Strawberry Piña Colada – A Creamy, Tropical Dream in a Glass!

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!

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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

Tropical strawberry coconut drink in a tall glass

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

Tropical strawberry coconut drink in a tall glass

Strawberry Piña Colada

A creamy, tropical twist on the classic piña colada, swirled with fresh strawberry sauce for a fruity and refreshing drink that tastes like summer in a glass. Perfect for parties, relaxing afternoons, or whenever you need a little paradise in your day.

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.

Notes

For an alcoholic version, add 1–2 oz of white rum or coconut rum to the blender with the other ingredients.
Make ahead tip: You can freeze the blended piña colada in ice cube trays and re-blend with a splash of juice when ready to serve.
Coconut cream note: Make sure to use canned coconut cream for the richest texture—shake the can well or stir before using.
Dietary info: Naturally gluten-free and easily made vegan by using plant-based whipped topping and agave syrup.

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