If you’re ready to soak up tropical sunshine in a glass, look no further than this Pina Colada Milkshake. Creamy vanilla ice cream, sweet-tangy pineapple, luscious coconut milk, and a few classic garnishes blend together for an utterly blissful treat. Every sip tastes like a vacation, bursting with summery flavors and a silky, luxe texture that’s pure joy. Whether you’re cooling off on a scorching afternoon or searching for a way to brighten up an ordinary day, the Pina Colada Milkshake is your golden ticket to escape—no passport needed!
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Vanilla Ice Cream:
- 2 cups
Frozen Pineapple Chunks:
- 1 cup
Coconut Milk:
- 1/2 cup
Whole Milk:
- 1/2 cup
Shredded Coconut Toasted (Optional):
- 1 tablespoon
Whipped Cream for Topping:
- As needed
Maraschino Cherry and Pineapple Wedge for Garnish:
- As needed
How to Make Pina Colada Milkshake
Step 1: Blend the Base
Start by adding the vanilla ice cream, frozen pineapple chunks, coconut milk (or cream of coconut), and whole milk into your blender. Let the machine work its magic on high speed until everything is blitzed together. What you’re aiming for is a silky-smooth, luxuriously thick milkshake, packed with fruity punch and coconut creaminess.
Step 2: Taste and Adjust
Before pouring, grab a spoon and taste. If the shake is too thick, splash in a little extra milk and blend briefly. Prefer your shakes extra-thick and spoon-worthy? Use a bit less milk. This is the perfect moment to adapt your Pina Colada Milkshake for your own dream consistency.
Step 3: Pour and Top
Divide your finished milkshake between two tall glasses (or one enormous one if it’s just for you!). Crown each with a generous swirl of whipped cream. For another layer of tropical flair, sprinkle with toasted coconut if you love some crunch.
Step 4: Garnish with Style
No Pina Colada Milkshake is complete without a flashy finish. Skewer a pineapple wedge and a maraschino cherry on top of each glass. Pop in a bright straw or a long spoon, and you’re instantly transported to a breezy, palm-lined paradise.
How to Serve Pina Colada Milkshake
Garnishes
When it comes to serving, garnishes are the cherry on top—literally! A swirl of whipped cream, a generous sprinkle of toasted coconut, and a cheerful pineapple wedge and maraschino cherry are must-haves. They turn your Pina Colada Milkshake into a showstopper, making each glass the star of your table (or poolside lounge).
Side Dishes
While your milkshake certainly stands strong on its own, pairing it with a little something to munch on is always fun. Try tropical fruit skewers, coconut macaroons, shortbread cookies, or even salty snacks like plantain chips. These complement the creamy, fruity notes and turn snack time into a festive tropical spread.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re really looking to impress, serve your Pina Colada Milkshake in hollowed-out pineapples or coconut shells for an eye-catching and memorable presentation. Small mason jars work for party mini-shakes, while cocktail umbrellas and playful straws instantly add a splash of celebration. Don’t forget to snap a picture—these beauties are Instagram stars in the making!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If, against all odds, you have any Pina Colada Milkshake left, transfer it immediately into an airtight jar and store it in the refrigerator. It’ll keep for a few hours—the texture may thin out a bit, but a quick stir will bring it right back to life.
Freezing
Want to save your shake for later? Pour it into an ice cube tray and freeze. When you’re ready for a milkshake craving to strike, just blend the shake cubes with a splash of milk to revive that thick, frosty texture and keep the Pina Colada vibes going strong.
Reheating
Milkshakes are best enjoyed cold, but if you accidentally let yours freeze too solid, let it sit at room temperature for just a few minutes. Once it loosens up, give it a quick buzz in the blender to restore that luscious, creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I make this Pina Colada Milkshake dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap out the vanilla ice cream for coconut-based ice cream, and use almond or coconut milk instead of whole milk. The result is just as decadent, silky, and loaded with tropical flavor.
Is there a way to make this milkshake healthier?
You can lighten things up by choosing low-fat or nondairy ice cream and milk, and skip the whipped cream or use a lighter alternative. Fresh pineapple also has a gorgeous flavor, in case you want to cut back on sugar—they all deliver a deliciously satisfying shake.
Can I add alcohol to make it an adults-only treat?
Definitely! For a grown-up twist, add 1–2 ounces of white rum before blending. It channels the spirit of a classic pina colada and brings a fun, party-worthy punch to your milkshake.
Which is better to use: coconut milk or cream of coconut?
Coconut milk gives a light, balanced coconut flavor, while cream of coconut makes your Pina Colada Milkshake extra rich and indulgent. If you love classic pina coladas, try cream of coconut—you’ll get that signature decadence!
Can I make this milkshake in advance for a party?
For best texture and frosty freshness, blend up the base and freeze it in advance. When ready to serve, let it thaw slightly, blend briefly to restore the consistency, then garnish just before handing out those tropical treats!
Final Thoughts
I can’t think of a quicker—or tastier—way to bring the essence of sunshine and sandy beaches to your home than with this Pina Colada Milkshake. Whether you’re treating yourself, impressing friends, or just in need of a sweet escape, give this recipe a whirl and let every creamy, dreamy sip take you somewhere special!
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Pina Colada Milkshake Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
Indulge in the tropical flavors of a Pina Colada Milkshake. This creamy and refreshing blend of vanilla ice cream, frozen pineapple, and coconut milk will transport you to a sunny beach with every sip.
Ingredients
Vanilla Ice Cream:
- 2 cups
Frozen Pineapple Chunks:
- 1 cup
Coconut Milk:
- 1/2 cup
Whole Milk:
- 1/2 cup
Shredded Coconut Toasted (Optional):
- 1 tablespoon
Whipped Cream for Topping:
- As needed
Maraschino Cherry and Pineapple Wedge for Garnish:
- As needed
Instructions
- In a blender, combine vanilla ice cream, frozen pineapple, coconut milk, and whole milk.
- Pour milkshake into tall glasses.
- Top with whipped cream and sprinkle with toasted coconut if desired.
- Garnish with a pineapple wedge and maraschino cherry.
- Serve immediately with a straw or spoon.
Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.
Notes
- For an adults-only version, add 1–2 ounces of rum before blending.
- If you prefer a thicker shake, reduce the milk slightly.
- This recipe can also be made dairy-free using coconut ice cream and almond milk.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Beverage, Dessert
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American, Tropical-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 milkshake
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 48 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
