You don’t NEED to be on vacation on some warm tropical beach to enjoy this cold, creamy, delicious homemade piña colada! Kick back and enjoy some sunshine in a glass, whether it is the peak of summer or you’re still slogging through the winter months.

Homemade Pina Colada

Pina Coladas are another one of those things that I discovered much too late in life. I was never really into Pina Coladas, but then I went to Vegas.

We had dinner at Bahama Breeze, (hosted by Mediavine, and what was to be the start of a whirlwind for me) and I ordered this thing of beauty.

It was AMAZING.

My first drink served in a coconut and I was not disappointed.

Well, a little bit when I discovered they left the core in it so less drink for me (whomp whomp), but luckily there were seconds!

When I got home I KNEW I had to work at making my own version, which is surprisingly REALLY easy.

Get all of my Cocktails here!

How to make a pina colada at home

The key to this drink is picking up some good sweetened coconut cream. You can usually find this at most grocery stores or liquor stores. It is packed with coconut flavor and adds enough sweetness to the cocktail to make it a little desserty too.

I use this Coco Real Sweetened Coconut Cream.

The Sweetened Coconut Cream is typically kept by the grenadine at the grocery store.

What kind of alcohol is best in a piña colada?

Rum is the traditional booze of choice for a pina colada. Specifically, coconut rum like Malibu is commonly used. If you aren’t a fan of rum or don’t have coconut rum on hand, you could substitute any mild-flavored liquor in these successfully. 

They are also really great with a float of dark rum like Meyer’s on top too.

Can you leave out the alcohol and make this kid-friendly?

Yes. This recipe will work just as well with no alcohol in it. If you need to thin things down a bit, toss in some milk, just until it is good and blendable. 

Virgin Pina Coladas are a popular summertime treat, so break these out the next time it gets hot outside! Just remind the kids not to sneak drinks of yours because they might just get more than they bargained for.

What are some good snacks to serve with piña coladas?

I always like to serve some munchies and appetizers when I serve cocktails, to make sure people have something in their stomachs when there is booze involved. Especially booze that tastes like it doesn’t have any booze. These can pack quite the kick if you aren’t prepared for it. 

Some great options would be:

• Buffalo Chicken Dip
• Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp
• Smoked & Fried Chicken Wings
• Grilled Jalapeno Poppers
• Smoked Salmon Dip
• Chicken and Chanterelle Crostini

More great OWYD cocktail recipes to try!

• Homemade Kahlua Coffee Liqueur
• Fresh Cherry Pina Colada
• Lemongrass Lemon Drop

Or try this Tropical Rum Punch for a fun twist on a summer drink!