Hey sweet tooths and tropical flavor lovers, Lana here! If you’ve ever wished you could drink the deliciousness of a pink Starburst candy (but with actual fruit), I’ve got your new favorite recipe. This Pineapple Raspberry Starburst Frappuccino is like summer vacation in a glass – sweet pineapple, tart raspberries, and that unmistakable creamy vanilla base that’ll make you feel like you’re sipping dessert.

Why This Frappuccino Tastes Like Childhood (But Better)
Before we get blending, let me tell you why this recipe has become my most-requested drink:
- Nostalgic candy flavor without artificial ingredients
- Perfect balance of sweet and tart
- Creamy texture that feels indulgent
- Ready in 10 minutes flat – no fancy equipment needed
- Totally customizable to your sweetness preference
The Secret Behind the Starburst Flavor
What makes this taste like that iconic pink candy? It’s all about:
- Pineapple-raspberry combo – the classic Starburst duo
- Vanilla pudding mix (optional but magical)
- Just enough sweetness to bring out the fruit flavors
- Creamy base that mimics that melt-in-your-mouth texture
Ingredients & Why They Matter
The Base:
- Milk – 1½ cups
The liquid foundation. Whole milk makes it creamiest, but oat milk adds nice sweetness. - Ice – 2 cups
For that perfect frappé thickness. More ice = thicker texture. - Frozen pineapple chunks – ½ cup
The tropical sweetness that defines our Starburst flavor. Frozen gives better texture. - Raspberry preserves – ¼ cup OR fresh/frozen raspberries – ½ cup
Preserves give more concentrated flavor; fresh berries add freshness. - Vanilla ice cream – ½ cup (about 1 scoop)
The creamy dreaminess we all love. Vegan ice cream works too! - Vanilla extract – 1 tsp
Enhances all the other flavors. - Honey or sugar – 1-2 tbsp (optional)
Only if you like it extra sweet.
Optional Add-ins:
- Instant vanilla pudding mix – 1-2 tbsp
The secret weapon for extra creaminess and that candy shop flavor. - Red or pink food coloring – 1-2 drops
For that iconic pink Starburst look (totally optional).
Toppings:
- Whipped cream
Because every great frappé needs a cloud on top. - Raspberry drizzle
Either store-bought or mash fresh raspberries with a bit of sugar. - Crushed freeze-dried fruit or pink sprinkles
For that extra festive touch.
Step-by-Step Candy Magic

Step 1: Blend the Base
- Add all base ingredients to blender
- Include pudding mix and food coloring if using
- Start on low to break up ice
- Increase to high until completely smooth
- Texture check:
- Too thick? Add splash of milk
- Too thin? More ice
Pro Tip: Freeze your pineapple chunks for at least 2 hours for best texture
Step 2: Taste and Adjust
- Give it a sip (this is the fun part)
- Need more sweet? Add honey
- Want more tart? Extra raspberries
- Craving more creaminess? Another spoon of pudding mix
Secret: The flavors develop more as it sits for 2-3 minutes
Step 3: Top It Like a Pro
- Pour into fun glasses
- Add generous whipped cream dollop
- Drizzle with raspberry sauce
- Sprinkle with crushed freeze-dried fruit
- Optional: Rim glasses with colored sugar
Presentation Hack: Use a piping bag for fancy whipped cream swirls
Next-Level Customizations
This recipe is your playground – here’s how to make it your own:
- Flavor Twists:
- Add lime zest for tropical tang
- Mix in coconut milk for piña colada vibes
- Swap raspberries for strawberries for different candy nostalgia
- Dietary Adjustments:
- Vegan? Use plant-based ice cream and milk
- Lower sugar? Skip added sweeteners
- Nut-free? Stick to oat or dairy milk
- Special Occasions:
- Add edible glitter for birthdays
- Use star-shaped straws for parties
- Make mini versions for showers
People Also Ask (PAA)
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of frozen?
You can, but you’ll need more ice which waters it down. Frozen gives better texture.
Is the pudding mix necessary?
Not at all! It just adds extra creaminess and enhances the candy flavor.
How do I make it dairy-free?
Use coconut milk, vegan ice cream, and coconut whipped cream.
Can I prep this ahead of time?
Best served fresh, but you can prep ingredients (freeze pineapple, make drizzle).
What if I don’t have raspberry preserves?
Mashed fresh raspberries with a bit of sugar work great too.
The Story Behind the Recipe
I created this last summer when my niece begged me to make a “Starburst drink.” After some experimenting (and many taste tests), this version emerged as the clear winner. Now it’s our signature “let’s pretend we’re at a beachside candy shop” treat, perfect for hot afternoons or when we need a little sweetness in our day.
Final Thoughts
This Pineapple Raspberry Starburst Frappuccino is more than a drink – it’s a vacation, a nostalgia trip, and a little kitchen magic all in one. Whether you’re hosting friends, need an afternoon pick-me-up, or just want to treat yourself to something special, this recipe delivers.
So grab that blender and your favorite glass – your personal candy shop experience is waiting. And if you make it, tag me @LanasSweetEscapes – I live for your delicious creations!

Pineapple raspberry frappuccino with whipped cream
Ingredients
- Base:
- 1½ cups milk whole milk or any plant-based alternative like oat or almond
- 2 cups ice
- ½ cup frozen pineapple chunks fresh works too if you have it
- ¼ cup raspberry preserves or ½ cup fresh/frozen raspberries
- 1 scoop about ½ cup vanilla ice cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 –2 tablespoons honey or sugar optional, depending on how sweet you want it
- Optional add-ins:
- 1 –2 tablespoons instant vanilla pudding mix adds creaminess & candy-like flavor
- 1 –2 drops red or pink food coloring for that Starburst pink glow—optional
- Toppings:
- Whipped cream
- Raspberry drizzle store-bought or mash raspberries + a little sugar
- Crushed freeze-dried fruit or pink sprinkles
Instructions
- Add all the base ingredients to a blender
- – Milk, ice, pineapple, raspberries or raspberry preserves, vanilla ice cream, vanilla extract, and sweetener (if using).
- – Optionally toss in pudding mix or food coloring.
- Blend it up!
- – Start on low speed, then move to high until smooth and creamy. It should be thick, like a milkshake.
- Taste test
- – Adjust sweetness or tartness to your liking. Add a splash of milk if it’s too thick.
- Serve & top
- – Pour into glasses, top with whipped cream and a raspberry drizzle. Add sprinkles if you’re feeling extra.
- Enjoy immediately
- – This drink is best cold and fresh. Grab a straw and sip that candy-inspired tropical magic.