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This dreamy pina colada milkshake is the tasty island cool-down you need on sunny afternoons. Just scoop in pineapple, coconut cream, and a heap of vanilla ice cream for pure chill vibes in minutes. No booze, so everyone at home can have a sip of vacation.
When I whipped this up for the first time, my kitchen totally smelled like a tropical resort. My buddies were blown away it started with some frozen pineapple. It tasted way better and lasted way longer than anything from the convenience store freezer.
Ingredients List
- Whipped cream (optional): treat yourself by topping with this for fluffy goodness—real deal is always best
- Ice cubes: thicken things up and cram in the cold—filtered ice always makes it super fresh
- Vanilla ice cream: makes everything creamy and classic—always choose the real stuff for more yum
- Honey or agave syrup: bump up fruity sweetness—taste pineapple before, so you’re not overdoing it
- Whole milk or whatever milk you like: keeps it from being too thick—whole for more richness or try coconut milk to go full coconut
- Toasted coconut flakes and pineapple wedge: toss these on top if you want it to look extra special
- Sweetened shredded coconut: brings that island bite and makes it fun—toast extra to sprinkle for a nice finish
- Frozen pineapple chunks: bring the tropical flavor and make it nice and thick—golden pieces mean sweetness is on point
- Coconut cream: gives the signature silky texture—use the rich, full-fat option, not the thinner coconut milk
- Vanilla extract: tightens all the flavors together and makes it extra dessert-like—pure is best for a solid vanilla hit
Simple How-To Steps
- Enjoy Right Away:
- Drink up while it’s freshly blended and frosty. Perfect to share those chill vibes with your people.
- Finish up and Garnish:
- Pour into some tall glasses right after blending. Top with the works—whipped cream, sprinkled coconut, pineapple wedge. Don’t forget a chunky straw.
- Blend Until Smooth:
- Pop on the lid, blend on high for half a minute or so. If any chunky fruit or coconut is left, scrape down the sides with a spatula. Blend again until it’s super smooth and thick.
- Load the Blender:
- Toss everything you measured into the blender. Liquids at the bottom makes blending easier.
- Get Ingredients Ready:
- Grab your ice cream, pineapple, coconut cream, milk, honey, shredded coconut, vanilla, and ice cubes. Set it all out near the blender for quick access.
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For me, coconut cream is totally what takes this over the top. It reminds me of sun-soaked family beach days every time. Last year, we raised our glasses for the first pool day and it’s all anyone talks about now.
Keeping It Fresh
If you’ve got extras or want to make ahead, pour into any seal-tight container and pop it in the freezer. Let it sit out in the fridge for half an hour when you’re ready, then give it a quick blend to bring back that creamy texture. Never freeze again after it’s melted or you’ll lose that perfect taste and feel.
Swap Ideas
No vanilla ice cream? Grab coconut ice cream for even more coconut action. Maple syrup’s great if you’re skipping honey and want it vegan. Almond or oat milk does just fine here. If you’re out of pineapple, frozen mango is a fun twist.
Ways to Serve
Level it up by handing these out in chilled glasses with paper umbrellas. Goes great with grilled chicken or right after a taco dinner. For kids, I leave off the toppings and let them go wild with sprinkles or silly umbrellas.
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Where It Comes From
Pina colada started in Puerto Rico in the 1950s as a fun tropical sip made with rum, coconut cream, and pineapple. This milkshake is the booze-free twist, so you can get all that sunshine flavor any time you want it—morning, noon, or night.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use fresh pineapple instead of frozen?
Go for it! Just pop in a couple extra ice cubes or freeze your pineapple first if you want it thicker.
- → What if I don't have coconut cream?
No worries. Full-fat canned coconut milk does the trick, though your drink might turn out just a bit lighter.
- → Is this suitable for those avoiding alcohol?
Of course! This drink’s made for everyone, no booze needed. Super family-friendly.
- → How can I adjust the sweetness?
Tweak the honey or agave till it tastes right to you. Use sweetened or plain coconut depending on what you’ve got.
- → Can this be made dairy-free?
Yep! Grab your favorite plant-based milk and dairy-free vanilla ice cream for an awesome vegan drink.
- → What toppings work best?
Top it with whipped cream, toasted coconut, or even a pineapple chunk—makes it extra good.