Summer Skies Drink: Full Review (Including Calories and Cost)
Starbucks Summer Skies drink is a colorful and creamy drink that is made with three main ingredients:
- Coconut milk
- Berry flavors
- Popping pearls.
Due to them, this drink is fun to look at and even more fun to sip. However, I’ve noticed some issues with the Starbucks Summer Skies drink. In this review, I’ll discuss its appearance, texture, flavor, calories, problems, and much more.
That’s not it. Want to know the Summer Skies drink recipe? Here, you will also get to know easy steps and effective tips as well.
Key Points
- The Summer Skies Drink combines creamy coconut milk with fruity berry flavors.
- It’s priced at $6.45 and is a popular summer choice.
- The drink stands out with its bright blue base and popping pearls.
- You can make it at home with berry syrups, coconut milk, and ice.
- Variations include adding lemonade, blending it, or swapping popping pearls for boba.
Starbucks Summer Skies Drink Review: Everything to Know
The Summer Skies Drink looks stunning with its bright blue base and shiny popping pearls. The creamy coconut milk blends nicely with berry flavors. However, the tartness of the pearls can overpower the drink.
It’s refreshing and fun to try, but the flavors don’t always work together for everyone.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Flavor Profile | Refreshing, Citrusy, Sweet, Mildly Tangy |
| Appearance | Bright blue with a fizzy, cloud-like effect |
| Ideal For | Summer parties, beach outings, casual gatherings |
| Preparation Time | 5-7 minutes |
| Key Garnish | Mint leaves, lemon slices, or edible flowers |
| Popularity | Trending for summer-themed events |
| Overall Rating | 7/10 |
Appearance & Presentation
The first thing I noticed about the Summer Skies Drink was how pretty it looked. The blue color of the base really stands out, and the little bits of pink and purple from the berries look nice as well. It instantly made me think of a summer sky—bright, fresh, and cheerful.
Honestly, it’s the kind of drink that makes you want to take a picture before even taking a sip.
The popping pearls on top looked shiny and playful. They added a fun touch that made the drink feel special. The clear cup Starbucks uses really helps show off the colors, so you get to see all the layers perfectly. It’s clear that this drink was made to look “Instagram-worthy.”
That said, not everyone might like how bold the drink looks. If you’re someone who prefers plain or simple drinks, this one might feel a bit over-the-top. But for me, it was exciting to hold something so bright and fun.
The only downside I noticed was that the pearls sink to the bottom as you drink, and they don’t look as nice after a while. Still, it’s definitely one of the most eye-catching drinks Starbucks has made.
Flavor Profile
When I took my first sip, the coconut milk stood out right away. It’s creamy and just a bit sweet.
Then I started tasting the berry flavors – raspberry, blueberry, and blackberry. The base is light and fruity, which makes it refreshing, especially on a warm day. It reminded me of eating a bowl of mixed berries with a splash of cream.
But here’s where it got tricky: the popping pearls. They’re filled with raspberry juice, and the flavor is much stronger than the base. Every time I bit into one, the tartness from the pearls took over. I felt like the pearls were competing with the rest of the drink instead of blending in.
If you like sweet and tart flavors together, you might really enjoy the pearls. For me, though, they didn’t work. The creamy base and the tangy pearls felt like two different drinks in one cup. I think the base would have been perfect on its own or with something milder on top.
Overall, the flavors are fun and different, but they don’t always work together. The base is the highlight for me, while the pearls felt like an unnecessary addition.
Texture
The texture of this drink is definitely something different. The base is smooth and creamy, which I really liked. It feels light, not heavy like some other creamy drinks. If the drink stopped there, I think the texture would have been perfect.
But then you have the popping pearls. They’re chewy at first, and then they burst with juice when you bite into them.
At first, I thought it was fun. It’s like a little surprise in every sip. But after a while, I started to feel like the pearls were too much. They didn’t really match the smoothness of the base.
By the end of the drink, I had a lot of pearls left at the bottom. It felt like there were too many compared to the liquid. If they had added fewer pearls, the drink would have felt more balanced. For someone who loves bubble tea, this texture might be a hit. But for me, I think I would have preferred a smoother, more consistent sip.
Summer Skies Drink Caffeine Content
One thing I appreciated about this drink is the gentle caffeine boost it gives. A Grande size has 50 milligrams of caffeine, which is about half of what you’d get in a regular cup of coffee. For me, it’s the perfect amount for a little afternoon energy without feeling jittery.
It’s also great for people who don’t like strong coffee but still want something to keep them going. I think it would even work for teens who want a light caffeine option. I had mine in the middle of the day, and it gave me just enough energy to stay alert without making me feel wired.
If you’re sensitive to caffeine or just looking for a mild pick-me-up, this drink is a good choice. And if you don’t want caffeine at all, you could probably ask for a version without it. Starbucks is usually pretty good about customizing drinks to suit your preferences.
Summer Skies Drink Nutrition Facts
Here are the nutrition facts for a Grande size:
- 150 calories
- 2.5 grams of fat
- 2.5 grams of saturated fat
- 0 cholesterol
- 105 milligrams of sodium
- 31 grams of carbs
- 29 grams of sugar
- 1 gram of fiber
- 50 milligrams of caffeine
For a treat, these numbers aren’t too bad. The calorie count is low enough that you can enjoy it without feeling like you overindulged. The sugar is on the higher side, but that’s pretty normal for a fruity Starbucks drink. I didn’t find it overly sweet, though, which was a nice surprise.
The coconut milk adds a bit of fat, but it’s what makes the drink creamy. If you’re watching your sugar intake, the popping pearls are something to keep in mind (since they add to the sweetness).
For me, the drink felt like a good balance between being a fun treat and not going overboard.
Summer Skies Drink Calories
At 150 calories, this drink feels light and refreshing. It’s a nice option if you’re looking for something creamy and fruity without too many calories. Compared to a frappuccino, which can have double or even triple the calories, this drink feels much lighter.
I think the coconut milk is what helps keep the calorie count low while still giving the drink a satisfying texture. It feels indulgent but not heavy, which makes it perfect for summer.
For me, the calorie count was just right. It’s enough to feel like I’m treating myself, but it doesn’t make me feel guilty. If you’re counting calories, you might even ask for fewer pearls to lower the number a bit more.
My Overall Starbucks Summer Skies Drink Rating: 7/10
The Summer Skies Drink is fun, refreshing, and definitely eye-catching. I loved the creamy coconut milk base and the way the drink looked like a piece of summer in a cup. But the popping pearls didn’t work for me. They were too tart and didn’t blend well with the rest of the drink.
If you’re curious, I think it’s worth trying at least once to see if you like it. But for me, I’d skip the pearls next time and stick to the base. It’s the part of the drink that really shines.
Looking for more drink inspiration? If you enjoy refreshing drinks like Summer Skies, you’ll love my detailed Starbucks Caramel Vanilla Swirl Iced Coffee review.
Summer Skies Drink Price: Purchased Price: $6.45
The Summer Skies Drink costs $6.45. For a Starbucks drink, this price is pretty normal, especially for their specialty drinks. At this price, it’s similar to other popular Starbucks drinks like the Pink Drink or Dragon Drink. It’s not a basic coffee or tea, so the cost is higher.
You’re also getting something that feels special and summery, which adds to the value.
For me, $6.45 felt okay for an occasional splurge. The drink is fun to try, and it feels more like an experience than just a drink. However, if you’re on a budget, this might not be something you buy often.
Summer Skies Drink Recipe: How Can You Make it At Home?
To make Summer Skies drink, mix coconut milk with:
- Raspberry
- Blueberry
- Blackberry syrups.
After this, shake it with ice and then pour over raspberry-flavored popping pearls. You can then enjoy the colorful, creamy, and fruity treat.
Gather Ingredients
Before you start, you need to gather Summer Skies drink ingredients. Here’s the list:
- Coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon raspberry syrup
- 1 tablespoon blueberry syrup
- 1 tablespoon blackberry syrup
- 1 cup of ice cubes
- 2 tablespoons raspberry-flavored popping pearls (these are the fun, bursting bubbles)
- A clear cup to show off the drink’s colors
You can find the syrups at grocery stores or online. The popping pearls might be a little harder to find, but bubble tea supply shops or online stores usually have them. They’re the key to giving this drink its fun texture, so I recommend using them if you can.
Before you start mixing, measure everything out and keep it ready. Trust me, it makes the whole process easier. Once everything’s on the counter, you’re all set to make this summery drink.
Mix the Base
Now it’s time to mix the base of the drink.
First, grab a shaker or a large glass. Pour in 1 cup of coconut milk. If you’re using unsweetened coconut milk but prefer a sweeter drink, add a little sugar or honey at this point.
Next, add the berry syrups – raspberry, blueberry, and blackberry. Each syrup brings its own flavor, so you get a nice mix of fruity tastes. If you don’t have all three syrups, you can still make the drink with just one or two. It won’t taste exactly the same, but it’ll still be good.
Add some ice to the shaker. The ice will chill the drink, and help mix everything together. Close the shaker tightly and give it a good shake for 15-20 seconds. If you don’t have a shaker, use a spoon to stir everything well in a glass.
The goal is to combine the syrups and coconut milk until it’s smooth and even.
Once mixed, you’ll see the creamy, light blue color starting to form. That’s the magic of the berry syrups mixing with the coconut milk. Now you’re ready to move on to the fun part—assembling the drink.
Assemble the Drink
This is where the drink comes together. It’s also the part where it starts to look like the Summer Skies Drink you’d get at Starbucks.
First, take your clear cup. The clear cup is important because it lets you see all the pretty layers and colors.
Start by adding two tablespoons of raspberry-flavored popping pearls to the bottom of the cup. These pearls are what make the drink fun to sip.
Next, pour the mixed base over the popping pearls. Do this slowly so the colors stay bright and don’t mix too much at the bottom. As the base fills the cup, you’ll see the popping pearls at the bottom and the creamy blue color of the drink above them. It looks just like a summer sky.
If you want to make it even fancier, just put fresh berries or a sprig of mint on top. It’s optional, but it makes the drink look extra nice. Make sure to serve it with a wide straw so you can easily sip up the pearls.
Enjoy Your Drink
Now comes the best part – enjoying the drink! Take your cup, grab a seat, and sip away. The first thing you’ll taste is the creamy coconut milk base. It’s smooth, refreshing, and lightly sweet with a fruity twist.
Then, as you sip, you’ll start to get the popping pearls. They burst with raspberry flavor.
I think this drink is perfect for a hot day. It feels light and refreshing, not heavy like some other creamy drinks. The bright colors and fun pearls make it feel special, even though it’s so easy to make at home.
The best part about making the Summer Skies Drink yourself is that you can adjust it. If you want it sweeter, add more syrup. If you’re not into popping pearls, leave them out. It’s totally up to you. Either way, you’ve got a fun, refreshing drink that’s perfect for summer.
For another summer-inspired treat, read about my experience with the Sonic Orange Cream Slush. It’s as refreshing as Summer Skies.
Summer Skies Drink Lemonade
The Summer Skies Drink Lemonade is a twist on the original drink. It combines the creamy coconut milk and berry flavors with a splash of lemonade.
When I tried this version, I noticed how the tartness of the lemonade worked well with the smooth coconut milk. It brightened the flavor and made the drink feel lighter.
To make Summer Skies lemonade drink at home, simply replace half of the coconut milk with your favorite lemonade. Shake it all together, and you’ll get a creamy, fruity, and tangy treat.
Visually, the lemonade also enhances the drink. Here’s a picture:
If you like drinks that combine sweet and sour, this is definitely worth a try.
What Are the Best Tips to Perfect the Look of a Summer Skies Drink?
To perfect the look of a Summer Skies Drink, follow these tips:
- Use a clear cup
- Layer ingredients slowly
- Garnish with fresh berries or mint.
You can also add popping pearls for a colorful touch, and serve with a wide straw to keep it looking and tasting great.
1. Use a Clear Cup
Using a clear cup is the best way to show off this drink’s beautiful colors. The blue base, the popping pearls at the bottom, and the garnishes on top all stand out more in a clear cup.
When I made this drink, I used a simple glass cup, and it made the layers look amazing. You can see every detail—the creamy base, the pearls, and the bright colors. If you use a regular mug or opaque cup, you lose that stunning look.
A tall, straight-sided cup works best. It helps keep the drink neat, and the layers don’t mix as much. If you’re serving the drink to guests, the clear cup will definitely impress them.
2. Layer the Ingredients Slowly
Layering is key to making the drink look good. If you pour everything too fast, the colors will mix, and it won’t look as nice.
When I made mine, I added the popping pearls first. Then I poured the coconut milk base slowly over them. If you’re adding lemonade or syrups, do it gently. Pour over the back of a spoon to keep the layers separate.
It only takes a little extra time, but it makes the drink look much better.
3. Add Fresh Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can make your drink look even better. A few fresh berries add a pop of color.
When I made this at home, I added a sprig of mint and a few raspberries on top. It made the drink look fresh and summery. You can also try a slice of lemon or lime if you’re making the lemonade version.
Garnishes don’t just make the drink prettier. They also make it feel more special, like something you’d order at a fancy café. They’re simple but add a lot.
4. Use Popping Pearls for a Fun Look
The popping pearls are what gives the drink its playful look. They sit at the bottom of the clear cup and catch the light, making the drink stand out.
When I added the pearls, they looked like little jewels. I used raspberry-flavored pearls, but you can use other flavors if you want. Just make sure to add them first. The reason? So that they stay at the bottom and don’t mix with the rest of the drink.
5. Serve with a Wide Straw
A wide straw completes the look. Regular straws won’t work with popping pearls because they’re too small.
When I used a bubble tea straw, it made sipping easy and fun. It’s perfect for enjoying both the creamy drink and the pearls. A spoon works too, but the wide straw is better for the full experience.
For a creative drink idea, try the Strawberry Horchata Chai. It’s a bold choice to follow your Summer Skies recipe.
Are There Variations of Summer Skies Drinks You Should Try?
There are several variations of the Summer Skies Drink. Try adding lemonade, swapping coconut milk for almond milk, using sparkling water, blending it into a frozen drink, or replacing popping pearls with tapioca boba. Each version brings a unique twist.
1. Lemonade Version
Adding lemonade to the Summer Skies Drink gives it a tangy twist. Just replace half the coconut milk with lemonade.
When I tried this, I loved how the tart lemonade balanced the sweet berry flavors.
2. Plant-Based Milk Options
If coconut milk isn’t your favorite, try almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk instead. I swapped the coconut milk for plant-based milk once, and it made the drink lighter. I prefer oat milk, as it has a creamy texture. You can also choose soy milk because it has a neutral taste.
3. Sparkling Summer Skies
For a fizzy version, use sparkling water instead of coconut milk. I tried this once, and it felt like a fun berry soda. The bubbles made the drink light and refreshing. It’s great if you want something less creamy but still flavorful.
4. Blended Summer Skies
You can turn the drink into a slushie by blending the ingredients with ice. I made this on a really hot day, and it was like a fruity milkshake. The frozen texture was so refreshing, and the popping pearls still worked great with the icy base.
5. Classic Boba Swap
Swap the popping pearls for traditional tapioca boba if you want a chewy texture. I tried this variation, and it felt more like a bubble tea. The boba made the drink more filling, and it was a fun change from the original.
Conclusion
The Key Takeaways are:
- The Summer Skies Drink is a vibrant blend of coconut milk, berry flavors, and popping pearls.
- It’s priced at $6.45, making it a fun treat for summer days.
- You can recreate it at home with syrups, popping pearls, and coconut milk.
- Adding lemonade, sparkling water, or other variations can customize the drink.
- Its look is perfected by using clear cups, slow layering, and garnishes.
This drink is all about creativity, fun, and a taste of summer.
