How to Make a Classic Piña Colada – Tropical, Creamy, Refreshing
Paul Cooper
Information
5 min
1 person
Rum-based Cocktail
Puerto Rico, 1950s
A Brief History of the Piña Colada
The Piña Colada was invented in Puerto Rico , and although its exact origins are debated, the most famous claim credits bartender Ramón "Monchito" Marrero at the Caribe Hilton in 1954. The drink quickly gained international popularity for its creamy texture and refreshing tropical flavour, eventually becoming Puerto Rico’s official national drink.
Unlike many modern shortcuts that use bottled mixers, this version goes back to basics — using real pineapple juice, coconut cream, and fresh ice for an authentic taste.
Ingredients
50ml white rum
25ml coconut cream
50ml fresh pineapple juice
10ml sugar syrup (optional, to taste)
Crushed ice or small ice cubes
Pineapple wedge and maraschino cherry (for garnish)
Equipment You’ll Need
Boston Shaker
Jigger (25ml/50ml)
Hawthorne Strainer
Bar Spoon
Hurricane or Poco Grande glass
Method
Step 1 - Measure and Add Ingredients
Use your jigger to measure 50ml white rum, 25ml coconut cream, 50ml pineapple juice, and 10ml sugar syrup if desired. Pour all ingredients into the shaker tin.
Step 2 - Add Ice to the Shaker
Fill the shaker with crushed ice or small ice cubes. This helps chill and dilute the ingredients slightly for a smoother texture.
Step 3 - Shake Vigorously
Seal your Boston shaker and shake hard for around 15 seconds. This will blend the coconut cream evenly and create a lightly frothy finish.
Step 4 - Strain into Your Glass
Use a Hawthorne strainer to pour the mixture into a chilled hurricane or Poco Grande glass filled with fresh crushed ice.
Step 5 - Garnish and Serve
Garnish with a wedge of pineapple and a maraschino cherry on the rim. Add a straw if you like, and serve immediately for that perfect tropical vibe.
Cocktail Recipe
There’s a reason the Piña Colada is one of the world’s most iconic tropical drinks — it’s smooth, satisfying, and incredibly easy to enjoy. Whether you’re serving it at a summer BBQ, creating a themed drinks menu, or simply treating yourself after a long day, this creamy cocktail never fails to impress.
With high-quality bar tools from BarBits.co.uk , you can blend bar-worthy Piña Coladas at home or in your venue. All you need is a blender, the right glass, and a taste for sunshine.
