Strawberry Yakult Tea Refresher Recipe

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Warm & Familiar Strawberry Yakult Tea Refresher Recipe

There’s something truly comforting about a drink that feels both fresh and gently indulgent, and that’s exactly what this Strawberry Yakult Tea Refresher Recipe offers. I love sipping this on a warm afternoon when the air carries a hint of spring—its vibrant strawberry sweetness blends so beautifully with the subtle floral notes of jasmine green tea.

As you make it together, you’ll notice how soothing the fragrant steam is from the tea, and how the velvety strawberry sauce adds a rich burst of flavor without overwhelming the palate. It’s a little ritual that turns ordinary moments into something special—perfect for sharing or savoring solo.

Trust me, this refresher quickly became a favorite—not just because it’s delicious, but because it’s surprisingly simple and adaptable. Whether you’re a tea lover or just dipping your toes into homemade drink creations, you’ll find it easy to follow and endlessly rewarding.

Ingredient Breakdown

• 1 cup Jasmine green tea steeped: The fragrant base that adds floral, lightly grassy notes; use any mild green tea as a substitute.
• 2 Yakult: This sweet, probiotic drink contributes creaminess and a gentle tang that lifts the refreshment.
• 1 cup strawberries (rough chopped): Provides natural sweetness and vibrant color; frozen berries can work but will need extra cooking time.
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Balances the tartness of the strawberries; swap with honey or agave for a deeper sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the sauce and helps preserve freshness, essential for that zesty snap.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and a subtle roundness that complements the strawberry’s brightness.

Before You Start

Planning ahead really smooths the process for this Strawberry Yakult Tea Refresher Recipe. I like to prepare all my ingredients beforehand—wash and chop the strawberries, measure sugar and lemon juice, and brew the tea just right (around 185°F) so it doesn’t taste bitter. Having everything ready means you’ll enjoy the cooking without scrambling.

How to Make Strawberry Yakult Tea Refresher Recipe

1. Steep the jasmine green tea: Pour 185°F hot water over the teabag and let it steep for 3-4 minutes. You’ll notice the delicate aroma filling your kitchen. Removing the bag promptly prevents bitterness. Then, pop the tea in the fridge to chill—it’s key for the final refreshment to taste crisp and cool.
2. Prepare the strawberry sauce: Rinse and roughly chop the strawberries. In a small saucepan, combine the strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. On medium-low heat, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer—listen for the soft bubbling and watch for the strawberries softening and releasing their juices.
3. Simmer into a puree: Lower the heat once bubbling starts, and stir continuously with a rubber spatula. This step gently breaks down the fruit while preventing it from sticking or burning. As you stir, you’ll see the texture shift from chunky to velvety—about 15-25 minutes to reach a luscious consistency. Be patient because this slow cooking develops a rich strawberry flavor.
4. Strain the sauce: Pour the sauce through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing gently to extract all the velvety goodness but leaving behind the seeds. This smooth texture makes every sip feel luxurious and easy-going.
🎯

Cook Like a Pro

Steeping your tea at just below boiling (185°F) is crucial to avoid bitterness and bring out those floral jasmine notes. While simmering the strawberry sauce, stir constantly—not just to prevent burning but to coax maximum flavor extraction. The smooth, seedless texture is well worth the extra step; it elevates this refresher from good to great. Also, chilling the tea fully before assembly keeps the drink perfectly refreshing without watering it down.

5. Assemble and serve: Combine the chilled jasmine tea, fresh strawberry sauce, and Yakult in a tall glass. Stir gently until the layers melt into a harmonious blend. Add plenty of ice—this chilling step is what turns it into a revitalizing treat. Feel free to top it with fresh strawberries or a sprig of mint for a pop of color and freshness.

Flavor Variations for Strawberry Yakult Tea Refresher Recipe

• Citrus Twist: Swap lemon juice for lime juice and add a thin slice of lime as garnish to boost the zesty brightness.
• Mint & Basil Fresco: Infuse fresh mint or basil leaves into the strawberry sauce for an herbal lift that balances the sweetness.
• Berry Medley: Mix in raspberries or blueberries with the strawberries to add complexity and more color.
• Honey & Ginger: Replace sugar with honey and add a teaspoon of freshly grated ginger to the sauce for a warming edge.
• Fizz It Up: Pour a splash of sparkling water over the finished refresher for a bubbly, summery take.

Storage, Freezer & Reheat Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftover strawberry sauce in an airtight container for up to 5 days; the flavors intensify when chilled.
• Freeze: You can freeze the sauce for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe bag; thaw overnight in the fridge and give it a good stir before use.
• Tea: Brew fresh tea each time if possible; chilled tea loses its brightness if kept longer than a day.
• Reheating: Warm the strawberry sauce gently over low heat to restore its velvety texture; avoid boiling which can change the taste.

Strawberry Yakult Tea Refresher Recipe FAQs

Q: Can I use other teas besides jasmine green tea?
Absolutely! Light green teas, white tea, or a mild oolong work wonderfully. Just adjust steeping times to prevent bitterness.

Q: What can I substitute for Yakult?
If Yakult isn’t available, try any probiotic yogurt drink or a mild, sweetened kefir. It adds that subtle tang and creaminess which is key.

Q: How sweet is this drink?
The sugar in the strawberry sauce balances the fruit’s tartness, but you can adjust to your liking or swap for natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.

Q: Can I make the strawberry sauce ahead?
Yes! It keeps well in the fridge and actually tastes even better the next day when the flavors meld.