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Frozen Cherry Piña Coladas: Tropical Summer Cocktail


  • Author: Maria
  • Total Time: 25 minutes

Description

Sip on paradise with Frozen Cherry Piña Coladas! This vibrant, creamy twist on the classic tropical drink is your new summer favorite!


Ingredients

For the Classic Piña Colada Base:

  • 1 cup (8 oz) White Rum: Use a light, smooth rum like Bacardi Superior, Don Q, or Cruzan. A golden rum can also be used for a slightly richer, more caramel-forward note.

  • 1 (15-ounce) can Coco López Cream of Coconut: This is the essential, non-negotiable ingredient for an authentic, creamy texture and flavor. It is a sweetened, thick product, different from coconut milk or cream. Do not substitute.

  • 2 cups (10 oz) Fresh or Frozen Pineapple Chunks: Frozen pineapple is highly recommended as it creates a thicker, colder slush without diluting the drink with extra ice.

  • 1/2 cup (4 oz) Unsweetened Coconut Milk or Pineapple Juice: This helps achieve a pourable consistency. Coconut milk enhances the flavor, while pineapple juice adds extra tropical sweetness.

For the Cherry Swirl Component:

  • 2 cups (10 oz) Frozen Dark Sweet Cherries (pitted)

  • 1/4 cup (2 oz) Water or Cherry Juice

  • 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar or Simple Syrup (adjust based on the sweetness of your cherries)

  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Lime Juice (to brighten the cherry flavor)

For the Garnish & Presentation:

  • Maraschino Cherries

  • Fresh Pineapple Wedges or Spears

  • Toasted Coconut Flakes

  • Lime Wheels

  • Whipped Cream (optional, for ultimate decadence)


Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Swirl
In a small saucepan, combine the frozen cherries, water (or cherry juice), and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cherries have softened and released their juices, about 8-10 minutes. Use a wooden spoon or potato masher to gently break down the cherries. Remove from heat and stir in the fresh lime juice. Let the mixture cool completely, then transfer it to a sealed container and refrigerate until cold. For a smoother swirl, you can puree this mixture, but leaving it slightly chunky provides a wonderful texture.

Step 2: Blend the Piña Colada Base
In a high-powered blender, combine the 1 cup of white rum, the entire can of Coco López, the 2 cups of frozen pineapple chunks, and the 1/2 cup of coconut milk or pineapple juice.

Step 3: Achieve the Perfect Frozen Consistency
Secure the lid on your blender tightly. Start blending on a low speed to initially combine the ingredients, then gradually increase to the highest speed. Blend for 45-60 seconds, using the tamper if your blender has one to press the mixture down into the blades, until it is completely smooth, thick, and has a slushy consistency.

Step 4: The Art of Assembly – Part 1
You have two options for a beautiful presentation:

  • Layered Look: Divide half of the piña colada base among your serving glasses (tall hurricane glasses are perfect). Then, carefully spoon a layer of the chilled cherry mixture over the top. Repeat with the remaining piña colada base and another layer of cherry.

  • Swirled Look: Pour all of the piña colada base into the glasses. Then, using a spoon, gently dollop the cherry mixture on top. Take a chopstick or a long skewer and gently swirl it through the drink a few times to create a beautiful marbled effect.

Step 5: The Grand Finale Garnish
This is where the drink becomes a masterpiece. For each glass, spear a maraschino cherry and a small wedge of fresh pineapple on a cocktail pick or a long toothpick and rest it across the rim. Sprinkle a generous pinch of toasted coconut flakes over the top of the drink. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, add a tall, graceful dollop of whipped cream.

Step 6: Serve Immediately with the Right Tools
Frozen drinks wait for no one! Serve the coladas immediately, providing both a wide straw for sipping and a long spoon for tackling the frozen goodness

Notes

  • High-Powered Blender (like a Vitamix or Blendtec)

  • Small Saucepan

  • Measuring Cups and Spoons

  • Tall Glasses (Hurricane glasses are ideal)

  • Cocktail Picks or Skewers

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Drinks
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 55g
  • Sodium: 40mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Carbohydrates: 65g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 2g