Pin it
Creamy vanilla ice cream, sweet crushed pineapple, and rich coconut team up for a chill, tropical taste that feels like a mini getaway at home. Pina Colada Milkshakes are a cool, dreamy treat packed with the sunny flavors of the classic drink, but way more fun to sip. Creamy coconut, tangy sweet pineapple, and smooth ice cream all mix to make an awesome flavor combo you’ll want every hot day. Whip ‘em up for pool parties, after-dinner sweets, or any sunny afternoon when you’re craving vacation feels.
I first mixed up a batch during a blazing backyard luau, and as soon as people took a sip, the mood totally changed—everyone just chilled out and started grinning. Someone even said it was better than her favorite bar drink. Now it’s turned into the star summer dessert around here—friends ask for it for birthdays and relaxed weekend hangouts. The old-school milkshake fun blended with sunny, tropical flavors just wins over both grownups and kids.
Dreamy Key Ingredients
- Heavy Whipping Cream: Gets whipped up for that light, fluffy topping that feels super fancy.
- Maraschino Cherries: Bright little pops of color and a sweet finish, always a crowd-pleaser.
- Rum (Optional): Want to kick it up for adults? A splash of rum brings a cozy, rich note.
- Sweetened Shredded Coconut: Tossed in for a hint of texture that just works with the creamy shake.
- Cream of Coconut: Sweet and thick, it gives that real-deal coconut flavor.
- Full-Fat Coconut Milk: Rich and smooth, brings true coconut vibes.
- Crushed Pineapple: Loads the shake with juicy, sweet-tangy bites.
- Premium Vanilla Ice Cream: Super creamy, smooth ice cream builds the base of the whole thing.
Simple Shake Directions
- Serving Toppings:
- Edge each glass with coconut and pile on the whipped cream, cherries, and toasted coconut for major wow factor.
- Ready to Pour:
- Tip your blended shake into icy cold glasses so it stays thick and frosty.
- Blend It Just Right:
- Start your blender on low, crank it up bit by bit, and stop when it’s smooth but still rich and thick.
- Coconut Crunch:
- Add shredded coconut in the blender for a chewy, fun texture and real tropical feel.
- Adult or Kid Friendly:
- Making it boozy? Add your rum now. Or swap for extra pineapple juice or more coconut milk if you want it booze-free.
- Blender Prep:
- Drop in your softened ice cream, pineapple, coconut milk, and cream of coconut together.
- All Ready to Go:
- Make sure all your goodies (ice cream, coconut milk, fruit) are good and cold—soften ice cream just a notch, shake the coconut milk, and drain the pineapple juice.
- Finishing Touch:
- Add straws and a wedge of pineapple for a sip that looks as fun as it tastes.
Pin it
Easy Ways to Serve
Try these shakes with buttery cookies or shortbread for a classic match. Make a dessert spread by adding coconut macaroons or grilled pineapple on sticks for extra tropical fun.
Switch It Up
Turn your shake into a parfait—just add layers of extra pineapple and toasted coconut. Looking for chocolate? Pour in chocolate syrup and use chocolate ice cream. For a lighter take, swap in frozen yogurt and use light coconut milk.
How to Save Leftovers
These shakes taste best fresh, but if you’ve got some left, pop them in a covered container in the freezer for a couple of hours. Give ‘em a fast re-blend with more coconut milk when you’re ready to drink.
Pin it
I first whipped up these shakes during a craving on a roasting hot afternoon. Now they're our go-to for nearly every summer hangout—each sip really does feel like a tasty mini vacation. Whether it’s a crowd or just me, they always bring a mood lift and a laid-back smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I make these totally alcohol-free?
- Definitely! Just use 1/4 cup milk instead of rum and blend as usual. You’ll still get all that bright coconut and pineapple flavor—just no booze.
- → What’s the quick rundown between coconut milk and cream of coconut?
- Cream of coconut is sugary and thick like syrup. Coconut milk is thinner, not sweet, and pours like regular milk. You’ll want both for lush flavor and that rich, creamy shake.
- → Can I prep these ahead?
- They taste best right when you blend ’em. If they sit too long, the shake melts and turns watery. But you can get your coconut rims on the glasses ready early, so it’s super fast to serve.
- → Where can I grab cream of coconut in a store?
- Check the cocktail aisle near mixers—think piña colada mixes. Brands like Coco Lopez or Goya are pretty common. Sometimes you’ll spot it in the international section, too.
- → Can you use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
- You sure can, but toss in some pineapple juice too, since the canned stuff is undrained. Just blend a cup of pineapple chunks with a quarter cup juice and you’re set.