My partner was absolutely hooked on the Starbucks Strawberry Acai Refresher, but lately he tries to avoid it due to the sugar rush and caffeine hit that comes with it. So, I took on the challenge of making a homemade version that’s just as colorful and refreshing—without any of the unnecessary extras.
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This homemade refresher is packed with real fruit, naturally sweetened, and totally customizable.
How to Make it
1. Create the Acai Base
In a glass or shaker bottle, whisk the acai powder into cold water (or coconut water for extra electrolytes). To get a smooth consistency, use a handheld frother or whisk vigorously. Then strain through a fine-mesh sieve. Stir in your chosen sweetener until fully dissolved.
2. Blend the Strawberries
In a blender, combine the strawberries with cold water. Blend until completely smooth. If you prefer a chunkier drink, pulse a few times instead of blending fully. Pour the strawberry mixture into your acai base and stir well.
3. Assemble & Serve
Fill a tall glass with ice cubes. Pour the mixture over the ice, then top with sparkling water for a refreshing fizz (optional but highly recommended!).
4. Final Touches
Squeeze in a little fresh lime or lemon juice for a citrusy pop. Garnish with mint leaves for an extra cooling effect. Stir, sip, and enjoy!
What Makes This Better Than Starbucks?
- Caffeine-free & guilt-free – Enjoy it anytime without worrying about jitters.
- Naturally sweetened – No artificial syrups, just pure honey or maple syrup.
- Super hydrating – Made with coconut water or sparkling water for a refreshing twist.
- Full of antioxidants – Acai and strawberries are loaded with nutrients your body will love.
- Kid friendly – My kids love it and often ask me to make it for their friends when they come for play day. Just without the sparkling water – you know how kids are 🙂
Now you have your homemade strawberry acai refresher, which in turn is a more budget-friendly option than the original Starbucks version.
Make It Your Own
- Turn it into a smoothie – Blend everything with ice for a thicker, more filling version.
- Boost the flavor – Add a splash of passion fruit juice, mango puree, or a handful of fresh raspberries.
- Add a tea infusion – Brew hibiscus or white tea, chill it, and use it in place of some of the water for extra depth of flavor.
- Make it creamier – Mix in a bit of coconut milk or almond milk for a creamy, tropical twist.
- Experiment with herbs – Muddle basil or rosemary instead of mint for a unique herbal note.
This homemade Strawberry Acai Refresher isn’t just a copycat—it’s an upgrade, thanks to its natural ingredients, customizable sweetness, and the absence of artificial additives or caffeine.
Too busy to make this right now? Pin for later to your favorite Pinterest Board!
No hidden syrups, no caffeine crash, just a refreshing, nutrient-packed drink that you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a try and taste the difference!
Most importantly, my partner loves this version, and I hope you do too! I’d love to hear how yours turns out.
Share your thoughts, your tweaks, and even your photos. Let’s swap ideas and create even more delicious, healthier versions of this amazing drink together!
More Fun Summer Drinks
- Mango Lassi – Refreshing yogurt drink
- Strawberry Mojito Mocktail – no alcohol, amazing drink
Strawberry Acai Refresher Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons Acai Berry Powder
- 1 cup Cold Water or Coconut Water
- 1-2 teaspoons Honey, Maple Syrup, or Natural Sweetener
- 1 cup Fresh or Frozen Strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup  Cold Water(or sparkling water for an extra refreshing touch)
INGREDIENTS
Instructions
Step 1. Create the Acai Base
- 1. In a glass or shaker bottle, whisk the acai powder into cold water (or coconut water for extra electrolytes).2. To get a smooth consistency, use a handheld frother or whisk vigorously.3. Then strain through a fine-mesh sieve. Stir in your chosen sweetener until fully dissolved.
Step 2. Blend the Strawberries
- 1. In a blender, combine the strawberries with cold water.2. Blend until completely smooth.3. If you prefer a chunkier drink, pulse a few times instead of blending fully.4. Pour the strawberry mixture into your acai base and stir well.
Step 3. Assemble & Serve
- 1. Fill a tall glass with ice cubes.2. Pour the mixture over the ice, then top with sparkling water for a refreshing fizz (optional but highly recommended!)..
Step 4. Final Touches
- 1. Squeeze in a little fresh lime or lemon juice for a citrusy pop.2. Garnish with mint leaves for an extra cooling effect. Stir, sip, and enjoy!
