Save to Pinterest My roommate came home from a summer shift absolutely obsessed with this bright pink drink she'd tried, convinced I could recreate it. That same evening we raided the fridge for coconut milk and strawberries, shaking up batch after batch until we landed on something that actually worked. Now it's the first thing I mix up when friends drop by on hot afternoons, because who can resist something that looks this cheerful in a glass?
Last summer I made these for my sister's baby shower, set up in little dispensers with fresh strawberries floating throughout. Everyone kept asking where I'd ordered them from, and the best part was watching people's faces when I told them it was just coconut milk and strawberry syrup. Now every time I see those pink drinks in coffee shop windows, I smile knowing I can make something just as good at home for a fraction of the price.
Ingredients
- Strawberry Syrup: Store-bought works perfectly fine, but homemade tastes like pure concentrated summer berries
- Coconut Milk: Use unsweetened and chilled—it creates that dreamy frothy layer when shaken vigorously
- Cold Water: This lightens up the rich coconut milk so the drink stays refreshing instead of heavy
- Fresh Strawberries: Slice them thin so they float prettily and release little bursts of flavor as you sip
- Ice Cubes: Essential for that slushy coffee shop texture and keeping everything properly chilled
Instructions
- Mix Your Base:
- Combine the strawberry syrup, coconut milk, and cold water in a shaker or large jar. The trick is shaking it until you see froth forming along the sides—that's what makes it taste professionally made.
- Prep Your Glasses:
- Fill two glasses with ice cubes and scatter the fresh strawberry slices throughout so they're visible through the glass. This is what makes it look so gorgeous when you pour.
- Combine and Serve:
- Pour the pink mixture over the prepared ice and strawberries, then give it one gentle stir to distribute everything. Serve immediately while it's still frosty and the coconut milk is perfectly frothed.
Save to Pinterest There's something about handing someone a glass of this vibrant pink drink that instantly makes a gathering feel special. I've watched it turn stressful afternoons into mini celebrations, simply because it's impossible not to smile at something so cheerful and refreshing.
Making It Lighter
My friend always asks for a lighter version since she's not into super creamy drinks. I've found that using light coconut milk or just increasing the water ratio makes it beautifully refreshing without losing that tropical creaminess that makes this drink so addictive.
The Homemade Syrup Secret
One weekend I decided to make my own strawberry syrup by simmering equal parts fresh strawberries and sugar with just a splash of water. After straining out the fruit, I ended up with this intensely flavored syrup that made the pink drink taste even more incredible than the coffee shop version.
Presentation Ideas
I've learned that the simplest touches make this drink feel absolutely fancy. A sprig of fresh mint or extra strawberry slices on top transforms it into something you'd serve at a brunch party.
- Use clear glasses to show off those beautiful strawberry layers
- Chill your glasses beforehand for extra frostiness
- Double the recipe because everyone always wants seconds
Save to Pinterest Something this pretty and delicious deserves to be shared with people you love, preferably somewhere sunny with nowhere else to be.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Frozen strawberries work well for garnish if thawed first, though fresh slices provide better texture and appearance. For the syrup itself, frozen strawberries actually work excellently when making homemade version.
- → Is this drink naturally sweetened?
The sweetness comes from the strawberry syrup, which typically contains sugar. You can control sweetness by adjusting syrup amount or using a reduced-sugar version. Some strawberry syrups use natural fruit sweetness with minimal added sugar.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
The liquid mixture can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. However, add ice and fresh strawberry slices just before serving for best texture and appearance. The drink may separate slightly when stored, so give it a quick stir or shake before serving.
- → What type of coconut milk works best?
Unsweetened, chilled coconut milk from a carton works best for this drink. Canned coconut milk can be too thick and rich. For a lighter version, use light coconut milk or increase the water ratio slightly.
- → Can I make this without a shaker?
A jar with a tight-fitting lid works perfectly as a substitute. You can also whisk the ingredients vigorously in a bowl or use a blender for extra frothiness. The key is incorporating air into the mixture for that signature frothy texture.
- → How can I make homemade strawberry syrup?
Simmer equal parts fresh or frozen strawberries with sugar and a splash of water over medium heat for 10-15 minutes. Mash the strawberries as they cook, then strain through a fine-mesh sieve. Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.