juice. On particularly indulgent days, a small scoop of vanilla ice cream turns this into more of a dessert float that slowly melts into creamy pink perfection.
Presentation Matters
Clear glasses show off the pretty pink color best, and tall ones give you room for plenty of ice and strawberries. For gatherings, I pre-slice strawberries and keep them separate until serving time so they don't get soggy. A mint leaf garnish adds a pop of green that makes the pink seem even pinker through the magic of color contrast.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
While best enjoyed fresh, you can prep components ahead for quick assembly. The strawberry syrup keeps for up to two weeks in the refrigerator in an airtight container, developing an even deeper flavor over time.
- If making for a crowd, mix the liquid base up to 3 hours ahead but store separately from the ice and berries until serving.
- Frozen strawberries can substitute for fresh in a pinch and actually help keep the drink cold without diluting it.
- For a party pitcher version, double or triple the recipe but add ice to individual glasses rather than the pitcher to prevent watering down.
Save This copycat pink drink has become my summer signature, requested at every gathering and praised for its refreshing simplicity. In a world of complicated recipes, there's something wonderfully satisfying about creating something so delightful with so little effort.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this drink ahead of time?
While best served immediately, you can prepare the strawberry syrup, coconut milk, and water mixture several hours ahead and refrigerate. Add ice and fresh strawberries just before serving to prevent dilution and keep flavors vibrant.
- → What's the best way to make homemade strawberry syrup?
Simmer equal parts fresh strawberries and sugar with a splash of water over medium heat for 5-10 minutes until syrupy. Strain through a fine mesh to remove seeds and pulp. Cool completely before using. Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- → Can I substitute coconut milk with other options?
Absolutely. Use light coconut milk for fewer calories, or try almond milk, oat milk, or cashew milk for different flavors. Dairy milk works too if you're not vegan. Adjust quantities based on desired creaminess and sweetness.
- → How do I get the frothy texture?
Vigorous shaking in a cocktail shaker creates the frothy effect. If using a jar, secure the lid tightly and shake for 30-45 seconds. The movement incorporates air into the mixture, creating that signature foam and texture.
- → What garnishes work best with this drink?
Fresh mint leaves add a refreshing herbal note, while extra strawberry slices enhance the presentation. Whipped coconut cream, a sugar rim, or a strawberry on the glass rim are all festive options that complement the tropical flavors.
- → Can this drink be made without coconut?
Yes. Replace coconut milk with any plant-based or dairy milk alternative. The strawberry syrup and fresh strawberries remain the stars. Adjust water ratios to maintain the right consistency and flavor balance for your chosen milk substitute.