A Virgin Piña Colada is a delicious tropical drink that anyone can enjoy—even without the booze. Let me show you how I whip up a simple, refreshing Virgin Piña Colada at home using just a handful of ingredients and whatever basic kitchen tools I have on hand.

This recipe is a go-to for summer, or honestly, anytime I’m craving a sweet, cool treat. Making it is quick and easy, which I love.

I like being able to mix up a batch for myself or friends whenever we want a taste of the beach. The pineapple and coconut just come together for this creamy, fruity flavor that always feels like a mini-vacation in a glass.

Virgin Pina Colada Cocktail Recipe

I keep things simple when I make my Virgin Pina Colada. The right mix of fresh flavors is what gives this classic mocktail its signature creamy and fruity vibe.

John

Prep Time 5

Total Time 5

Serving Size

Equipment

Blender: I usually reach for a high-powered blender to get everything super smooth and creamy.
Measuring cups and spoons: Helps me keep the flavors balanced, though I’ll admit I sometimes eyeball it.
Jigger or small liquid measuring cup: For those times when I want to be precise.

Long bar spoon or spatula: Handy for scraping down the sides or mixing things up mid-blend.
Knife and cutting board: Needed for slicing up pineapple or garnishes, which I don’t always do, but it’s nice to have.
Glasses: Chilled hurricane or highball glasses just make the drink feel a bit more special.

Straws or cocktail umbrellas: Totally optional, but let’s be honest, they’re fun.

Ingredients

2 cups frozen pineapple chunks
1 cup unsweetened pineapple juice
3/4 cup coconut milk or cream of coconut I use cream for a richer taste
1 tablespoon lime juice freshly squeezed
1-2 tablespoons simple syrup or honey optional, for sweetness

1 cup ice cubes
Fresh pineapple wedges or maraschino cherries for garnish, optional
Mint sprigs optional, for garnish
2 cup vodka

Instructions

Dump the frozen pineapple, pineapple juice, coconut milk or cream, lime juice, and simple syrup or honey into your blender.
Toss in the ice cubes on top.

Pop on the lid and blend on high until everything’s totally smooth and creamy. Sometimes I have to stop and scrape down the sides.
Give it a taste. If it’s not sweet enough, I’ll add a bit more syrup or honey and blend again.
Pour the Virgin Pina Colada into chilled glasses—makes it extra refreshing.

Garnish with pineapple wedges, cherries, or a mint sprig if you’re feeling fancy.
Serve right away with a straw.

Notes

Sometimes I use light coconut milk instead of cream if I want something lighter, but just know the drink won’t be as creamy.

If my blender’s not the strongest, I chop the frozen pineapple into smaller bits. That way I don’t end up with weird chunks.

Making a big batch? I’ll double or triple the recipe, but I’m careful not to overfill the blender—learned that the hard way.

Tasting Notes

First sip, and it’s all about that creamy, smooth feel. The drink’s rich but not heavy, thanks to the blended ice and coconut milk.

The pineapple juice gives it this gentle sweetness. There’s a mild tang from the fruit, which I think keeps it from being cloying or too sugary.

The coconut adds this subtle, nutty note. It blends right in with the pineapple, so neither one takes over. I’m always surprised how balanced it tastes.

Key Points:

Texture: Smooth, creamy, a little icy
Sweetness: Mild and natural—not over the top
Aftertaste: Soft coconut, just a hint of pineapple

When it’s served cold, it’s honestly super refreshing. Perfect for a hot day, or just when I want something that feels a little special. If I throw on a cherry or a pineapple slice, it looks festive and adds a tiny pop of flavor—plus, it’s fun.

Substitute

Sometimes I just don’t have all the classic ingredients for a virgin piña colada.

So, here are some simple substitutes I reach for to keep the drink tasty and refreshing.

For Coconut Cream:

I usually mix about 3 tablespoons of coconut milk with 1 tablespoon of sugar. Works in a pinch.
Coconut yogurt? Surprisingly creamy and not a bad stand-in at all.

For Pineapple Juice:

When I’m out of juice, I just blend up some fresh pineapple with a splash of water. It’s not exact, but it gets pretty close.

If I’m desperate, canned pineapple chunks blended with water will do the trick.

For Sweetness:

Instead of simple syrup, I’ll add honey or agave syrup. Whatever’s around, honestly.

Equipment:

Ingredients:

1 cup substitute pineapple juice

1/2 cup substitute coconut cream
1-2 tablespoons substitute sweetener
1 cup ice

Instructions:

Throw all the ingredients in the blender.
Blend until it’s smooth and creamy.

Pour into a glass and serve cold. That’s it.

I just mix and match based on what’s in my kitchen. These swaps usually let me whip up a tasty drink, even when I’m missing a thing or two.

Virgin Pina Colada Cocktail Recipe