drink First things first—thank you for being here. It warms my heart every time someone new stumbles upon this corner of the internet, especially when I get to share something as special as this. Today’s recipe is the sweet, swirly, sunshine-in-a-glass kind of treat that instantly transports you to a beachside paradise. Whether you’re poolside or couchside, this Strawberry Piña Colada is a vacation in every sip!
Want this recipe straight to your inbox? Subscribe now and never miss a delicious drop!
What Is a Strawberry Piña Colada?
Let’s be honest, a classic piña colada already has the magical combo: pineapple, coconut, and creamy, frozen bliss. But when you swirl in a ribbon of sweet strawberry sauce? It takes it up several notches. The tropical tang of pineapple meets lush coconut cream and gets a bold berry twist—fruity, refreshing, and oh-so-decadent. It’s the kind of drink that makes any day feel like a getaway.
Reasons to Love This Recipe
It’s creamy, fruity, and perfectly balanced between tart and sweet. This gorgeous to look at, with stunning strawberry streaks swirling through a pale coconut base. It’s non-alcoholic as written, but easily spiked for a grown-up version. And it’s so easy—you can whip this up in under 10 minutes!
What Does a Strawberry Piña Colada Taste Like?
Think tropical smoothie meets dessert-level indulgence. The coconut cream brings luxurious silkiness, pineapple adds zing, and the strawberry swirl ties everything together with a jammy sweetness that cuts through the richness. Every sip is creamy, cool, and layered with tropical goodness.
Benefits of This Recipe
Perfect for summer parties or solo treats
Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free (with the right coconut cream)
Kid-friendly and customizable
No special equipment needed beyond a blender
Ingredients
For the piña colada base:
2 cups frozen pineapple chunks
1/2 cup coconut cream (not coconut milk)
1/2 cup pineapple juice
1/2 cup ice
1 tablespoon agave syrup or honey (optional)
For the strawberry swirl:
1/2 cup fresh or frozen strawberries
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
To garnish:
Whipped cream
Maraschino cherry
Pineapple wedge
Tools You’ll Need
Blender
Small saucepan (for strawberry sauce)
Tall glass for serving
Straw and long spoon (optional but fun)
Additions and Substitutions
Want it boozy? Add 1–2 oz white rum or coconut rum to the blender.
No fresh strawberries? Use strawberry jam or frozen ones—just heat gently to make a pourable sauce.
Coconut milk can sub in for coconut cream, but the result will be lighter and less rich.
Add a handful of shredded coconut for extra texture.
Garnish with fresh mint or a cocktail umbrella to amp up the tropical vibe!
How to Make Strawberry Piña Colada
Step 1: Make the strawberry sauce
In a small saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Simmer over medium heat until the berries break down and the mixture thickens (about 5–7 minutes). Let it cool slightly, then blend until smooth or mash with a fork for a chunkier texture.
Step 2: Blend the piña colada
Add frozen pineapple, coconut cream, pineapple juice, ice, and sweetener to a blender. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Swirl and serve
Drizzle strawberry sauce along the inside of your glass. Pour the piña colada in slowly so the swirl pattern holds. Top with whipped cream, a cherry, and a pineapple wedge. Serve immediately.
What to Serve With It
Pair this tropical delight with:
Coconut shrimp or grilled pineapple skewers
Fresh fruit platters
Poolside snacks like chips and mango salsa
Light desserts like angel food cake or vanilla macarons
Tips for the Creamiest Piña Colada
Use frozen pineapple to get that frosty, slushy texture.
Don’t skip the coconut cream—it’s what gives the drink body and richness.
Adjust sweetness to your taste. Pineapple can be tart or sweet depending on ripeness.
Chill your glass ahead of time for an extra-refreshing experience.
Want a layered look? Pour a bit of strawberry sauce, then a bit of colada, repeating until the glass is full.
How to Store It
This drink is best enjoyed fresh, but you can:
Store leftovers in the freezer for up to 1 week (thaw slightly and re-blend before serving)
Keep strawberry sauce refrigerated for up to 1 week
Prep ingredients ahead and blend just before serving
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this without a blender?
You can try using a food processor, but for the creamiest result, a blender is best.
Is this vegan?
Yes, as long as your whipped topping is plant-based and you use agave or maple syrup.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Blend and freeze in ice cube trays. When ready to serve, blend the cubes with a splash of juice.
What kind of coconut cream should I use?
Look for canned coconut cream (not milk), ideally unsweetened. Brands like Thai Kitchen or Trader Joe’s work well.
Conclusion
This Strawberry Piña Colada is anything but boring! It’s indulgent, tropical, and irresistibly pretty—and comes together with just a few pantry staples and a blender. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just need a burst of sunshine in your day, this drink delivers every single time.
Craving more tropical recipes? Try these next:
Grilled Peach & Pineapple Skewers with Honey Lime Glaze
Coconut Peach Smoothie Bowl
Peach Mango Daiquiri
If you make this recipe, I’d love to see it! Share your creations on Pinterest and tag me. And don’t forget to leave a review below—your feedback means everything.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per 12 oz serving)
Calories: 290
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Sugars: 36g
Protein: 1g
Fiber: 3g

Strawberry Piña Colada
Equipment
- Blender
- Small saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- - Measuring cups
- - Tall serving glass
- Straw (optional)
- Spoon (optional)
Ingredients
- For the Piña Colada Base:
- 2 cups frozen pineapple chunks
- 1/2 cup coconut cream not coconut milk
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup ice
- 1 tablespoon agave syrup or honey optional
- For the Strawberry Swirl:
- 1/2 cup fresh or frozen strawberries
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- For Garnish:
- Whipped cream
- Maraschino cherry
- Pineapple wedge
Instructions
- Prepare the strawberry swirl
- In a small saucepan, combine the strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries break down and the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat, let it cool, and blend or mash as desired.
- Blend the piña colada base
- Add the frozen pineapple, coconut cream, pineapple juice, ice, and optional sweetener to a blender. Blend until completely smooth and creamy.
- Swirl and assemble
- Drizzle the strawberry sauce inside the serving glass to create streaks. Carefully pour the piña colada mixture into the glass.
- Garnish and serve
- Top with whipped cream, a cherry, and a pineapple wedge. Serve immediately with a straw.