The Pink Starburst 7Brew is a refreshing, fruity coffee-based drink that combines the bold flavors of cold brew coffee with sweet, tangy notes reminiscent of the beloved pink Starburst candy. Perfect for serving a large crowd, this recipe balances caffeine and sweetness to deliver a crowd-pleasing beverage that’s both energizing and delicious.
Ingredients
- 7 cups cold brew coffee concentrate
- 5 cups whole milk or milk alternative (almond, oat, or soy)
- 2 cups pink Starburst syrup (see instructions below)
- 1 cup simple syrup (1:1 sugar to water ratio)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Ice cubes (approximately 10 cups)
- Optional: whipped cream and pink Starburst candy pieces for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the pink Starburst syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of water, 2 cups of granulated sugar, and 15-20 pink Starburst candies (unwrapped). Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently until the candies completely dissolve and the mixture thickens slightly, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool. Strain through a fine mesh sieve to remove any residue. Refrigerate until ready to use.
- Mix the base: In a large beverage dispenser or punch bowl (at least 3 gallons capacity), combine the cold brew coffee concentrate, milk or milk alternative, pink Starburst syrup, simple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir gently but thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Add ice: Just before serving, add ice cubes to the beverage dispenser to chill the drink without diluting it too quickly. Stir gently to distribute the ice and cool the mixture.
- Serve: Provide cups or glasses alongside the dispenser. For a festive touch, top individual servings with whipped cream and garnish with small pieces of pink Starburst candy.
- Optional adjustment: Taste the drink before serving. If it’s too sweet, add more cold brew or milk. If it’s not sweet enough, add additional pink Starburst syrup or simple syrup in small increments.
Tips
- Syrup substitution: If you can’t find pink Starburst candies or want a quicker alternative, use pink fruit punch syrup or grenadine mixed with a small amount of strawberry or watermelon flavoring.
- Milk alternatives: Oat milk pairs especially well with cold brew and adds a creamy texture without overpowering the fruity notes. Almond milk works for a nuttier profile, but avoid soy milk if you want a lighter flavor.
- Cold brew concentrate strength: Adjust the ratio of cold brew concentrate to milk based on your preferred caffeine level and bitterness. For a milder drink, dilute more with milk.
- Storage: Keep the prepared drink refrigerated and covered if not serving immediately. Consume within 24 hours for best freshness and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Pink Starburst 7Brew is perfect for brunches, summer parties, or any casual gathering where guests want a sweet and caffeinated refreshment. Serve it chilled over ice in clear glasses to showcase its inviting pink hue. Garnishing with whipped cream and a few pink Starburst candies adds a playful, colorful touch that guests will love. It also pairs well with light pastries, fruit platters, or vanilla-flavored desserts.
Variations
To customize the Pink Starburst 7Brew for different tastes or occasions, consider these variations:
- Non-dairy version: Use coconut milk or cashew milk instead of dairy or oat milk for a tropical or creamier twist.
- Alcoholic option: Add a splash of vanilla vodka or rum to individual servings for an adult-friendly cocktail version.
- Fruity twist: Mix in a splash of fresh strawberry or watermelon juice for a brighter, fruitier flavor profile.
- Decaf option: Use decaffeinated cold brew concentrate to make a caffeine-free version suitable for all ages.
Storage and Reheating
Since this is a cold beverage, storage is straightforward. Store any leftover Pink Starburst 7Brew in a tightly sealed container or beverage dispenser in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Beyond this time, the fresh flavors and texture will start to degrade, especially the dairy components. Avoid freezing as it will alter the consistency and flavor of the milk and syrup.
If the drink separates or thickens slightly after refrigeration, stir it well before serving to recombine the ingredients. Do not heat the drink, as warming will spoil the cold brew and milk balance and diminish the refreshing quality of the beverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the Pink Starburst syrup in advance?
Yes, the syrup can be made up to one week ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld even better. Just re-stir before using to ensure it’s well mixed.
What is the best cold brew to use for this recipe?
A smooth, medium roast cold brew concentrate works best to balance the sweetness of the pink Starburst syrup without bitterness. Avoid overly dark or highly acidic brews as they can clash with the fruity notes.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely. Use a plant-based milk such as oat or almond milk and ensure your simple syrup and Starburst candies (or their substitutes) are vegan-friendly. Some Starburst candies contain gelatin, so check labels or use fruit syrups instead.
How much caffeine is in this drink?
The caffeine content depends on the cold brew concentrate used. On average, 7 cups of cold brew concentrate can contain roughly 700 mg of caffeine total, which is then diluted with milk and syrup. Serving size and dilution will affect the caffeine per serving; it’s advisable to inform guests and offer decaf alternatives.
Can I use regular brewed coffee instead of cold brew?
While possible, regular brewed coffee will not provide the same smooth, less acidic flavor that cold brew offers. If you use hot brewed coffee, cool it completely before mixing and serving over ice to avoid diluting the drink.
How do I scale this recipe for smaller groups?
This recipe is designed for large gatherings (approximately 15-20 servings). To make smaller batches, simply divide the ingredient quantities proportionally. Keep the syrup-to-coffee ratio consistent to maintain the flavor balance.
With its vibrant color and perfect balance of coffee and candy-inspired sweetness, the Pink Starburst 7Brew is sure to impress your guests and keep everyone refreshed. Whether for a summer party, brunch, or casual get-together, this recipe is easy to scale and customize to your crowd’s preferences.
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