There’s nothing quite as refreshing as a Strawberry Slush Drink on a warm day—bursting with sweet, tangy strawberry flavor and a frosty, velvety texture that melts on your tongue. This vibrant drink is a celebration of summer in a glass, blending the natural sweetness of strawberries with a hint of icy perfection. With just 8 hours of prep (mostly hands-off freezing) and 3 minutes of blending, it’s an effortless treat that feels indulgent yet light, at only 158 calories per serving.
Packed with vitamin C and a touch of natural fiber, this slush is as nourishing as it is delicious. The icy granules and smooth, fruity base create a delightful contrast, making every sip a mini escape. Whether you’re cooling off after a long day or hosting a backyard gathering, this drink is a crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is to love. Cheers to a sip of pure joy!
What You’ll Need for Strawberry Slush Drink
- 1 ½ cups sugar (adjust to taste if you prefer less sweetness)
- 6 cups water
- 2 (3 ounce) packages strawberry Jell-O (or any red gelatin flavor for variation)
- 46 ounces pineapple juice (canned or fresh)
- ⅔ cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed or bottled)
- 4 cups orange juice (preferably pulp-free for a smoother texture)
- 2 liters Sprite (or any lemon-lime soda; chill before using)
- Fresh strawberries (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Strawberry Slush Drink
- Prepare the base: In a large saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and strawberry Jell-O. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. Let it boil for 3 minutes, ensuring the sugar and gelatin are fully dissolved.
- Add juices: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the pineapple juice, lemon juice, and orange juice. Mix well until fully combined.
- Freeze: Divide the mixture evenly into two gallon-sized Ziploc bags or freezer-safe containers. Seal tightly and place in the freezer for at least 8 hours (or overnight). For a slushy consistency, avoid freezing solid.
- Thaw slightly: If the mixture is frozen solid, remove it from the freezer about 2 hours before serving to allow it to thaw slightly and achieve the perfect slushy texture.
- Assemble the drink: When ready to serve, transfer the slushy mixture into a large punch bowl. Pour in the chilled 2-liter Sprite and stir gently to combine. For larger crowds, you can add a second 2-liter of Sprite without compromising the flavor.
- Garnish and serve: Slice fresh strawberries and add them to the punch bowl for a fresh, fruity touch. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Creative Serving Suggestions
For a fun twist, serve your Strawberry Slush Drink in hollowed-out orange or pineapple halves as edible bowls. Garnish with fresh mint leaves or a slice of lemon for a pop of color. If you’re hosting a party, consider adding a splash of sparkling water or champagne for an adult-friendly version!
Storage and Freezing Tips
This slush mixture can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months, making it a great make-ahead option for parties. To maintain the perfect slushy texture, avoid letting it thaw completely. If it freezes solid, let it sit at room temperature for 1-2 hours before serving, then break it up with a wooden spoon or spatula.
Time-Saving Hacks
If you’re short on time, skip the stovetop step by using pre-made strawberry syrup instead of boiling sugar and Jell-O. You can also freeze the mixture in smaller portions in ice cube trays for quicker thawing. When ready to serve, blend the cubes briefly for a smooth slush consistency.
Recipe Variations to Try
Swap out the strawberry Jell-O for raspberry or cherry for a different flavor profile. For a tropical twist, replace the orange juice with mango or guava nectar. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a cup of coconut milk before freezing.
Equipment Recommendations
Use a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent scorching when boiling the sugar mixture. For easy storage, opt for freezer-safe, resealable gallon bags or airtight containers. A sturdy punch bowl with a ladle works best for serving, while a long-handled wooden spoon helps mix in the Sprite evenly.
Strawberry Slush Drink
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups sugar
- 6 cups water
- 2 (3 ounce) jello, strawberry
- 46 ounces pineapple juice
- ⅔ cup lemon juice
- 4 cups orange juice
- 2 liter Sprite
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, combine sugar, water, and jell-o. Boil for 3 minutes.
- Stir in pineapple juice, lemon juice, and orange juice.
- Divide mixture into two separate containers (I use gallon-sized Ziploc bags) and freeze for at least 8 hours (it can store in the freezer for a long time, but if you want the “slushy” consistency, you will want to keep it in the freezer for at least 8 hours).
- If it is frozen solid, I usually pull it out of the freezer about 2 hours before I need to use it so that it can thaw a little bit.
- When ready to serve, place the slushy contents of the bag into a punch bowl and stir in a 2 liter of Sprite with it (if you need to serve a lot of people, you can add a second 2-liter of Sprite and it will still taste good).
- I like to slice up some fresh strawberries and throw them into the punch bowl.
- Serve immediately.