Pina Colada Mocktail (Virgin Pina Colada Recipe)

When you're craving a tropical escape without the alcohol, this virgin piña colada has got you covered! It's Creamy, sweet, and bursting with fresh pineapple flavor...honestly, it’s like a mini vacation in a glass. It's perfect for poolside sipping, family gatherings, or a cozy movie night at home. Plus, this piña colada mocktail couldn't be easier to make.

Why I Love This Virgin Piña Colada Recipe

I first tried a virgin piña colada on a family vacation, and it instantly became my favorite tropical drink. The creamy coconut milk blended with sweet pineapple felt indulgent but light at the same time.

Back home, I couldn’t resist recreating it, and I didn't stop tweaking the recipe until I found this perfect balance. Spoiler, I found it!

Now, it’s a favorite treat to share with friends and family, especially on warm days when we all need a refreshing escape. I know, I know you're thinking to yourself,  "Joe why are you sharing this recipe in January then?" Well, "dry January" is in full-effect, and this piña colada mocktail is the perfect treat to make during the month - especially if you need a little treat to take your mind on a little vacation (without the alcohol of course).

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 cups frozen pineapple chunks – For that frosty, fruity base.
• 1 cup light coconut milk, canned – Adds creaminess and a tropical touch.
• ½ cup pineapple juice – Enhances the sweet pineapple flavor.
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup, agave, or simple syrup – Adjust the sweetness to your liking.

How to Make Virgin Piña Coladas

Just a handful of steps are all you have to follow to make non alcoholic pina coladas. The best part is they'll take less than a handful of minutes to complete.

Step 1: Blend the Ingredients

Combine the frozen pineapple chunks, light coconut milk, pineapple juice, and maple syrup (or agave/simple syrup) in a blender.

Step 2: Blend Until Creamy

Blend on high speed until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides if necessary.

Step 3: Adjust Sweetness

Taste and adjust the sweetness with a little extra maple syrup or agave/simple syrup, if desired.

Step 4: Pour and Garnish

Pour the creamy mixture into two glasses. Garnish with maraschino cherries, pineapple wedges, or a sprig of mint for a festive flair.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately with a straw, and enjoy your refreshing virgin piña colada.

My Expert Tips

• Freeze fresh pineapple for maximum flavor. Fresh pineapple chunks that you freeze yourself have a brighter, juicier taste than most store-bought frozen pineapple. They also double as ice cubes, keeping your virgin piña colada thick and frosty without watering it down.
• Make it a slushie. Blend in a handful of ice cubes for an ultra-refreshing frozen texture. For a creamier consistency, freeze coconut milk in ice cube trays and use those instead.
• Balance the sweetness. Depending on your pineapple and coconut milk, the drink can vary in sweetness. If it’s too sweet, add a splash of lime juice for balance. If you want more indulgence, blend in a drizzle of honey or agave.
• Style it like a resort drink. For that tropical, vacation vibe, serve in a hurricane glass with a pineapple wedge, cherry, and a paper umbrella. This small touch makes the drink feel extra special, whether you’re serving it for parties or just enjoying a summer evening.
• Add toasted coconut for a garnish. Toast coconut flakes in a skillet for 2-3 minutes until golden and sprinkle on top to make this mocktail resort-worthy.
• Make it more indulgent. Swap light coconut milk for full-fat coconut cream if you prefer a thicker, richer drink. 

FAQ About This Piña Colada Mocktail Recipe

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of frozen?

Yes! Fresh pineapple works well. If you use fresh instead of frozen, just add a handful of ice cubes to the blender for that frosty texture. For maximum flavor, freeze your own pineapple chunks in advance—they’re sweeter and juicier than most store-bought frozen options.

What can I use instead of coconut milk?

Coconut milk gives this non-alcoholic piña colada its signature flavor, but if you don’t have it, almond milk, oat milk, or even regular milk will work. Just keep in mind that the coconut flavor will be less pronounced, and the texture may be thinner. For the closest substitute, try coconut cream.

How do I make it less sweet?

Piña coladas can vary in sweetness depending on your fruit and coconut milk. For a lighter taste, use unsweetened coconut milk or coconut cream, and reduce or skip the maple syrup/agave. A splash of lime juice also helps balance out the natural sweetness of the pineapple.

Can I make it ahead of time?

This piña colada mocktail is best served fresh, but you can blend it up to 1 hour in advance and store it in the refrigerator. I like to refrigerate it right in the blender. Stir or re-blend before serving, since the mixture may separate slightly as it sits.

Can I make a large batch for a party?

Yes! Simply double or triple the ingredients and blend in batches. Transfer to a large pitcher and store in the freezer for up to 30 minutes before serving to keep it cold and slushy. Give it a quick stir before pouring into glasses.

How do I make it creamier?

For a richer texture, swap coconut milk for full-fat coconut cream or add a scoop of vanilla yogurt. This makes the mocktail extra smooth and indulgent, similar to a dessert drink.

Can I turn this into a cocktail?

Definitely. To make a classic piña colada cocktail, just add 1–2 ounces of white rum per serving before blending. Keep one pitcher alcohol-free and another spiked if you’re serving a crowd with mixed preferences. 

Final Thoughts

This piña colada mocktail recipe is tropical perfection in a glass. Whether you’re cooling off on a sunny day, following dry January, or just adding a non-alcoholic option to your next party, this creamy, dreamy drink is sure to impress.

As always, if you give it a shot, let me know how you liked it by leaving a review and comment below.

More Drink Recipes To Try Next

• Starbuck's Pink Drink
• Tropical Smoothie Bahama mama
• Starbuck's medicine ball
• Russian Tea