The 7Brew Pink Starburst drink is a refreshingly fruity beverage inspired by the iconic pink Starburst candy but crafted without any added sugar. This recipe balances natural sweetness with tartness, making it a perfect guilt-free treat that works well as a summer refresher or a flavorful pick-me-up any time of day.
Ingredients
- 1 cup brewed black tea, cooled (preferably strong Assam or Darjeeling)
- 1/2 cup fresh pink grapefruit juice (strained)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (strained)
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (strained)
- 1/2 teaspoon natural stevia extract powder or liquid (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sparkling water (chilled)
- Ice cubes as needed
- Optional garnish: thin slices of pink grapefruit or lemon peel
Instructions
- Brew the tea: Start by brewing 1 cup of strong black tea. Use about 1.5 teaspoons of loose tea or 1 tea bag. Steep in 1 cup of hot water (around 200°F or 93°C) for 4-5 minutes, then remove the leaves or tea bag. Let it cool to room temperature.
- Prepare fresh juices: While the tea cools, juice the pink grapefruit, lemon, and orange. Strain each juice through a fine mesh sieve to remove pulp and seeds for a smooth drink.
- Mix base ingredients: In a large glass or shaker, combine the cooled black tea, pink grapefruit juice, lemon juice, orange juice, stevia extract, and vanilla extract. Stir or shake well to blend all flavors evenly.
- Adjust sweetness: Taste the mixture and add more stevia if you prefer a sweeter drink. Remember that the sparkling water added later will dilute the flavor slightly.
- Chill and carbonate: Add ice cubes to a serving glass. Pour the juice and tea mixture over the ice, then top it with chilled sparkling water. Stir gently to combine without losing carbonation.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with a thin slice of pink grapefruit or a twist of lemon peel for a decorative and aromatic touch. Serve immediately for the best fizz and freshness.
Tips
- Stevia alternatives: If you don’t have stevia, monk fruit sweetener or erythritol can also be used in similar small amounts to maintain the no-sugar profile.
- Juice substitution: If fresh citrus is unavailable, use 100% natural no-sugar-added citrus juice, but fresh juice is recommended for best flavor and brightness.
- Tea choice: While black tea is traditional, you can use green tea or rooibos for different flavor notes. Just ensure it’s brewed strong enough to hold up against the citrus.
- Carbonation tips: Add sparkling water just before serving to keep the drink fizzy. If you prepare in advance, keep the base mixture refrigerated and carbonate when ready.
Serving Suggestions
This refreshing 7Brew Pink Starburst drink is ideal served over ice on a hot day or as a light, flavorful midday pick-me-up. It pairs excellently with light snacks like fresh fruit, yogurt parfaits, or low-fat cheese plates. For brunch, serve alongside avocado toast or a spinach salad with citrus vinaigrette to complement the drink’s bright flavors.
Variations
To customize this drink, try adding fresh herbs such as mint or basil for an herbal twist. For a creamy version, blend in a splash of unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk, which adds a silky texture while keeping the sugar content low. If you prefer a cold-brew base, substitute the hot brewed tea with cold-brewed black tea for a smoother, less bitter profile. Another variation is to swap sparkling water with flavored seltzer (like lemon or berry) to enhance the fruity notes.
Storage and Reheating
This drink is best enjoyed fresh to maintain its carbonation and bright citrus flavors. You can store the tea and juice mixture (without sparkling water or ice) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, stir the mixture well, add fresh ice and sparkling water. Avoid storing the fully mixed drink with carbonation, as it will quickly go flat. Reheating is not recommended since the drink is intended cold and reheating would alter the flavor and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this drink without any sweetener?
Yes, you can omit the stevia or any sweetener if you prefer a more tart, natural citrus flavor. Keep in mind that the drink will be less candy-like and more refreshing and acidic.
Is there a way to make this drink vegan and keto-friendly?
Absolutely. This recipe is naturally vegan since it contains no animal products. Using stevia or monk fruit sweetener keeps it keto-friendly by avoiding sugar and carbs.
What if I don’t have fresh grapefruit or lemons?
If fresh citrus is unavailable, use 100% pure, no-sugar-added bottled citrus juices, but fresh juice is preferred for optimal flavor and brightness.
How important is the vanilla extract in this recipe?
Vanilla extract adds a subtle sweetness and complexity that mimics the candy-like flavor of pink Starburst. While optional, it enhances the overall profile and helps balance the tartness from the citrus.
Can I prepare this drink in larger batches for a party?
Yes. Prepare the tea and juice mixture in advance and refrigerate in a sealed container. Add ice and sparkling water just before serving to keep it fizzy and fresh.
What type of sparkling water works best?
Plain sparkling water is ideal to avoid extra flavors clashing with the citrus. However, lightly flavored seltzers like lemon or berry can add an interesting twist if desired.
By following this recipe, you can enjoy a flavorful, sugar-free take on the beloved 7Brew Pink Starburst drink, perfect for those seeking a refreshing treat without added sugars. Experiment with the variations and tips to find your perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
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