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Pina Colada

Yields1 Serving

The Pina Colada is a creamy, tropical cocktail that originated in Puerto Rico and has since become a worldwide favorite. Combining the sweetness of pineapple, the richness of coconut cream, and the kick of rum, it’s the quintessential beach drink that instantly transports you to a tropical paradise.

Pina Colada

Ingredients
 2 oz White Rum (Recommended: Bacardi, Malibu, or Don Q)
 1 oz Dark Rum (optional for added depth)
 2 oz Coconut Cream (e.g., Coco López or homemade)
 3 oz Pineapple Juice (freshly pressed for the best flavor)
 1 cup Crushed Ice
 Fresh Pineapple Slice
 Maraschino Cherry
 Pineapple Leaf (for a tropical touch)
Equipment
1

  • Blender

  • Hurricane glass or tall glass

  • Cocktail pick

  • Straw

Instructions
2

  1. Prepare the Glass:

    • Chill the glass by filling it with ice water while you prepare the cocktail.

  2. Blend the Ingredients:

    • In a blender, combine white rum, dark rum (if using), coconut cream, pineapple juice, and crushed ice.

    • Blend on high until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

  3. Pour and Serve:

    • Discard the ice water from the glass.

    • Pour the blended mixture into the glass.

  4. Garnish:

    • Garnish with a fresh pineapple slice, a maraschino cherry, and a pineapple leaf.

    • Add a straw for easy sipping.

Serving and Presentation
3

  • Serve immediately to maintain the drink’s creamy, icy consistency.

  • A classic Pina Colada is best served in a tall, curvy hurricane glass for a truly tropical vibe.

Pairing Suggestions
4

  • Appetizers: Coconut shrimp, mango salsa with tortilla chips, or plantain chips.

  • Main Course: Grilled mahi-mahi, jerk chicken, or pineapple-glazed pork.

  • Dessert: Coconut flan, pineapple upside-down cake, or banana fritters.

Tips and Variations
5

  • Virgin Pina Colada: Omit the rum and add a splash of coconut water for a refreshing, non-alcoholic version.

  • Frozen Pina Colada: Add extra ice and blend until slushy for a more refreshing, icy texture.

  • Spicy Pina Colada: Add a splash of jalapeño-infused rum or a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick.

  • Strawberry Pina Colada: Add fresh or frozen strawberries to the blender for a fruity twist.

Cocktail Trivia
6

  • The Pina Colada was created in San Juan, Puerto Rico, in the 1950s and was officially declared the national drink of Puerto Rico in 1978.

  • The name "Pina Colada" translates to "strained pineapple," referring to the freshly pressed and strained pineapple juice used in the original recipe.

Nutrition Facts

0 servings

Serving size