Craving a drink that feels like a tropical getaway in a glass? The BBC cocktail is a creamy, dreamy blend of banana, Baileys, and coconut that’s as indulgent as it is refreshing. Whether you’re lounging on a warm evening or looking to impress at your next gathering, this sweet treat is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I’ve made this cocktail countless times, and it never fails to bring a little slice of paradise to any occasion.
BBC
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious drink:
- 1 medium ripe banana (or about 1 oz/30 ml banana liqueur for a stronger banana flavor)
- 1 oz (30 ml) Baileys Irish Cream
- 1 oz (30 ml) coconut cream (or swap for coconut milk for a lighter option)
- Crushed ice (enough to blend to your desired consistency)
- Optional garnish: A fresh banana slice or a cherry
Serves: 1 drink
Prep time: 5 minutes
Method
- Peel and slice the banana into chunks. Add it to a blender along with the Baileys, coconut cream, and crushed ice.
- Blend everything together until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. You’re aiming for that perfect milkshake-like consistency.
- Pour the cocktail into a chilled highball glass or an old-fashioned glass—whichever you have on hand.
- Garnish with a slice of banana or a cherry for a fun finishing touch. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Use ripe bananas: The riper, the better! They’ll give your cocktail a natural sweetness and creamy texture.
- Chill your glass: Pop your serving glass in the freezer for a few minutes before pouring to keep the drink colder for longer.
- Experiment with the ice: Add more or less crushed ice to control how thick or slushy you want your cocktail.
Make-Ahead & Storage
While this cocktail is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the blended mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 4 hours. Just give it a good stir or quick blend again before serving. If you want to save time, pre-slice your bananas and freeze them—they’ll double as ice cubes when blending!
Variations
Looking to switch things up? Try one of these fun twists on the classic BBC:
Tropical BBC
- Add a splash of pineapple juice for a fruity, tropical vibe. Blend it right in with the original ingredients.
Chocolate BBC
- Drizzle in chocolate syrup before blending for a decadent dessert-like drink. Top with a sprinkle of cocoa powder for extra flair.
Virgin BBC
- Skip the Baileys and use almond milk with a splash of vanilla extract for a non-alcoholic version. It’s just as creamy and satisfying!
Serving Suggestions
Pair the BBC with foods that complement its sweet and creamy flavors:
- Grilled seafood: The smoky, savory notes of shrimp or fish balance beautifully with the cocktail’s richness.
- Chocolate desserts: Think chocolate mousse, brownies, or even a slice of chocolate cake for a match made in heaven.
- Tropical fruit platters: Mangoes, pineapples, and papayas highlight the cocktail’s fruity undertones.
I often serve this drink alongside a platter of fresh fruit and light snacks—it’s an easy way to create a laid-back, tropical vibe.
Substitutions & Customizations
- No Baileys? Swap it out for coconut rum to keep the tropical theme going.
- Watching calories? Use light coconut milk instead of coconut cream and opt for sugar-free syrups where possible.
- No blender? You can mash the banana well and mix everything by hand or use a cocktail shaker. The texture won’t be as smooth, but the flavors will still shine.
FAQs
Can I use frozen bananas?
Absolutely! Frozen bananas not only keep the drink icy cold but also add an extra creamy texture.
What if I don’t like coconut?
You can replace the coconut cream with regular cream or even almond milk for a different twist.
How do I make it less sweet?
Use unsweetened coconut milk and cut back on the Baileys slightly. You can also add a splash of cold coffee to tone down the sweetness and add depth.
Can I batch-make this for a party?
Yes! Just multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need and blend in batches. Serve in a punch bowl or pitcher with a ladle for easy serving.
Why You’ll Love It
The BBC cocktail is the perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and tropical flavors. It’s indulgent without being too heavy, making it ideal for everything from summer barbecues to cozy nights in. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Once you try it, I’m sure it’ll become one of your go-to drinks, just like it is for me. Cheers to your next mini vacation in a glass!
