Indulge in the tropical delight of Pina Colada Milkshakes! This creamy and refreshing drink is perfect for summer parties, backyard barbecues, or a relaxing evening at home. With a blend of vanilla ice cream, coconut, and crushed pineapple, each sip transports you to a beach paradise. This recipe is simple, quick to prepare, and provides a fun twist on classic milkshakes that everyone will love!

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- Ice Cream Base
- Coconut and Rum Elements
- Garnish
- How to Make Pina Colada Milkshakes
- Step 1: Prepare the Rims
- Step 2: Rim the Glasses
- Step 3: Blend the Shake
- Step 4: Serve
- How to Serve Pina Colada Milkshakes
- For a Fun Summer Party
- With Fresh Fruit
- As Part of a Dessert Spread
- With Extra Toppings
- How to Perfect Pina Colada Milkshakes
- Best Side Dishes for Pina Colada Milkshakes
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Pina Colada Milkshakes
- Reheating Pina Colada Milkshakes
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What are Pina Colada Milkshakes?
- Can I make a virgin Pina Colada Milkshake?
- How can I customize my Pina Colada Milkshake?
- How do I make Pina Colada Milkshakes dairy-free?
- Can I prepare Pina Colada Milkshakes in advance?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tropical Flavor: The combination of coconut and pineapple offers a taste of the tropics in every sip.
- Easy Preparation: With just a few ingredients, you can whip up this delightful treat in no time.
- Versatile Serving Options: Great for parties, family gatherings, or a refreshing dessert on a hot day.
- Garnish Delight: Topped with whipped cream and cherries, it looks as good as it tastes!
- Customizable: Make it virgin or add extra rum for an adult version; the choice is yours.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your Pina Colada Milkshakes, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Blender
- Measuring cups
- Small shallow plates
- Serving glasses
Importance of Each Tool
- Blender: Essential for achieving that smooth milkshake texture by blending all ingredients thoroughly.
- Measuring cups: Ensure accurate ingredient portions for consistent flavor in every shake.
Ingredients
To make these delicious Pina Colada Milkshakes, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Ice Cream Base
- 2 ½ cups vanilla ice cream
- 8 ounces crushed pineapple in pineapple juice, undrained
- ¼ cup coconut milk
Coconut and Rum Elements
- ¼ cup Cream of Coconut, plus two additional tablespoons for rim
- ¼ cup rum (see note for virgin recipe)
Garnish
- Shredded sweetened coconut flakes
- Whipped cream and maraschino cherries for garnish
How to Make Pina Colada Milkshakes
Step 1: Prepare the Rims
Start by prepping the glasses to make your shakes look extra special.
1. Place about two tablespoons of the cream of coconut into a small shallow plate.
2. Pour the coconut flakes into another small shallow bowl.
Step 2: Rim the Glasses
Now it’s time to coat those rims!
1. Dip the rims of your serving glasses into the cream of coconut.
2. Next, roll them in the coconut flakes until fully covered.
Step 3: Blend the Shake
Let’s create that creamy mixture that makes these Pina Colada Milkshakes irresistible!
1. In your blender, combine the vanilla ice cream, crushed pineapple (with juice), coconut milk, ¼ cup cream of coconut, and rum.
2. Blend until everything is completely mixed and smooth.
Step 4: Serve
It’s time to enjoy your creation!
1. Gently pour the blended mixture into your garnished serving glasses.
2. Top with whipped cream and add a maraschino cherry if desired.
3. Serve immediately for maximum freshness!
Enjoy sipping on these delightful Pina Colada Milkshakes as they transport you straight to sunny beaches!
How to Serve Pina Colada Milkshakes
Pina Colada Milkshakes are not just a drink; they are a delightful experience. Here are some fun serving suggestions to enhance your tropical treat.
For a Fun Summer Party
- Tropical Straws: Use colorful paper straws to add a festive touch.
- Mini Umbrellas: Decorate each glass with mini cocktail umbrellas for a beach vibe.
With Fresh Fruit
- Pineapple Wedges: Add a pineapple wedge on the rim for an extra fruity flavor.
- Maraschino Cherries: Place one or two cherries on top of the whipped cream for visual appeal.
As Part of a Dessert Spread
- Serve with Brownies: Pair these shakes with fudgy brownies for a chocolatey contrast.
- Accompany with Fruit Skewers: Offer skewers of fresh fruit like strawberries and mango for added freshness.
With Extra Toppings
- Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle extra shredded coconut on top for texture.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Add a drizzle of chocolate syrup for a sweet twist.

How to Perfect Pina Colada Milkshakes
To achieve the best Pina Colada Milkshakes, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Quality Ice Cream: Choose high-quality vanilla ice cream for richer flavor and creaminess.
- Chill Your Glasses: Place your serving glasses in the freezer before pouring to keep the shakes cold longer.
- Blend Well: Ensure you blend the ingredients until smooth to avoid any chunks of pineapple.
- Adjust Consistency: If too thick, add a splash of coconut milk; if too thin, add more ice cream.
- Experiment with Rum Varieties: Try different types of rum, like coconut or spiced rum, for unique flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Pina Colada Milkshakes
Pina Colada Milkshakes pair well with various side dishes that complement their tropical flavors. Here are some great options.
- Coconut Shrimp: Crispy shrimp coated in coconut batter offer a delightful crunch.
- Guacamole and Chips: Creamy guacamole balances the shake’s sweetness perfectly.
- Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of tropical fruits enhances the refreshing theme.
- Pulled Pork Sliders: Savory sliders provide a delicious contrast to the milkshake’s sweetness.
- Cheesy Nachos: Crunchy nachos topped with cheese make for an exciting snack alongside your drink.
- Key Lime Pie Bites: Small bites of key lime pie echo tropical flavors for dessert lovers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Pina Colada Milkshakes, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.
- Using the wrong ice cream: Always use high-quality vanilla ice cream for the best flavor and texture. Low-quality ice cream can lead to a watery shake.
- Not blending long enough: Make sure to blend the ingredients until completely smooth. A quick blend may leave chunks of pineapple, affecting the drink’s consistency.
- Skipping the rim garnish: Don’t forget to rim your glasses with cream of coconut and coconut flakes. This adds flavor and a fun presentation.
- Ignoring ratios: Pay attention to ingredient measurements. Too much rum can overpower the shake, while too little can make it bland.
- Forgetting about serving temperature: Serve immediately after blending for the best experience. Letting it sit can cause it to melt and lose its creamy texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours.
- Container: Use an airtight container to prevent flavors from mixing.
Freezing Pina Colada Milkshakes
- Duration: Freeze for up to 1 month for optimal flavor.
- Container: Store in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top as it may expand.
Reheating Pina Colada Milkshakes
- Oven: Not recommended as this may alter the shake’s texture.
- Microwave: Warm in short bursts of 10-15 seconds until slightly softened, but be cautious not to overheat.
- Stovetop: Gently warm over low heat while stirring continuously until just warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Pina Colada Milkshakes?
Pina Colada Milkshakes are a delicious blend of vanilla ice cream, crushed pineapple, coconut milk, and rum. They offer a tropical taste perfect for summer.
Can I make a virgin Pina Colada Milkshake?
Yes! Simply substitute the rum with additional milk or coconut milk. This keeps the same creamy consistency without the alcohol.
How can I customize my Pina Colada Milkshake?
You can add different fruits like mango or strawberries, or even mix in chocolate syrup for a unique twist on this classic recipe.
How do I make Pina Colada Milkshakes dairy-free?
Use dairy-free ice cream alternatives along with coconut milk and cream of coconut. Ensure all other ingredients are also dairy-free.
Can I prepare Pina Colada Milkshakes in advance?
While they are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare them ahead of time and store them in the fridge for a couple of hours before serving.
Final Thoughts
Pina Colada Milkshakes are an irresistible treat that combines rich flavors with refreshing notes. Perfect for summer gatherings or simply enjoying at home, these milkshakes can be easily customized to fit your tastes. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different toppings or fruits!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
PrintPina Colada Milkshakes
Indulge in the tropical paradise of Pina Colada Milkshakes! This creamy and refreshing beverage combines rich vanilla ice cream with luscious coconut and sweet crushed pineapple, creating a delightful sip that transports you to sun-soaked beaches. Perfect for summer parties, backyard barbecues, or a cozy evening at home, this recipe is quick, simple, and sure to impress anyone who loves a taste of the tropics. Whether you enjoy it as a fun family drink or elevate it with a splash of rum for an adult twist, these milkshakes are irresistible!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Tropical
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups vanilla ice cream
- 8 ounces crushed pineapple (undrained)
- ¼ cup coconut milk
- ¼ cup cream of coconut (plus extra for rim)
- ¼ cup rum (optional for adults)
- Whipped cream and maraschino cherries for garnish
Instructions
- Rim your serving glasses: Dip rims in cream of coconut and coat with shredded coconut.
- Blend ingredients: Combine vanilla ice cream, crushed pineapple with juice, coconut milk, cream of coconut, and rum in a blender; blend until smooth.
- Serve: Pour the shake into prepared glasses; top with whipped cream and cherries.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 milkshake (approximately 12 oz)
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 50g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg