The strawberry piña colada is a fruity twist on the classic tropical cocktail. This vibrant drink combines the creamy coconut and pineapple flavors of a traditional piña colada with the sweet, tangy taste of fresh strawberries. It’s perfect for summer gatherings, beach parties, or anytime you want a refreshing escape in a glass.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A fun and colorful upgrade to the classic piña colada.
- Easy to make with fresh or frozen fruit.
- Customizable to be served as a cocktail or mocktail.
- Perfectly balanced with sweet, creamy, and tangy flavors.
- A crowd-pleaser for summer parties or relaxing at home.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Fresh or frozen strawberries
- Pineapple juice
- Coconut cream (or cream of coconut for a sweeter version)
- White rum (optional for a mocktail)
- Ice cubes
- Optional garnish: fresh strawberries, pineapple wedges, or shredded coconut
Directions
- Blend the Strawberries:
- In a blender, combine the strawberries and a splash of pineapple juice. Blend until smooth. Set aside.
- Make the Piña Colada Base:
- In the same blender (no need to rinse), combine the remaining pineapple juice, coconut cream, white rum (if using), and ice. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Drink:
- Pour the strawberry mixture into the bottom of a glass.
- Gently pour the piña colada mixture over the strawberry layer to create a two-toned effect.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with a fresh strawberry, pineapple wedge, or a sprinkle of shredded coconut. Serve immediately with a straw.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes 2 drinks.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes.
- Total Time: 10 minutes.
Variations
- Alcohol-Free Mocktail: Omit the rum and add a splash of sparkling water or extra pineapple juice for a non-alcoholic version.
- Strawberry-Banana Piña Colada: Blend half a ripe banana into the piña colada base for added creaminess.
- Layered Look: For a distinct layered effect, freeze the strawberry puree briefly before adding the piña colada mixture.
- Tropical Twist: Add a handful of mango or papaya chunks to the blender for an extra tropical flavor.
- Frozen Treat: Pour the mixture into popsicle molds for a boozy (or non-boozy) frozen treat.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: This drink is best served fresh. If you have leftovers, store them in the freezer for up to 1 day and blend again before serving.
- Reheating: Not applicable, as this is a chilled drink.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of pineapple juice?
Yes, blend fresh pineapple chunks with water or coconut water to create a juice-like consistency.
What’s the difference between coconut cream and cream of coconut?
Coconut cream is unsweetened and thick, while cream of coconut is sweetened and syrupy. Use cream of coconut if you prefer a sweeter drink.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, frozen strawberries work perfectly and make the drink extra cold and slushy.
Can I substitute the rum?
Yes, substitute rum with coconut water, sparkling water, or extra pineapple juice for a non-alcoholic version.
How do I make this drink thicker?
Add more ice or use frozen fruit for a thicker, slushier consistency.
What type of rum works best?
White rum is the classic choice, but coconut rum adds even more tropical flavor.
Can I make a large batch for a party?
Absolutely! Scale up the ingredients and use a large blender to make multiple servings at once.
How do I keep the layers from mixing?
Pour the piña colada mixture gently over the back of a spoon to help maintain distinct layers.
Can I add sweeteners?
If the drink isn’t sweet enough, add a bit of honey, simple syrup, or agave nectar to taste.
Can I make this drink dairy-free?
This recipe is naturally dairy-free thanks to the coconut cream.
Conclusion
The strawberry piña colada is a refreshing and tropical drink that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, hosting a summer party, or dreaming of an island getaway, this vibrant cocktail will transport you to paradise with every sip. Try it out and savor the blend of creamy coconut, tangy pineapple, and sweet strawberries!
Print
Strawberry Piña Colada
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Caribbean
- Cuisine: Blended
Description
A luscious and refreshing cocktail that merges the traditional flavors of a piña colada with the sweet addition of strawberries. This drink is both visually appealing and delicious, transporting you to a tropical paradise with every sip.
Ingredients
- 1 cup ripe strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup cream of coconut (such as Coco López)
- 1 cup crushed ice
- 2 ounces white rum (optional)
- Fresh strawberries, pineapple wedges, and mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Blend the Ingredients:
- In a blender, combine the chopped strawberries, pineapple juice, cream of coconut, crushed ice, and rum (if using).
- Blend until the mixture is smooth and thick.
- Serve:
- Pour the blended mixture into a chilled glass, such as a margarita or hurricane glass.
- Garnish with a whole strawberry, a pineapple wedge, and a mint leaf.
- Optionally, add a paper drink umbrella for a festive touch.
Notes
- Non-Alcoholic Version: To make a virgin Strawberry Piña Colada, simply omit the rum.
- Cream of Coconut: Ensure you use cream of coconut, which is sweetened, not coconut cream or coconut milk.
- Chilled Ingredients: For an extra refreshing drink, chill the pineapple juice and cream of coconut before blending.