Piña Coladas 3 Ways: Classic, Frozen, and Booze-Free

Because life’s better with a little pineapple and coconut—no matter how you sip it.

If you like piña coladas (and who doesn’t in the summer?), you’re in for a treat. This iconic drink—equal parts tropical vacation and poolside nostalgia—can do way more than just sit on a beach bar menu. Whether you’re throwing a backyard bash, chilling on your balcony with a Bluetooth speaker, or just need a 5 p.m. escape from your inbox, there’s a piña colada for the moment.

We’re breaking it down three ways: the classic, the slushy frozen version, and a booze-free mocktail that still delivers major island vibes. Plus, some fun ways to remix your colada depending on your mood. Let’s go coconuts.

1. The Classic Piña Colada

For when you want that retro tiki bar feel—no blender required.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz white rum

• 1 oz coconut cream (not coconut milk—this is the thick, sweet stuff!)

• 1 oz heavy cream (optional, but adds richness)

• 6 oz pineapple juice

• 1/2 cup crushed ice

• Pineapple wedge + cherry, for garnish

How to make it: Shake all ingredients with ice in a cocktail shaker until frosty and smooth. Strain into a chilled glass (a hurricane glass if you’re feeling fancy), then top with that juicy pineapple wedge and a cherry.

Why we love it: It’s creamy, dreamy, and totally classic. The kind of cocktail that makes you want to dig out your loudest Hawaiian shirt.

2. The Frozen Piña Colada

For that brain-freeze-bliss kind of summer sip.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz dark rum (or go half dark, half coconut rum)

• 1 oz coconut cream

• 6 oz pineapple juice

• 2 cups ice

• Optional: 1/2 banana for creaminess (yes, trust us)

• Garnish: Toasted coconut flakes + a little paper umbrella because... why not?

How to make it: Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until thick and smooth. Pour into a tall glass and top with fun.

Why we love it: It’s part slushie, part tropical cocktail, and all-around summer magic. The banana trick makes it extra creamy and naturally sweet.

3. Booze-Free Piña Colada

For kids, designated drivers, and anyone skipping the buzz.

Ingredients:

• 1 oz coconut cream

• 6 oz pineapple juice

• 1/2 cup crushed ice

• Splash of sparkling water or lime soda for fizz (optional but refreshing)

• Garnish: Pineapple leaf, slice of lime, whatever you’ve got

How to make it: Shake the coconut cream and pineapple juice with ice, then pour into a fun glass and top with a splash of soda if you like some sparkle.

Why we love it: Still lush and tropical, just without the alcohol. It’s the kind of drink that lets everyone feel included—especially if you’re mixing a big batch for a party.

Customize Your Paradise

• Spice it up with a dash of cayenne or a chili-salt rim for a sweet-heat kick.

• Add fruit like mango, passion fruit, or strawberries to the blender version for a colorful twist.

• Make it fancy with coconut milk ice cubes, edible flowers, or even a float of spiced rum on top.

• Swap the rum for mezcal (smoky), bourbon (unexpected), or coconut water (lighter).

• Make a pitcher and freeze leftovers in popsicle molds = next-level summer snack.

Whether you’re poolside, fireside, or just craving a mental vacation from your group chat, piña coladas deliver summer in a glass—your way. So pick your style, press play on your favorite beach playlist, and blend up your perfect pour.