Ready to bring a touch of the tropics right to your kitchen? These Pina Colada Milkshakes are creamy, dreamy, and lusciously refreshing, blending all the flavors of the classic cocktail into a fun, frosty treat you can enjoy any day of the week—umbrella optional, but highly encouraged!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistibly Creamy Texture: Each sip is velvety and ultra-smooth thanks to rich vanilla ice cream and coconut milk.
- Instant Tropical Getaway: The combination of pineapple, coconut, and just a splash of rum transports your senses to a beachside cabana—no plane ticket required!
- Fun for All Ages: Switch up the ingredients for a non-alcoholic version so everyone can join in on the sweet, sundae-inspired fun.
- Showstopper Presentation: That coconut-rimmed glass (topped with whipped cream and cherries!) makes every milkshake feel wildly festive and Instagram-ready.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how just a handful of well-chosen ingredients can create magic in your blender. Each element in these Pina Colada Milkshakes has a starring role, contributing to that signature flavor and luxurious texture that makes this drink an absolute knockout.
- Vanilla ice cream: The base that makes everything luscious and smooth—choose a premium brand for the creamiest experience.
- Crushed pineapple (in juice): Go for canned pineapple with juice (not syrup)—it gives punchy, bright flavor and adds to the frosty texture.
- Coconut milk: Adds that subtle, nutty depth and lush tropical feel—stick to full-fat for the richest taste.
- Cream of coconut: This is the “secret sauce” for sweetness and all-out coconut goodness. Don’t skip it, and save a little extra for rimming the glasses, too.
- Rum: A little goes a long way to channel the classic cocktail flavors, but you can easily make yours virgin (see notes below!).
- Shredded sweetened coconut flakes: The finishing touch for rimming your glasses—sweet, toasty, and fun to crunch.
- Whipped cream & maraschino cherries: Over-the-top garnishes that turn every milkshake into a happy celebration.
Variations
One of the best parts about making Pina Colada Milkshakes at home is that you can put your own signature spin on them. Whether you’re mixing things up for special diets or just customizing for fun, these variations make it easy to keep everyone happy (and coming back for seconds).
- Virgin Pina Colada Milkshakes: Simply swap out the rum for an equal splash of milk for all the flavor, none of the booze—perfect for kids and mocktail lovers.
- Dairy-Free Delight: Use your favorite nondairy ice cream and coconut whipped cream for a treat that’s completely plant-based (and just as decadent).
- Frozen Banana Boost: Add a frozen banana for even more creaminess and a subtle tropical twist; plus, it sneaks in a little extra fruit.
- Boozy Upgrade: Try coconut or pineapple-flavored rum for an extra burst of tropical excitement in your glass.
How to Make Pina Colada Milkshakes
Step 1: Prepare Your Garnishes
The magic starts before you even blend! Pour a couple of tablespoons of cream of coconut into a shallow plate, and some sweetened coconut flakes into a shallow bowl. Dip the rims of your serving glasses into the cream of coconut first—really coat them for full coverage—then dip those sticky rims straight into the coconut flakes. You’ll get that showstopping, beachy edge that makes every milkshake feel special.
Step 2: Load Up the Blender
Into your trusty blender go the vanilla ice cream, crushed pineapple (juice and all!), coconut milk, 1/4 cup cream of coconut, and rum. Each ingredient has its moment to shine here—don’t be tempted to hold back on that cream of coconut, as it brings true lushness and sweetness to every sip. If making a virgin version, swap in milk for the rum now.
Step 3: Blend to Perfection
Blend on high until everything is completely smooth and dreamy—the crushed pineapple should be fully incorporated, so there are no big icy bits, and the shake pours easily but still holds its shape. If it seems too thick, add a splash of coconut milk to loosen things up.
Step 4: Pour and Garnish
Gently pour your milkshakes into the prepared, coconut-rimmed glasses. Now for the crowning glory: swirl on a generous mountain of whipped cream, top with a vibrant maraschino cherry, and pop in a fun straw or umbrella if you have one. Serve immediately—this milkshake’s best enjoyed fresh, when it’s cold and fluffy!
Pro Tips for Making Pina Colada Milkshakes
- Chill Everything: Make sure your glasses, ingredients, and even the blender pitcher are cold before you start—this keeps your milkshakes thick and frosty to the last drop.
- Cream of Coconut Matters: Use a high-quality cream of coconut (like Coco López) rather than coconut cream or coconut milk—it’s sweeter and silkier for the perfect milkshake texture.
- Blend in Bursts: If you don’t want too much foam, pulse your blender in short bursts until just combined, so you get a super creamy shake without over-blending.
- Customize Consistency: For an extra thick shake, add an extra scoop of ice cream; for something lighter, a splash more coconut milk or pineapple juice works wonders.
How to Serve Pina Colada Milkshakes
Garnishes
No Pina Colada Milkshake is complete without a bit of flair! Dip your glass in sweet coconut, swirl on plenty of whipped cream, and top with a maraschino cherry for that classic, sunshine-in-a-glass finish. If you really want to impress, add a wedge of fresh pineapple or a festive cocktail umbrella for that just-landed-in-paradise vibe.
Side Dishes
These shakes pair so well with all things summer and snacky! Think grilled shrimp skewers, a fruit salad with mango and kiwi, or even a salty snack mix for contrast. For a backyard dessert spread, serve your Pina Colada Milkshakes alongside citrusy cookies or coconut macaroons—they play up the tropical flavors and complete the island theme.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your milkshake moment into a party! Use tiki glasses for a vintage touch, mason jars for a rustic look, or tiny shot glasses for “milkshake flights” at parties. Layered with extra pineapple or coconut between pours, or finished with colorful straw toppers and slices of lime, these shakes are the definition of joyful and festive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftover Pina Colada Milkshake (rare, but possible!), pop it into a covered jar or airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just know the shake will melt and separate a bit, so give it a good stir or quick re-blend before serving again.
Freezing
For longer storage, pour leftovers into popsicle molds and freeze—instant Pina Colada Milkshake pops! You can also freeze the shake in a freezer-safe jar; just leave a little headroom for expansion. Before enjoying, thaw slightly and re-blend for a slushy treat.
Reheating
Since these are ice cream-based, reheating isn’t ideal—but you can revive leftovers by letting them sit at room temperature just until slushy, then stirring or re-blending for a smooth consistency. Try blending with a bit of fresh ice cream if you want that just-made creaminess again.
FAQs
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Can I make Pina Colada Milkshakes without alcohol?
Absolutely! Just substitute the rum with an equal amount of milk (or coconut milk for extra richness). You’ll still get all the iconic flavors—creamy coconut, sweet pineapple—without any alcohol, making it perfect for kids and anyone avoiding booze.
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What’s the difference between cream of coconut and coconut milk?
Cream of coconut is sweetened and concentrated, giving your milkshake its signature flavor and sweetness, while coconut milk is thinner and unsweetened (or lightly sweetened), adding rich depth. For authentic Pina Colada Milkshakes, you want both!
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Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
You can! Just be sure to use juicy, ripe pineapple and add a splash of pineapple juice if it’s too thick—the goal is fruity flavor with a super creamy, blendable consistency.
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How can I make these Pina Colada Milkshakes extra thick?
To amp up the thickness, add another scoop of ice cream or a handful of ice cubes before blending. If you love a super frosty shake, make sure all your ingredients–including the pineapple–are well chilled before starting.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a mini vacation in a glass, these Pina Colada Milkshakes are your ticket. The flavors are pure sunshine, the prep couldn’t be simpler, and every sip will have you grinning from ear to ear. Go ahead—give them a try and let your blender whisk you off to the tropics, no passport required!
Print
Pina Colada Milkshakes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Caribbean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the tropical flavors of a Pina Colada Milkshake with this easy and refreshing recipe. Perfect for a sunny day or any time you crave a taste of the beach in a glass.
Ingredients
For the Milkshake:
- 2 1/2 cups vanilla ice cream
- 8 ounces crushed pineapple in pineapple juice undrained
- 1/4 cup coconut milk
- 1/4 cup Cream of Coconut
- 1/4 cup rum *See note for virgin recipe
For Garnish:
- Shredded sweetened coconut flakes
- Whipped cream
- Maraschino cherries
Instructions
- Prepare the Glasses: Place cream of coconut in a shallow plate and coconut flakes in a bowl. Dip glass rims in cream of coconut, then in coconut flakes to coat.
- Blend Ingredients: In a blender, combine ice cream, pineapple, coconut milk, 1/4 cup cream of coconut, and rum. Blend until smooth.
- Serve: Pour the milkshake into prepared glasses, top with whipped cream, a cherry, and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- For a non-alcoholic version, substitute milk for rum to maintain consistency.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 milkshake
- Calories: Approximately 400 kcal
- Sugar: About 30g
- Sodium: Around 150mg
- Fat: Approximately 20g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: About 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
