Pina Colada

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Pina colada cocktail with pineapple
Drinks

Pina Colada

This pina colada blends up creamy, frosty, and tropical in about 5 minutes. Pineapple and coconut cream do the heavy lifting, while frozen pineapple chunks keep it thick without watering it down. White rum rounds it out, or leave it out for a virgin version the whole table can enjoy. This recipe makes two tall glasses.

Prep5 min
CookNone
Total5 min
Serves2
Makes3 cups
LevelEasy

Ingredients

  • 2 cups frozen pineapple chunks
  • 1/2 cup cream of coconut
  • 1/4 cup pineapple juice
  • 3 ounces white rum, optional
  • 1 cup ice
  • Pineapple wedges and cherries, for garnish

Directions

  1. Add the frozen pineapple, cream of coconut, pineapple juice, rum if using, and ice to a blender.
  2. Blend on high until smooth and thick, about 45 seconds.
  3. Check the texture. Add a splash more pineapple juice to thin it or more ice to thicken.
  4. Pour into two tall glasses.
  5. Garnish each with a pineapple wedge and a cherry. Serve with a straw.

Tips and variations

  • Use cream of coconut, not coconut milk. Cream of coconut is sweetened and thick, which gives the classic flavor and body.
  • Frozen pineapple keeps the drink thick and cold without diluting it the way a lot of ice would.
  • For a virgin pina colada, leave out the rum and add a splash more pineapple juice.
  • Please drink responsibly and only if you are 21 or older when adding rum. Keep water nearby and never serve to anyone underage.

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Common questions

What is the difference between cream of coconut and coconut milk
Cream of coconut is sweetened and thick, made for cocktails, while coconut milk is thinner and unsweetened. Use cream of coconut for a real pina colada.
How do I make a virgin pina colada
Leave out the rum and add a little more pineapple juice. The drink stays creamy and tropical.
Why is my pina colada watery
Too much ice or not enough frozen pineapple. Use frozen fruit for body and add ice a little at a time.
Can I make it ahead for a party
Blend a big batch and keep it in the freezer, then give it a quick re-blend before serving so it pours smooth.

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