Raspberry Piña Colada (Simple Boozy Version)

Creamy, dreamy, and bursting with berry bliss—this Raspberry Piña Colada is a tropical escape in a glass, and it’s perfect for sunny afternoons, backyard gatherings, or any moment that needs a splash of summer joy. Whether you’re craving something fruity, refreshing, or downright fun, this twist on the classic piña colada delivers every time.

Before we dive into the blending action, thank you so much for being here. It means the world to share these moments and recipes with you. It’s full of tropical inspiration, seasonal sips, and creative spins on your favorite cocktails.

Let’s get into this unforgettable drink. Because once you try this version, the regular piña colada will never taste quite the same again.

What Is a Raspberry Piña Colada?

A Raspberry Piña Colada is a delightful tropical cocktail made by blending frozen raspberries, pineapple juice, coconut cream, white rum, and crushed ice. While the classic piña colada is known for its sweet, creamy pineapple-coconut profile, this version introduces vibrant berry tartness that cuts through the richness and gives the drink a whole new personality.

If you’re a fan of drinks that are fruity yet creamy, smooth but not overly sweet, this is your cocktail. Think poolside vibes with a twist. It’s the kind of drink that brings the vacation to you, even if you’re just sitting on the porch with your feet up.

Why You’ll Love This Raspberry Piña Colada

There are so many reasons this cocktail might become your summer (and spring… and maybe even fall?) go-to. Here are just a few that make it extra special:

It’s a refreshing twist on a tropical classic. If you love piña coladas but want something a little brighter and bolder, the raspberries introduce just the right amount of tang. It comes together in five minutes flat. A blender and a few ingredients are all it takes. No shaking, muddling, or complicated prep. It’s visually stunning. That deep pink-magenta hue is a total showstopper, especially when you garnish with fresh fruit and whipped cream. You can easily make it non-alcoholic. Just leave out the rum and double the pineapple juice for a gorgeous mocktail that everyone can enjoy. It scales beautifully. Making drinks for a crowd? Just multiply the quantities and blend in batches or use a large-capacity blender.

What Does It Taste Like?

Imagine sipping something that tastes like a tropical dessert crossed with a fruity smoothie—and then spiked with just enough white rum to keep things interesting. The coconut cream gives it a velvety texture, while the pineapple juice adds natural sweetness and acidity. But it’s the raspberries that take center stage, offering that unmistakable berry brightness that cuts through the richness and brings everything into balance.

If you’re the kind of person who likes your cocktails to be indulgent but refreshing, this one hits that sweet spot. It’s creamy without being cloying, fruity without being sugary, and undeniably vibrant on the palate.

Benefits of Making Raspberry Piña Coladas at Home

Making cocktails at home isn’t just fun—it’s also incredibly rewarding. You can control the sweetness, customize the flavors, and make drinks that suit your exact taste.

Here are some more reasons to make this Raspberry Piña Colada in your own kitchen:

You get to use fresh, real ingredients—no neon syrups or artificial flavors. You can adjust the alcohol content (or leave it out altogether). You’ll save money compared to bar prices, especially if you’re making drinks for friends. You can customize every element to your liking—from the thickness to the garnish. Plus, homemade cocktails give you the chance to get creative with presentation, glassware, and add-ons like fruit garnishes and decorative straws.

Ingredients for Raspberry Piña Colada

To create the perfect Raspberry Piña Colada, you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients—each playing a key role in flavor and texture.

1 cup frozen raspberries – These add body and chill to the drink while bringing their iconic tart-sweet flavor. 1 cup pineapple juice – Choose a high-quality juice that’s 100% pineapple, ideally not from concentrate. It brings tropical sweetness and acidity. ½ cup coconut cream – Not to be confused with coconut milk, coconut cream is thick, rich, and essential for a creamy finish. ½ cup white rum – Classic white rum is light and blends smoothly into the drink. 1 cup crushed ice – Gives the drink its signature frozen texture. 1 tablespoon simple syrup (optional) – Use this if your raspberries are especially tart or if you prefer a slightly sweeter drink.

Tools You’ll Need

This drink couldn’t be easier to make, and you don’t need any fancy bar equipment to pull it off. Here’s what you’ll want on hand:

A high-speed blender – Essential for getting that smooth, creamy consistency. Measuring cups and a jigger or small measuring glass – To keep the ratios just right. A hurricane or highball glass – These glasses make the drink feel festive and tropical. Optional garnishing tools – A cocktail pick, citrus zester, or even a paper umbrella if you’re going full tiki style.

Ingredient Swaps and Flavor Additions

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, so don’t be afraid to get creative or adjust based on what you have on hand. Here are some popular swaps and add-ons:

Swap frozen strawberries for raspberries if you prefer a sweeter berry flavor. Use light coconut milk if you don’t have coconut cream—it will be slightly less rich but still tasty. Add a splash of fresh lime juice to brighten the flavor and cut through the creaminess. Drizzle a little vanilla extract in for a dessert-like twist. Garnish with toasted coconut flakes, fresh mint, or a skewer of mixed fruit for a gorgeous presentation. If you’re in the mood to get really creative, blend in a bit of mango or peach for added tropical flair.

How to Make Raspberry Piña Colada

Now for the fun part—making your own Raspberry Piña Colada from scratch. This recipe makes one large cocktail or two small ones, but feel free to scale it up as needed.

Step 1: Add everything to the blender. Combine the frozen raspberries, pineapple juice, coconut cream, white rum, crushed ice, and simple syrup (if using) in your blender.

Step 2: Blend until smooth. Blend on high speed for about 30 seconds, or until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. You shouldn’t see any large chunks of ice or fruit.

Step 3: Taste and adjust. Give it a quick taste—if it’s too tart, add a bit more simple syrup. If it’s too thick, splash in more pineapple juice until you reach your desired texture.

Step 4: Serve immediately. Pour into a chilled hurricane or highball glass. The color should be a vivid pink-purple and the texture thick but pourable.

Step 5: Garnish to impress. Top your drink with whipped cream, a few fresh raspberries, and a wedge of pineapple. Feel free to add a cocktail umbrella or tropical straw for extra flair.

What to Serve with a Raspberry Piña Colada

This cocktail is wonderful all on its own, but pairing it with the right bites can elevate the whole experience. Here are a few perfect food pairings for your tropical drink:

Coconut shrimp with spicy mango sauce – The crispiness of the shrimp complements the creamy drink, while the mango sauce echoes the cocktail’s tropical vibe. Grilled chicken or pineapple skewers – Light, savory, and easy to eat—great for summer parties. Fresh fruit platter – Think watermelon, kiwi, and mango for a sweet and refreshing pairing. Cheese board – Soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese work beautifully with the drink’s tart and creamy flavors. Spicy tacos – Tacos with mango salsa or a spicy slaw are an unexpected but delicious companion.

Tips for the Best Raspberry Piña Colada

To take your drink from good to amazing, keep these pro tips in mind:

Use crushed ice instead of cubes. It blends faster and creates a smoother texture. Chill your glass before pouring the drink—it helps keep the cocktail colder longer and adds a professional touch. Always go for coconut cream, not milk. The richness of the cream is what gives this drink its signature body and flavor. Taste and tweak. Everyone’s palate is different, so adjust the sweetness and thickness to suit your preference. Garnish with intention. A beautifully garnished drink just tastes better. Trust me.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

While this drink is best served fresh, you can prep it in advance with a few tweaks:

To store leftovers, pour into a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to one month. To serve, let it thaw for 10 minutes and re-blend to restore the texture. Don’t refrigerate the drink after blending—it’ll separate and lose its smooth consistency. If you want to prep for a party, measure and combine the liquid ingredients ahead of time and refrigerate. When ready to serve, just blend with raspberries and ice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this without alcohol? Absolutely. Just skip the rum and double the pineapple juice, or add a bit of coconut water for an extra hydrating mocktail option.

What’s the difference between coconut milk and coconut cream? Coconut cream is thicker and richer, usually used in desserts or drinks like this. Coconut milk is more watery and works better in curries and soups. For best results in this drink, stick with cream.

Can I use fresh raspberries instead of frozen? You can, but you’ll need to add more ice to make up for the lack of chill from frozen fruit. You may also want to strain the mixture if you don’t like raspberry seeds.

How do I make simple syrup at home? Combine equal parts water and sugar in a small saucepan. Heat over medium until the sugar dissolves, then cool. Store in the fridge for up to two weeks.

What if I don’t have white rum? You can use dark rum for a deeper flavor or coconut rum for an extra coconut punch.

Conclusion: A New Favorite Summer Cocktail

If you’ve been looking for a way to level up your summer sipping game, this Raspberry Piña Colada is your answer. It’s creamy, fruity, and packed with personality. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or just pretending you are, this drink makes the moment feel like a mini vacation.

For more cocktails with color and character, don’t miss these related recipes that will absolutely bring the fun to your next gathering:

Try this refreshing Lifesaver Punch for a bubbly, fruity party drink that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

For another whimsical tropical twist, check out the Rainbow Sherbet Piña Colada, a creamy, colorful showstopper.

Or if you’re dreaming of beach days and sunsets, the Out of Office Punch will take you there—no plane ticket required.

Share Your Raspberry Piña Colada

If you make this recipe, I would truly love to see your version. Share your photos on Pinterest or tag me on Instagram and let me know how you made it your own. Did you add fresh mango? Go extra with the whipped cream? I want to hear all about it!

And if you loved this drink, please leave a comment or review below. Your feedback helps others discover it and helps me keep sharing recipes that bring a little more joy to your kitchen.

Approximate Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 265
Carbohydrates: 23g
Sugars: 18g
Fat: 9g
Alcohol: ~14% ABV
Fiber: 3g

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