Whipping up this Pina Colada Recipe at home is quick and easy. This sweet, fruity frozen drink made with pineapple comes together in just minutes.
Want it without alcohol? Just use pineapple juice. Prefer a cocktail? Swap out the pineapple juice for rum.
authorโs note
Copycat Resort Pina Colada Recipe!
We took our kids to Mexico for the first time earlier this year, and they loved it!
Besides swimming, what were their favorites? The bottomless piรฑa coladas, the endless meringues at the buffet, and heaps of Mexican rice.
The entire time we were in Mexico, my kids constantly asked if I could make these when we got back home. I picked up a few tips from the bartenders on their favorite ways to make piรฑa coladas without alcohol.
Since coming home, Iโve tried and tweaked until this recipe received approval from every family member. These are the absolute best piรฑa coladas!
Pina Colada Recipe Ingredients
| Ingredient | Tip |
|---|---|
| Frozen Pineapple | If using fresh pineapple, wait until itโs ripe, then freeze it solid for the best flavor and texture. |
| Cream of Coconut | Coco Real in the squeeze bottle is easy to use and adds great coconut flavor. |
| Heavy Cream | For a dairy-free option, swap with canned coconut cream (use leftovers in Coconut Cream Pie!). |
| Pineapple Juice | Use 100% pineapple juice with no added water for the best flavor. |
| Lime Juice | Adds a little tartness to balance the sweetness, but it can be skipped. |
| Salt | A tiny pinch enhances the pineapple and coconut flavors. |
How To Make a Non-Alcoholic Pina Colada
I put 100% pineapple juice in these pina coladas. Theyโre like a sweet fruity milkshake and my kids will tell you, they prefer this drink over an Oreo Milkshake!
What Rum To Use In This Pina Colada Recipe
- Stick with light (not dark) rum. Dark rumโs rich, caramel tones donโt mix well with the light fruitiness of this drink.
- Pick a rum you enjoy on its own.
Variations
- Add some more fruit and give myย Strawberry Piรฑa Colada a try!
- Make a dairy free Pina Colada following this recipe and using canned coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
- Vegan Pina Colada? This recipe is naturally vegan!
- Use canned pineapple by draining it well and then freezing the night before.
How To Make This Pina Colada Recipe
Itโs as easy as tossing everything in a blender and blending! Here are some tips:
- Use a High-Powered Blender: Ensures smooth results with frozen ingredients.
- Slightly Thaw Fruit: Let super frozen fruit soften a bit for easier blending.
- Liquid First: Start with liquids in the blender for smoother blending.
- Pulse, Then Blend: Pulse to chop big pieces, then blend for a smooth texture.
- Adjust to Taste: Add more sweetness or tartness if needed after a quick taste test.
- Chill Glasses: Serve in chilled glasses to keep it colder for longer.
Can I Make More?
Yes, you can double the recipe based on your blenderโs capacity. For larger quantities, prepare in batches.ย
chelseaโs recipe tip
How I Love To Garnish This Pina Colada Recipe
- Pineapple Wedge: Slide a fresh pineapple wedge onto the rim of each glass.
- Maraschino Cherry: Place a cherry on top of the drink or skewer it with a small umbrella and rest it on the edge of the glass.
- Mint Sprig or Lime: Insert a sprig of mint or a thinly sliced lime.
- Umbrella or Straw: Add a colorful umbrella or a fun straw for a fun tropical vibe.
More Refreshing Frozen Drinks:
Pina Colada
Equipment
- Blender high-powered
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup 100% pineapple juice for a cocktail, replace with rum, see note 1
- 2 cups frozen pineapple chunks
- 2 cups ice cubes
- 3/4 cup cream of coconut see note 2
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or canned coconut cream
- 1 lime add to preference
- 1/16 teaspoon salt
- Serving suggestions see note 3
Instructionsย
- Let the frozen pineapple chunks warm up at room temperature for a minute for easier blending. Optionally, chill glasses ahead of time.
- Combine all ingredients in a high-powered blender in the order listed. Add 1 up to 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice. Blend until smooth and frosty.
- Taste and adjust as necessary. Pour into chilled glasses and garnish with pineapple slices, lime slices, and Maraschino cherries, if desired. Serve immediately.
Recipe Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
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