When it comes to refreshing beverages, Starbucks knows how to create drinks that excite the taste buds. One of the most underrated yet delightful items on the Starbucks menu is the Black Tea with Strawberry—a simple yet flavourful blend of robust tea leaves and sweet, tangy strawberry notes. Whether you’re looking for an afternoon pick-me-up, a caffeine fix with a fruity twist, or just something light to sip on during a sunny day, this drink checks all the boxes.
In this blog post, we’ll explore what makes Starbucks Black Tea with Strawberry so popular, its flavour profile, health aspects, customizations, and even secret menu variations.
What Is Starbucks Black Tea with Strawberry?
At its core, this drink is a fusion of Starbucks’ signature brewed black tea and a strawberry-flavoured syrup or puree, served over ice. The result is a refreshing cold beverage with just the right balance of bitterness from the tea and fruity sweetness from the strawberry.
Depending on location, you might also find it under different names, such as:
- Iced Black Tea with Strawberry
- Black Tea Lemonade with Strawberry (when mixed with lemonade)
- Strawberry Black Tea Refresher (in some international Starbucks menus)
Flavour Profile – Bold Meets Berry Sweetness
One of the reasons fans love this drink is its perfectly layered flavour experience.
- Black Tea Base – Slightly malty, rich, and full-bodied.
- Strawberry Flavouring – Sweet, slightly tart, and juicy.
- Iced Chill Factor – Makes it a crisp, thirst-quenching drink.
The strawberry tones soften the natural bitterness of the tea, making it enjoyable even for people who aren’t usually tea drinkers.
Nutritional Facts & Calories
While the calorie count can vary depending on your customization, here’s a general estimate for a Grande (16 fl oz) Starbucks Black Tea with Strawberry:
| Nutritional Element | Approximate Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 60–90 |
| Sugar | 12–18g |
| Caffeine | 25–30mg |
| Fat | 0g |
| Protein | 0g |
Pro tip: Ask for sugar-free strawberry syrup or light syrup to reduce calories and sugar content.
How It’s Made – Behind the Counter at Starbucks
Baristas typically follow these steps to make the drink:
- Brewed Iced Black Tea – Freshly brewed and cooled, or from a chilled tea concentrate.
- Strawberry Syrup or Purée – Added for flavour and sweetness.
- Ice & Shake – Everything is shaken together for a balanced taste.
- Optional Add-ins – Lemonade, coconut milk, or other fruit inclusions.
Popular Customizations
Starbucks’ magic lies in customization, and the Black Tea with Strawberry is no exception. Some fan-favorite tweaks include:
Black Tea Lemonade with Strawberry
Adding lemonade gives the drink a sweet-tart kick, perfect for hot summer days.
Coconut Milk Twist
For a creamy, tropical vibe, ask for a splash of coconut milk.
Strawberry & Peach Combo
Mix strawberry syrup with peach syrup for a double-fruit burst.
The “Pink Tea” Secret Menu Version
Order Black Tea with strawberry purée and coconut milk—it turns pink and tastes like a fruity milk tea.
Why Tea Lovers Adore It
Tea enthusiasts appreciate this drink for its complex yet approachable flavour. Black tea brings in natural antioxidants, while strawberries add a comforting sweetness. Plus, it’s lower in caffeine than coffee, making it a great afternoon drink that won’t keep you up all night.
Is Starbucks Black Tea with Strawberry Healthy?
While “healthy” can be subjective, this drink has some clear benefits:
- Lower Calories than many Starbucks frappuccinos and lattes.
- Contains Antioxidants from black tea, which may support heart health.
- Hydrating and refreshing without heavy dairy.
Tip: To make it healthier, go light on syrup, or opt for sugar-free strawberry syrup if available.
Perfect Occasions for This Drink
This drink fits almost any scenario, but it shines especially when:
- You want a caffeine boost without the jitters.
- You need something light and fruity to pair with a pastry.
- It’s a hot summer afternoon and you’re craving something cold.
International Variations
Around the globe, Starbucks puts its own twist on the Black Tea with Strawberry:
- Japan – May add lychee or sakura syrup.
- UK – Often blended with hibiscus tea for a berry punch.
- Philippines – Sometimes topped with cream foam for texture.
Pairing Ideas – Snacks That Go Well with It
If you’re enjoying this drink at Starbucks or at home, here are some perfect pairings:
- Almond Croissant – Complements the tea’s nutty undertones.
- Chocolate Chip Cookie – Sweetness plays well with the fruit notes.
- Light Salad – A refreshing lunch combo.
How to Make Starbucks Black Tea with Strawberry at Home
If you want to recreate it without leaving the house:
Ingredients:
- 2 black tea bags (or loose leaf)
- 1–2 tbsp strawberry syrup or puree
- Ice cubes
- Optional: lemonade or coconut milk
Instructions:
- Brew black tea and let it cool.
- Add strawberry syrup or puree.
- Fill a shaker or jar with ice, pour in the tea, and shake.
- Pour into a glass and enjoy.
The Social Media Buzz
Search “Starbucks Black Tea with Strawberry” on TikTok or Instagram and you’ll find countless reviews and hacks. Influencers often showcase colorful versions, making it a photogenic favorite for Instagram feeds.
Final Thoughts – A Hidden Gem in the Starbucks Menu
While it may not have the fame of the Pink Drink or Pumpkin Spice Latte, the Starbucks Black Tea with Strawberry deserves a spot in your regular rotation. It’s light, flavourful, and endlessly customizable.
If you haven’t tried it yet, your next Starbucks run might just have a new favorite waiting for you.
