It’s the season for beach picnics, backyard barbecues, and yes—specialty drinks that keep the vibe as cool as a poolside dip. The “Starbucks Summer Skies Drink,” a Starbucks secret menu gem that’s like a mini-vacation in a cup. Imagine sipping on a drink so blissfully refreshing; it’s like catching a breeze from the top of a Ferris wheel. Ready to whip up your own blue skies in a glass? Let’s mix up a little sunshine together, shall we?
The Starbucks Summer Skies Drink is a refreshing beverage that’s part of their Starbucks Refreshers® lineup, renowned for its vibrant blue hue and fruity flavor profile. This unique concoction blends the tantalizing flavors of raspberry, blueberry, and blackberry, all shaken with ice and creamy coconut milk.
Ingredients:
Water: The unsung hero. It forms the base of our drink, so let’s keep it nice and pure.
Granulated sugar: Sweetness is key! This trusty pantry staple will balance the tangy flavors.
Blueberry extract: For that deep, fruity undertone that makes you think of sun-kissed berry patches.
Raspberry extract: Adds a bright pop of flavor, like a cheerful burst of summer.
Blackberry extract: Gives a mature twist with its earthy and tart goodness.
Citric acid: This is our secret weapon for that kick, mimicking the zesty vibe of fresh citrus without the pulp.
Green coffee bean extract powder: A nod to Starbucks’ roots—it adds a slight caffeinated lift without overwhelming the fruity jubilation.
Blue spirulina powder: Nature’s paint. It transforms the drink into a sky-blue wonder without altering the taste.
Raspberry pearls: These little jewels are the cherry on top, adding a crunchy, fun burst with each sip.
Instructions:
Sweet Syrup Creation: Kick things off by making a simple syrup. Combine 1 part water to 1 part granulated sugar in a saucepan. Heat until the sugar dissolves. Let this mixture cool off to room temperature.
Flavor Fusion: To your syrup, add a teaspoon each of blueberry, raspberry, and blackberry extracts. The goal? A harmonious berry melody that’s both refreshing and deep.
Acidity Adjustment: Stir in a pinch of citric acid. This isn’t just for tang—it helps preserve the vibrant hues of your drink too.
The Caffeine Kick: Whisk in a scant teaspoon of green coffee bean extract powder. It’s subtle but spirited, giving you a gentle nudge of energy.
Color Me Blue: Time for the magic! Add a small teaspoon of blue spirulina powder to the mix. Stir well until the color is as vivid as a morning sky.
Chill and Serve: Pour the mixture into a tall glass over ice, filling it up about halfway.
Top It Off: Gently add water or sparkling water for a fizzy lift, filling the glass to the top.
Final Flourish: Sprinkle a spoonful of raspberry pearls over the top. Watch them bob and weave through your creation like little rubies.
Pro Tips to Elevate Your Drink:
Chill Your Tools: Pop those glasses in the fridge a bit before serving. This keeps your drink colder and longer!
Experiment with Extracts: Feel free to adjust the ratios of extracts depending on what berry flavors hit the right note for you.
Sparkle and Fizz: Swap still water with sparkling water to introduce a playful effervescence that tickles the palate.
Serving Style: Serve in a clear glass to show off that mesmerizing blue hue. It’s half the fun!
What to serve with
When you pair this heavenly hydrangea-blue sipper with the right eats, it’s like your taste buds are throwing their very own beach party. Here’s the rundown on what to plate up with your refreshing creation:
For the Sweet Tooth:
Mini Fruit Tarts – Little bursts of fruit atop a crumbly, buttery base? Yes, please! These bite-sized treats are the side-kick your Summer Skies Drink deserves.
Macarons: These delicate French cookies come in all shades and flavors. Choose ones that compliment the drink’s citrusy undertones, like lemon or mango. It’s a little nod to summer that’ll make your dessert spread wink!
For the Savory Fan:
Caprese Skewers – cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, a drizzle of ballistic—each skewer is a little high-five for your palate. Plus, they’re easy to mingle with, no fork necessary!
Veggie Spring Rolls with a Sweet Chili Dip – Fresh, crunchy, and wrapped in a translucent roll. They’re the food equivalent of a light breeze by the shoreline. And that dip? It’s the sunset to the spring roll’s beachside day.
For the Bold and Brash:
Cajun Shrimp Guacamole Bites: Seafood and summer go hand in hand, don’t they? These fiery little numbers on a bed of creamy guac are a one-way ticket to Flavor Town. Strap in!
Charcuterie Board – A canvas of cured meats, artisan cheeses, olives, and nuts? Unleash your inner artist and create a board that looks as good as it tastes—the perfect wingman for your drink.
For the Health-Conscious:
Kale Chips: Earthy, salty, and a crunch that echoes through the ages. They’re chips, but not as we know them. A guilt-free companion to your new favorite drink.
Chilled Cucumber Sandwiches: As traditional as they are refreshing. Forget the crusts; we’re keeping it cool and casual.
For the All-Out Feasters:
BBQ Sliders – Why not? Tiny burgers with a smoky sweet sauce. These little contenders are just the thing to sink your teeth into between sips of summer sky.
Grilled Veggie Platter – Zucchini, bell peppers, asparagus, oh my! A little char, a pinch of salt, and you’ve got yourself a garden party on a platter.
Final Thoughts
There you have it, your very own Starbucks Summer Skies Drink, ready to dazzle taste buds and add a splash of color to any day. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a quiet moment by the window, this drink is sure to whisk you away to bluer skies and brighter days.
Water: The unsung hero. It forms the base of our drink, so let’s keep it nice and pure.
Granulated sugar: Sweetness is key! This trusty pantry staple will balance the tangy flavors.
Blueberry extract: For that deep, fruity undertone that makes you think of sun-kissed berry patches.
Raspberry extract: Adds a bright pop of flavor, like a cheerful burst of summer.
Blackberry extract: Gives a mature twist with its earthy and tart goodness.
Citric acid: This is our secret weapon for that kick, mimicking the zesty vibe of fresh citrus without the pulp.
Green coffee bean extract powder: A nod to Starbucks' roots—it adds a slight caffeinated lift without overwhelming the fruity jubilation.
Blue spirulina powder: Nature’s paint. It transforms the drink into a sky-blue wonder without altering the taste.
Raspberry pearls: These little jewels are the cherry on top, adding a crunchy, fun burst with each sip.
Instructions
Sweet Syrup Creation: Kick things off by making a simple syrup. Combine 1 part water to 1 part granulated sugar in a saucepan. Heat until the sugar dissolves. Let this mixture cool off to room temperature.
Flavor Fusion: To your syrup, add a teaspoon each of blueberry, raspberry, and blackberry extracts. The goal? A harmonious berry melody that’s both refreshing and deep.
Acidity Adjustment: Stir in a pinch of citric acid. This isn’t just for tang—it helps preserve the vibrant hues of your drink too.
The Caffeine Kick: Whisk in a scant teaspoon of green coffee bean extract powder. It’s subtle but spirited, giving you a gentle nudge of energy.
Color Me Blue: Time for the magic! Add a small teaspoon of blue spirulina powder to the mix. Stir well until the color is as vivid as a morning sky.
Chill and Serve: Pour the mixture into a tall glass over ice, filling it up about halfway.
Top It Off: Gently add water or sparkling water for a fizzy lift, filling the glass to the top.
Final Flourish: Sprinkle a spoonful of raspberry pearls over the top. Watch them bob and weave through your creation like little rubies.
Meet Sandra, a bartender with a passion for mixology and storytelling. Born and raised in Miami, Sandra's fascination with flavors and spirits began at a young age, inspired by the vibrant culture of her hometown.
