McDonald's Red Bull Energy Drinks Copycat Recipe (Starbucks Competition?)
McDonald's is adding Red Bull drinks and fruity energy beverages in May! These are designed to compete with Starbucks Refreshers — expect Red Bull-based mixed drinks with fruit flavors and customizable energy options. McDonald's is entering the energy drink game hard. I'll update once they officially launch.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- Red Bull (regular or sugar-free) 16 oz
- Pineapple juice 4 oz
- Strawberry puree or syrup 2 oz
- Ice cubes 2 cups
Seasonings/Sauce
- Fresh lemon juice 1 tbsp
- Simple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness) 1 tbsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates
30 g
100%
Protein
0 g
0%
Fat
0 g
0%
Cooking steps
-
1
Chill two large 16 oz glasses in the freezer for 5 minutes to mimic the icy cold pour McDonald's provides.
-
2
Add the ice cubes evenly between the glasses. For best copycat texture, use 'nugget' or crushed ice similar to McDonald's fountain drinks.
-
3
In a shaker or large measuring cup, combine pineapple juice, strawberry puree or syrup, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup. Stir or shake until well mixed — this replicates the just-shaken effect from fast food counters.
-
4
Pour 8 oz of Red Bull into each glass over the ice, then top with half the fruit mixture in each glass. Gently swirl with a straw to incorporate without losing carbonation. This keeps the signature fizzy, energetic mouthfeel.
-
5
Serve immediately for maximum fizz. Copycat tip: Don't add Red Bull before shaking — always pour over the top so you maintain McDonald's-inspired bubbles and vibrant fruit layers.
Personalized Q&A
Q. Does this really taste like McDonald's Red Bull Energy Drinks?
Yes! This recipe uses the same Red Bull base and combines it with fruit flavors (pineapple and strawberry), mimicking McDonald's energetic mixes and fizzy appeal. Chilling the glass and swirling, not shaking, the drink preserves the carbonation just like the new McDonald's counter prep.
Q. My drink isn't as fizzy or colorful as the McDonald's version. What can I do?
Be sure to add Red Bull over ice last and swirl gently to avoid losing carbonation. For bright color, use a quality fruit syrup or puree—don't over-dilute with juice or water. Serving right away preserves the texture and fizz that McDonald's aims for.
Q. Can I use energy drink brands other than Red Bull?
While you can substitute another energy drink, McDonald's is using Red Bull for its signature flavor and energy profile. For the most accurate copycat result, Red Bull—regular or sugar-free—is best. Other brands may alter both taste and color.
Q. How many calories and how much sugar does each serving have?
Each 16 oz drink has about 120 kcal, all from carbohydrates—mostly from Red Bull and fruit juices. There are 30g of carbs per serving, with virtually no fat or protein.
Q. Can I make these drinks ahead or store leftovers?
It's best to make and serve immediately. If left too long, the ice will dilute the drink and the carbonation will dissipate. For prep, you can keep the fruit mixture chilled separately and assemble drinks to order for maximum fizz and freshness.
