Copycat Taco Bell Agua Refrescas Strawberry Passionfruit

There’s something magical about Taco Bell’s Strawberry Passionfruit Agua Refresca. It’s fruity but light, sweet but not syrupy, and always refreshing no matter the weather. Originally launched as part of Taco Bell’s fruit-forward drink menu, this shimmering pink drink quickly became a cult favorite thanks to its tangy passionfruit twist and those floaty freeze-dried strawberries.

If you’ve fallen for it too, you don’t have to wait for a Taco Bell run. This copycat version brings all the flavor home using real fruit, a lightly caffeinated green tea base, and just a few simple steps. It’s a breeze to mix up in under 10 minutes and perfect for summer lunches, spicy dinners, or just something fun to sip during the afternoon slump.

How to make Copycat Taco Bell Agua Refrescas Strawberry Passionfruit

To recreate the drink at home, you’ll start by brewing a quick batch of green tea. While that’s cooling, mix up a combo of strawberry purée and a splash of passionfruit juice. Add some freeze-dried strawberry bits for that Taco Bell touch, pour it all over ice, and just like that, you’ve got your own refresher worthy of the Bell’s drive-thru.

Ingredients, tools, instructions and tips

Servings: 2
Prep time: 5 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes
Calories per serving: 100 kcal

Ingredients:

• 1 cup water
• 2 green tea bags
• 2 tablespoons cane sugar (or simple syrup)
• 3 tablespoons strawberry purée (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon passionfruit juice
• 1 teaspoon freeze-dried strawberries
• Ice cubes

Tools:

• Heat-safe measuring cup or small saucepan
• Mixing spoon
• Kettle (or microwave-safe bowl)
• Tall glass or mason jar
• Small strainer (optional for purée)

Instructions:

1. Brew the tea
   Boil 1 cup of water. Add the green tea bags and let steep for 4 minutes. Remove tea bags and let the tea cool to room temperature.
2. Sweeten
   While still warm, stir in 2 tablespoons cane sugar or simple syrup. Let it dissolve completely.
3. Prep the glasses
   In each glass, add 1.5 tablespoons strawberry purée and ½ tablespoon passionfruit juice. Stir gently.
4. Assemble the drink
   Fill each glass with ice. Pour the cooled tea evenly into both glasses.
5. Finish and stir
   Top each glass with ½ teaspoon of freeze-dried strawberries. Stir gently and serve immediately.

Tips:

• Chill the tea in the fridge if you want it super cold before serving.
• Use simple syrup if you want smoother sweetness with no sugar settling.
• For bolder flavor, add an extra teaspoon of purée.
• A squeeze of lime gives it a bright citrus lift, just like Taco Bell sometimes offers in-store.

What to serve with the dish

This fruity refresher is perfect for anything bold and spicy. Serve it next to your favorite homemade tacos, loaded nachos, or even grilled chicken sandwiches for a flavor combo that pops. It cools down the heat from jalapeños and chili powder while adding a touch of sweetness that balances savory dishes.

For a full Taco Bell–inspired meal, try pairing this drink with copycat Crunchwrap Supremes, Baja chicken bowls, or even a cheesy quesadilla. On the sweet side, it goes great with tropical desserts like mango sorbet, coconut macaroons, or pineapple upside-down cake.

Hosting a backyard gathering? Serve this in a big pitcher with lime wedges on the side and let everyone build their own.

Ingredient substitutes

1. Green Tea Base
   Original Ingredient: Green tea bags
   Substitutes:

• White tea or yerba mate: Milder flavor and still lightly caffeinated
• Herbal hibiscus: Caffeine-free and adds a tart berry note
• Decaf green tea: Perfect for late-day sipping

2. Strawberry Purée
   Original Ingredient: Strawberry purée
   Substitutes:

• Blended fresh strawberries: Just blend and strain
• Strawberry jam thinned with water: Quick and shelf-stable
• Frozen strawberries: Defrost and blend for a smooth mix

3. Passionfruit Juice
   Original Ingredient: Passionfruit juice
   Substitutes:

• Mango juice with lemon juice: Gives a similar tart-sweet combo
• Pineapple juice: Sweeter but tropical
• Passionfruit syrup: Use less, and reduce the sugar in the tea

4. Freeze-Dried Strawberries
   Original Ingredient: Freeze-dried strawberries
   Substitutes:

• Diced fresh strawberries: Softer texture but similar effect
• Freeze-dried raspberries: Slightly tarter, still pretty
• Skip it: Optional, for those who prefer a smooth drink

5. Sweetener
   Original Ingredient: Cane sugar
   Substitutes:

• Honey or maple syrup: Adds subtle flavor
• Stevia or erythritol: Lower calorie options, adjust to taste
• Agave syrup: Smooth and mild, blends easily in tea

6. Ice & Garnish
   Original Ingredient: Ice and fruit bits
   Substitutes:

• Crushed or nugget ice: Melts faster, adds a slushy vibe
• Lime slices or mint leaves: For an upgraded visual and aromatic twist
• Edible flowers: A fun summer party addition