Copycat Taco Bell Refresca Freeze Strawberry Lime Recipe

If you’ve been craving the icy swirl of Taco Bell’s new Strawberry Lime Refresca Freeze, you’re not alone. This vibrant pink-and-green slushy has become a summer staple, blending tart lime with sweet strawberry and topping it off with real fruit bits. The only problem? It’s only around for a limited time at select locations. So we figured, why not bring the freeze home?

This copycat Taco Bell Refresca Freeze Strawberry Lime recipe nails the layers of citrus and berry flavor with simple ingredients and a blender. Whether you’re looking to impress your guests or sip solo in the sunshine, this refreshing drink comes together in just minutes. Bonus: no drive-thru lines.

How to make Copycat Taco Bell Refresca Freeze Strawberry Lime

This homemade version mimics everything from the slushy texture to the fruit burst on top. The trick is starting with a wild strawberry base, swirling in a splash of lime syrup, and finishing with freeze-dried strawberry bits for crunch. A high-powered blender is key here, and make sure your ingredients are ice cold before blending for that classic Taco Bell chill.

Ingredients, instructions and tips

Ingredients:

• 1 cup wild strawberry syrup (Torani or homemade)
• 2 tbsp lime syrup (Monin Lime or homemade)
• 2 cups ice cubes
• ¾ cup cold water
• 2 tbsp freeze-dried strawberry bits

Tools:

• High-speed blender
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing spoon
• Tall glasses for serving
• Straw or long spoon

Instructions:

1. Prep the ingredients. Chill the water and syrups ahead of time for best results.
2. Blend the base. Add ice, cold water, and wild strawberry syrup to a high-speed blender. Blend on high until smooth and slushy.
3. Add the swirl. Pour in the lime syrup and blend again for just 2 to 3 seconds. This keeps the swirl visible while still mixing the flavor.
4. Serve and top. Pour into glasses and sprinkle freeze-dried strawberries on top. Serve immediately with a thick straw or long spoon.

Tips:

• For a more intense lime hit, drizzle extra syrup on top right before serving.
• Freeze your glasses for 10 minutes before pouring to keep the drink colder longer.
• If using homemade syrups, strain well to avoid pulp or zest in the slush.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Calories: 180 per 16 oz serving

What to serve with the dish

This slushy beauty pairs perfectly with spicy foods, so think nachos, tacos, or anything hot and crunchy. It also works well as a standalone treat on a sunny afternoon. If you’re feeling playful, top it with whipped cream or even a scoop of lemon sorbet for a float-style twist. Hosting a summer brunch? Freeze smaller portions in shot glasses for a welcome drink with a twist.

Ingredient substitutes

1. Wild Strawberry Syrup
   Original Ingredient: Commercial wild strawberry syrup

Substitutes:

• Homemade Syrup: Simmer equal parts sugar and water with mashed strawberries until thickened, then strain.
• Raspberry Syrup: For a similar tart sweetness with a twist.
• Strawberry Jam + Water: Mix jam with hot water and strain for a DIY syrup.

2. Lime Syrup
   Original Ingredient: Bottled lime syrup

Substitutes:

• Fresh Lime Juice + Sugar: Mix equal parts juice and sugar until dissolved for a zesty kick.
• Limeade Concentrate: Adds both sweetness and citrus bite.
• Lemon-Lime Soda: In a pinch, it brings fizz and lime, though it will change the consistency.

3. Freeze-Dried Strawberry Bits
   Original Ingredient: Packaged freeze-dried strawberry pieces

Substitutes:

• Crushed Freeze-Dried Raspberries: Slightly tangier but still delicious.
• Chopped Dried Strawberries: Chewier texture but good in a pinch.
• Strawberry Pop Rocks: Adds fun texture and a nostalgic punch.

4. Ice
   Original Ingredient: Standard ice cubes

Substitutes:

• Crushed Ice: Blends smoother and faster.
• Frozen Strawberry Cubes: Make with puréed strawberries and water for more flavor.
• Frozen Coconut Water Cubes: Adds a subtle tropical note.

5. Sweetener (if adjusting sweetness)
   Original Ingredient: Sugar (in the syrups)

Substitutes:

• Stevia or Erythritol: Use a small amount, as these are more concentrated.
• Honey or Agave: Natural alternatives that blend well, though they will shift the flavor slightly.
• Fruit Juice: Add a splash of apple or grape juice to naturally sweeten the drink.