Copycat Starbucks Hello Kitty Drink Recipe

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This Starbucks Hello Kitty Drink recipe will bring a touch of whimsy and sweetness into your coffee routine. This secret menu item, which I had the joy of experiencing myself, perfectly captures the essence of Hello Kitty with its playful mix of flavors and charming presentation.

How to make Starbucks Hello Kitty Drink

The Starbucks Hello Kitty Drink celebrates Hello Kitty’s golden anniversary, marking a collaboration between Starbucks and Sanrio. This partnership brings a unique experience across 13 markets in the Asia Pacific region, showcasing the beloved character in delightful ways.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of ice
• 1 cup of whole milk (substitute with any milk of your choice for dietary needs)
• 2 scoops of vanilla bean ice cream or 3 tablespoons of vanilla bean powder
• 2 tablespoons of white sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup of strawberry puree (fresh or pre-made)
• Fresh or freeze-dried strawberries for garnish
• Whipped cream
• 1 scoop of freeze-dried or fresh dragon fruit pieces
• Optional: Pink food coloring for an extra pop of color

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Strawberry Puree (if making fresh): Blend a handful of fresh strawberries until you achieve a smooth puree. If you’d like it sweeter, feel free to add a bit of sugar to taste. Set aside.

Blend the Frappuccino Base:

1. In a blender, combine the ice, milk, vanilla bean ice cream or powder, and white sugar.
2. Blend until all ingredients are combined and the mixture is smooth and creamy. If you’d like a more vibrant color, add a small drop of pink food coloring and blend again.

Layer the Drink:

1. Take your favorite tall glass and drizzle some of the strawberry puree at the bottom.
2. Pour the blended Frappuccino mixture over the puree, leaving some space at the top for whipped cream.

Add Toppings:

1. Add a generous dollop of whipped cream to the top of the blended mixture.
2. Sprinkle your dragon fruit pieces and additional strawberry inclusions or slices on top of the whipped cream.
3. Final Touches: For that authentic Hello Kitty vibe, find a Hello Kitty-themed straw or cup to serve it in. Alternatively, simply garnish the whipped cream with Hello Kitty-inspired decorations like a bow or mini edible images.
4. Serve Immediately: Enjoy your delightful Hello Kitty-inspired drink right away!

Tips:

• Fresh vs. Freeze-dried: Using freeze-dried strawberries and dragon fruit will give the toppings a fun crunch. However, that also works perfectly if you prefer fresh fruit for a juicier flavor.
• Dairy Alternatives: If you’re lactose intolerant or vegan, opt for almond, soy, or oat milk and use a non-dairy ice cream alternative.
• Sugar Control: Adjust the sugar level to your preference; you can even substitute it with honey, agave, or a sugar-free alternative.
• Presentation: Get creative with the presentation. A clear glass will show off the layers of your drink, and you can even use Hello Kitty stickers or a themed glass to enhance the theme.

What to serve with

Pairing the right treats with your Starbucks Hello Kitty Drink can turn a simple beverage experience into an indulgent café-style break right in the comfort of your home. Considering the sweet and creamy nature of the Hello Kitty Drink, choosing accompanying snacks that complement without overwhelming its flavors is key.

1. Vanilla Shortbread Cookies: Simple, buttery, and subtly sweet, vanilla shortbread cookies are the perfect accompaniment. For an extra special touch, use Hello Kitty cookie cutters to shape them, making these treats not only delicious but utterly adorable.

2. Fruit Tarts: Fresh fruit tarts with a creamy custard filling can add an elegant touch to your Hello Kitty drink indulgence. The tartness of the fruit balances the sweetness of the drink, and the vibrant colors make for a visually pleasing pairing.

3. Japanese Cheesecake: Opt for a slice of fluffy Japanese cheesecake to go alongside your drink. Its light, airy texture and subtle sweetness will complement the creamy, fruity flavors of your Hello Kitty Frappuccino without overpowering it.

4. Mochi, a Japanese rice cake made of glutinous rice, comes in various flavors like strawberry, green tea, or red bean. These chewy treats offer a delightful texture contrast and can be chosen to match the flavors in your drink.

5. Cupcakes with a light, fluffy base and a not-too-sweet frosting make for an attractive pairing. Opt for vanilla, strawberry, or red velvet cupcakes topped with a light cream cheese frosting to echo the drink’s creamy and fruity notes.

6. Scones with Jam and Cream: A freshly baked scone served with strawberry jam and a dollop of whipped cream, complements the Hello Kitty drink perfectly. The rich, buttery texture of the scones alongside the sweetness of the jam parallels the drink’s delightful flavor profile.

7. Savory Sandwiches: For those desiring a savory option, miniature finger sandwiches can provide a delightful balance. Consider cucumber and cream cheese or egg salad sandwiches cut into small, bite-sized pieces to keep things light and not overshadow the sweetness of your beverage.

Ingredients Substitutes

Creating a Starbucks Hello Kitty Drink at home can be a delightful endeavor, especially if you aim to tailor it to specific dietary needs or preferences. This sweet, creamy beverage, often emblemized by its visually appealing pink hue and indulgent flavor profile, can easily be adapted using a variety of ingredient substitutes.

Milk:

• Dairy-Free Alternatives: Almond milk, coconut milk, oat milk, or soy milk can replace cow’s milk for those avoiding dairy or preferring a plant-based option. Each alternative will impart a slightly different flavor and texture, so you might want to experiment to find which one you like best.

Strawberry Syrup:

• Homemade Alternative: Blend fresh or frozen strawberries into a puree and simmer with a bit of water and sugar to taste until it thickens. You can adjust the sweetness according to your preference and even add a splash of vanilla extract for depth.
• Sugar-Free Alternative: Opt for a sugar-free sweetener like stevia or erythritol for a lower-calorie version while making the syrup.

Vanilla Syrup:

• Homemade Alternative: Combine water, sugar, and a piece of vanilla bean pod (or vanilla extract) in a saucepan. Let it simmer until the sugar has dissolved. Use a sugar substitute that can handle heat well for a sugar-free version.

Whipped Cream:

• Dairy-Free Alternative: Coconut whipped cream or any store-bought dairy-free whipped topping can replace traditional whipped cream.
• Lower Fat Alternative: Light whipped cream or even a dollop of Greek yogurt for a tangier, less indulgent topping.

Food Coloring (if used):

• Natural Alternative: To achieve the drink’s signature pink color naturally, consider using beet juice or pomegranate juice in small amounts, adjusting until you reach the desired hue.

Sprinkles or Toppings:

• Alternative Toppings: Top with fresh fruit like diced strawberries or pomegranate seeds instead of candy sprinkles for a fun and healthier twist. To avoid artificial colors, look for natural or organic sprinkles made with vegetable-based dyes.

Final Thoughts

There you have it, your very own Starbucks Hello Kitty Drink that can light up any day with its cheerful blend and adorable look. Enjoy crafting this delightful beverage and embrace your inner barista and Hello Kitty fan!

More Starbucks Recipes:

• Starbucks Caramel Vanilla Swirl Iced Coffee
• Summer Skies Drink (Starbucks Recipe)
• Starbucks Summer Berry Lemonade Recipe
• Copycat Starbucks Lavender Matcha Latte Recipe
• Copycat Starbucks White Chocolate Mocha Frappuccino