The 7brew Pink Starburst cold brew recipe captures the bright, fruity essence of the beloved candy in a smooth, refreshing coffee beverage. Using the cold brew method extracts a mellow coffee base that balances the sweet, tangy notes reminiscent of Pink Starburst, making it perfect for warm days or anytime you want a unique twist on your coffee routine.
Ingredients
- 1 cup coarsely ground medium roast coffee beans
- 4 cups cold filtered water
- 1/2 cup pink Starburst candies (approximately 10 pieces), chopped
- 1/4 cup simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Ice cubes
- Optional: 1/4 cup milk or cream (dairy or plant-based)
Instructions
- Prepare the Starburst infusion: In a small saucepan, combine the chopped pink Starburst candies with 1 cup of water. Heat gently over low heat, stirring frequently until the candies dissolve completely, creating a sweet pink syrup. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
- Combine coffee and water: In a large jar or cold brew vessel, add the coarsely ground coffee. Pour in the remaining 3 cups of cold filtered water and stir gently to ensure all grounds are saturated.
- Add the Starburst syrup: Once cooled, add the pink Starburst syrup to the coffee and water mixture. Stir well to combine the flavors evenly.
- Steep: Cover the jar tightly and refrigerate for 16 to 20 hours. This long steeping time allows the coffee to extract slowly and absorb the candy’s fruity sweetness without bitterness.
- Strain the cold brew: After steeping, strain the coffee mixture through a fine mesh sieve lined with a coffee filter or cheesecloth into a clean container to remove grounds and any candy residue.
- Add flavorings: Stir in the simple syrup and vanilla extract. Adjust sweetness by adding more simple syrup if desired.
- Serve: Fill a glass with ice cubes, pour the pink Starburst cold brew over the ice, and add milk or cream if preferred. Stir gently and enjoy immediately.
Tips
- Substitutions: If you can’t find pink Starburst, try using other similar fruity candies like strawberry or watermelon-flavored gummies. Adjust sweetness accordingly.
- Grinding coffee: Use a coarse grind to prevent over-extraction and bitterness in your cold brew.
- Storage: Store the strained cold brew concentrate in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Common mistake: Avoid steeping the coffee longer than 24 hours as it may develop harsh flavors and bitterness.
Serving Suggestions
This refreshing pink Starburst cold brew is best served chilled over ice. For a creamier texture, add milk, cream, or a plant-based alternative like oat or almond milk. Garnish with a few whole pink Starburst candies on the rim or a small slice of fresh strawberry for a playful presentation. It pairs well with light breakfast pastries or fruity desserts.
Variations
For a sparkling twist, mix the strained cold brew concentrate with sparkling water instead of still water for a fizzy coffee soda. You can also blend the cold brew with ice and a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create a Pink Starburst coffee float. Another option is to infuse the simple syrup with fresh mint or basil for an herbal note that complements the candy’s fruitiness.
Storage and Reheating
Store the prepared cold brew concentrate in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Keep any leftover pink Starburst syrup separately in a small jar for up to 2 weeks. Because this is a cold brew beverage, reheating isn’t recommended as it will lose the delicate fruity balance and smoothness. Instead, enjoy it cold or over ice for the best taste experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use hot brewed coffee instead of cold brew for this recipe?
Hot brewed coffee will not produce the same smooth and mellow flavor profile as cold brew. The cold brew method extracts less acidity and bitterness, which is important to balance the sweetness of the Starburst syrup. If you use hot coffee, it may taste too sharp or overly sweet.
How do I make simple syrup at home?
Simple syrup is easy to make by dissolving equal parts granulated sugar and water over low heat until the sugar fully dissolves. Let it cool before using. It helps sweeten cold beverages evenly without graininess.
Can I adjust the sweetness of this cold brew?
Yes, sweetness can be adjusted by varying the amount of Starburst candies used in the syrup and the amount of simple syrup added after brewing. Start with the recipe amounts and taste before adding more sweetener.
Is it necessary to strain the cold brew twice?
For the cleanest flavor and texture, straining twice—first through a coarse sieve and then through a fine mesh or coffee filter—is recommended. This removes fine grounds and candy residue that can affect mouthfeel.
Can I prepare this cold brew in a regular coffee maker?
Regular drip coffee makers are not designed for cold brew extraction, which requires long steeping at low temperatures. However, you can use a dedicated cold brew coffee maker or a simple jar and strainer as described in the instructions.
Will the pink Starburst flavor be very strong?
The flavor is intended to be a subtle fruity sweetness that complements the coffee rather than overpowering it. The long cold brew process mellows the coffee and infuses the candy notes gently. If you prefer a stronger candy flavor, increase the amount of Starburst syrup slightly.
This 7brew Pink Starburst cold brew recipe offers a creative way to enjoy coffee with a nostalgic fruity twist. The cold brew method ensures a smooth, balanced drink that highlights the candy’s signature flavor without excess sweetness or bitterness. Experiment with the syrup concentration and milk additions to find your perfect refreshment.
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