Colada Sunrise Cocktail Recipe: A Tropical Sunset in a Glass

There’s something about a cocktail that feels like a vacation in a glass, right? Whether it’s the first sunny day of spring or the dead of winter when you’re craving a tropical escape, the Colada Sunrise Cocktail delivers on every level—taste, texture, and stunning good looks.

First off, thank you for being here! Your time means so much to me, and I’m so excited to share this gorgeous and incredibly easy recipe that’s been on repeat in my kitchen lately.

Whether you’re planning a summer bash, mixing up cocktails for date night, or simply want something beautiful to sip on the patio, this drink has it all.

What Is a Colada Sunrise Cocktail?

The Colada Sunrise Cocktail is a tropical hybrid of two iconic drinks—the Piña Colada and the Tequila Sunrise. It’s rich, fruity, tangy, and sweet, all while putting on a visual show with its glowing gradient.

Instead of tequila and orange juice like a traditional sunrise, this one uses coconut cream, pineapple juice, and lime for that creamy-tart tropical base. The grenadine is gently poured at the end, sinking through the drink and creating that magical two-toned effect. The result is a cocktail that’s as much fun to look at as it is to drink.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons this cocktail earns a permanent place in your summer rotation:

• Tastes like vacation: Coconut, pineapple, lime, and rum are a dream team.
• Incredibly photogenic: That sunrise swirl is Instagram gold.
• Rich and refreshing: The coconut cream adds indulgence without weighing it down.
• Perfect for parties: Easy to batch and even easier to customize.
• Seasonless sunshine: Whether it’s poolside in July or cozying up in January, this cocktail brings tropical vibes year-round.

Flavor Profile: What to Expect

This cocktail is creamy yet light, citrusy yet mellow, and finishes with a sweet hint of cherry-pomegranate from the grenadine. The white rum gives it a clean kick without overpowering the fruity elements, and the lime juice cuts through the richness of the coconut cream like a charm.

It’s a slow-sipper, and the flavor subtly changes as the grenadine mingles with the rest of the drink—one of my favorite things about it!

Healthier Benefits of the Colada Sunrise

Okay, okay—it’s still a cocktail. But compared to other super-sugary bar drinks, this one actually has some redeeming qualities:

• Fresh citrus juice adds vitamin C and balances the sweetness.
• Coconut cream, while indulgent, also contains healthy fats in moderation.
• Grenadine is used minimally—just enough for that dramatic effect.
• Customizable sweetness: You control how sweet or tart this drink is.

Want to make it even lighter? Use light coconut milk, or skip the alcohol and turn it into a smoothie-style mocktail!

Ingredients for Colada Sunrise Cocktail

Here’s everything you need to make this cocktail glow (makes 1 serving):

• 50 ml white rum
• 50 ml pineapple juice
• 30 ml lime juice (freshly squeezed is best)
• 30 ml coconut cream (not to be confused with coconut milk)
• 15 ml grenadine syrup
• Ice (crushed or small cubes)
• Optional garnish: Pineapple wedge, maraschino cherry, cocktail umbrella

Tools You’ll Need

Let’s keep it simple—you probably have most of these on hand already:

• Cocktail shaker
• Jigger or measuring spoons
• Hurricane or tulip glass (a clear glass really shows off the sunrise!)
• Bar spoon for layering (optional but helpful)
• Cocktail picks for garnishes

Ingredient Swaps & Customizations

This drink is super flexible! Here are a few ways to switch it up:

• Spiced rum instead of white rum adds a warm, cinnamon-clove undertone.
• Frozen version: Blend all ingredients (except grenadine) with a scoop of crushed ice.
• Mocktail version: Sub coconut water or extra pineapple juice for the rum.
• Add mango puree for an extra tropical punch.
• Swap lime for lemon juice if that’s what you have on hand—still zesty and bright.

Step-by-Step: How to Make a Colada Sunrise Cocktail

1. Shake It Up

In a cocktail shaker, combine white rum, pineapple juice, lime juice, and coconut cream. Add a scoop of ice and shake well—about 15 seconds—until chilled and frothy.

2. Prepare the Glass

Fill a tall hurricane or tulip glass with crushed ice or small cubes.

3. Pour and Layer

Strain the shaken mix into the glass. Slowly pour grenadine down the inside of the glass. It’ll sink at first, then slowly start to swirl upward, creating that “sunrise” effect.

4. Garnish

Add a pineapple wedge, maraschino cherry, and a cheeky cocktail umbrella. Because why not?

5. Serve

Don’t stir! The whole charm of this drink is in the visual gradient. Hand it over with a straw and let guests enjoy the layers unfold with every sip.

What to Serve with a Colada Sunrise Cocktail

Lean into the tropical party theme! These dishes and snacks pair perfectly:

• Coconut shrimp with chili dip
• Grilled pineapple skewers
• Mini pulled pork sliders with pineapple slaw
• Tropical salsa with chips (think mango, red onion, lime, and cilantro)
• Caribbean jerk chicken wings

This cocktail also makes a stunning welcome drink for summer brunches or beach-themed birthday parties.

Tips for the Best Sunrise Effect

• Use a clear glass—the visual is part of the experience!
• Pour grenadine gently—use a spoon if needed to avoid mixing it too fast.
• Don’t over-shake—you want creamy froth, not a slushy.
• Chill your glass ahead of time for the ultimate refreshment factor.
• Use fresh juice wherever possible—it makes all the difference in flavor.

Make Ahead & Storage

• You can pre-mix the rum, coconut cream, and juices and store in the fridge for a few hours.
• Add grenadine and ice only when serving to preserve the layered look.
• Leftovers? Pour them into popsicle molds for adult tropical pops!

Colada Sunrise Cocktail: Background & Fun Facts

• Inspired by the Piña Colada (Puerto Rico) and the Tequila Sunrise (California), this drink is an original fusion that nods to two cocktail classics.
• “Sunrise” drinks have become a trend in tropical mixology—this one is a standout because of its creamy texture and layered flavor.
• Grenadine is a non-alcoholic syrup made from pomegranate juice, not cherries (though it’s often mistaken for it!).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this without alcohol?

Yes! Swap the rum for coconut water, pineapple soda, or even a splash of orange juice. It’s still creamy and refreshing.

Can I use coconut milk instead of cream?

Technically, yes—but it won’t be as creamy or indulgent. Try full-fat canned coconut milk if you’re in a pinch.

Is this drink sweet?

It’s gently sweet from the coconut and grenadine, but the lime balances it beautifully. Want it less sweet? Use less grenadine or add more lime juice.

Can I make this in a pitcher?

Absolutely. Mix everything except the grenadine in a pitcher. Pour individual servings over ice and drizzle grenadine into each glass to get that sunrise effect.

How strong is this drink?

It’s moderate in alcohol—roughly 12–15% ABV depending on your rum. Definitely sippable, not overpowering.

Final Thoughts

The Colada Sunrise Cocktail is more than just a pretty drink—it’s a vibe. It brings sunshine, flavor, and flair to any gathering or solo sip session. From its tropical taste to its sunset-hued swirl, this drink is everything we love about cocktail hour: fun, flavorful, and a little bit fancy.

So grab your shaker and put on your sunglasses—because with this in hand, it’s island time, anytime. I’m so excited for you to try it!

More Recipes to Brighten Your Next Party

Looking for more tropical party-perfect drinks? Here are some favorites that bring just as much color and flavor to the table:

Long Island Iced Punch
A party-sized version of the classic Long Island with a citrusy punch twist. Big flavor, big fun!

Hawaiian Hammer Jello Shots
Sweet, boozy, and bursting with pineapple flavor—perfect for pool parties and BBQs!

Colorful Vodka Shots Recipe
Bright, layered vodka shots that double as table décor. A must-try for your next get-together!

Show Me Your Sunrise!

If you make this Colada Sunrise Cocktail, I’d love to see it!
Tag me on Instagram, share your creation on Pinterest, or leave a comment below with your review. Let’s inspire more people to mix up a little sunshine!

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 220
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Sugars: 18g
• Fat: 6g
• Protein: 0g
• Alcohol content: ~14g (based on standard white rum)

So… are you ready to sip your way to the tropics?
One shake, one pour, one swoon-worthy swirl—and you’ve got yourself a Colada Sunrise. Cheers, friend!

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