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No matter what time of year it is, this Virgin Strawberry Pina Colada brightens up my mood. Creamy coconut, sweet strawberries, and punchy pineapple all come together in every sip. I fix this when I want a treat that feels like vacation. Whether I'm sharing with friends on a sunny day or winding down solo, this fun drink always cheers me up.
I first tossed this together for my family during a summer cookout. Everybody kept coming back for more—especially the kids! They all loved it right away.
Lively Ingredients
- Ice: toss in crushed ice for a chilly, smooth blend
- Pineapple juice: adds a tart zing for that getaway vibe—sniff for a fresh aroma if buying bottled
- Honey or agave syrup: a touch of this makes sure everything tastes just right, especially if your berries aren't quite sweet enough
- Fresh or frozen strawberries: these give loads of color and natural sweetness, plus a gorgeous pink hue
- Coconut milk or coconut cream: the reason this drink is rich and velvety, canned full-fat coconut is my secret weapon here
- Fresh strawberries and pineapple wedges: They shine as the finishing touch when you want to wow your guests
Super Simple Steps
- Sip and Enjoy:
- Drink up right after blending. That chilled, bright taste is best while it's fresh
- Serve in Style:
- Pour into ice-cold glasses and dress up with strawberries or pineapple on the rim—makes every glass look special
- Check and Adjust Consistency:
- After blending, peek at the mix. Too thick? Pour in more coconut milk or pineapple juice. Blend again for your perfect sip
- Blend Everything:
- Put your coconut milk, strawberries, pineapple juice, honey, and ice in the blender. Start slow and build up to high until it's all creamy
- Prep the Fruit:
- Remove strawberry tops and separate frozen fruit if stuck together, so it all blends up smooth
Good Stuff to Know
- Loaded with vitamin C from all that pineapple and strawberry
- Totally free from added colors or preservatives, just real fruit
- Gluten-free and dairy-free by nature so everyone can have some
Popping open the coconut is my favorite part! The smell just floats through the kitchen, and once my niece added an umbrella to her glass and called it a "princess smoothie"—now everyone asks for it every holiday.
Save the Leftovers
Left with extra? Pop the rest into ice pop trays and freeze them for a cool treat later. You get the best taste if you drink it right after making, but you can also stash it in the fridge for a day—just give it a quick mix if it settles.
Swaps and Ideas
No strawberries? Grab some frozen mango or toss in a berry mix for a twist. Want it lighter? Use lite coconut milk. Make sure to pick agave or maple syrup if you want it vegan instead of honey.
Fun Ways to Share
Make a splash at picnics, baby showers, or by the pool with this drink dressed up in extra fruit. I sometimes serve it with spicy chips and salsa, or fix mini servings for parties—always a hit!
A Bit of Background
The original pina colada came out of Puerto Rico in the '50s as a coconut-pineapple cocktail. Mine keeps those tropical flavors but skips the booze, mixing in strawberries for a fresh spin on a Caribbean favorite.
Frequently Asked Cooking Questions
- → What can I use for garnish?
Pile on fresh pineapple wedges or strawberries for a nice look and a little taste boost.
- → Can I prepare this in advance?
You can make it a bit ahead and stick it in the fridge. Mix or blend again if it separates before you pour.
- → Is coconut cream or coconut milk better?
Go with coconut cream if you want things really rich. Coconut milk keeps it lighter; it just depends what you like better.
- → How can I make this drink sweeter?
Sweet tooth? Mix in a bit of honey or agave and blend until it’s just right for you.
- → Can I use frozen strawberries?
Frozen strawberries are perfect! They’ll chill things down and make the texture even thicker and creamier.