There’s nothing like sipping on a Hawaiian cocktail to bring a little sunshine to your day. It’s sweet, fruity, and creamy—with tropical flavors that instantly transport you to a breezy beachside moment. This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights with friends, and I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-dinner drinks that’s easy to make and always a hit.
Blue Hawaiian
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail (easily multiplied for a crowd)
Glassware: Highball or hurricane glass
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) white or light rum
– 3 oz (90 ml) pineapple juice (fresh if possible)
– 1 oz (30 ml) cream of coconut (like Coco López)
– Ice cubes
– Pineapple slice or maraschino cherry, for garnish
Method
- Fill a cocktail shaker about halfway with ice.
- Pour in the rum, pineapple juice, and cream of coconut.
- Shake well—about 15 seconds—until the outside of the shaker feels frosty. This helps blend the creamy coconut smoothly.
- Fill a highball or hurricane glass with fresh ice, then strain the cocktail over it.
- Garnish with a pineapple slice or cherry. If you’re feeling festive, go for both!
Tips & Tricks
– Use fresh pineapple juice if you can—it really brightens up the drink.
– Shake it well! Cream of coconut can be thick, so a good shake ensures everything blends into that smooth, tropical texture.
– If the drink feels too sweet for your taste, try adding a splash of club soda or a squeeze of lime to balance it out.
– You can make a pitcher version by multiplying the ingredients and mixing everything (except the ice) in advance. Store it in the fridge, then shake individual servings with ice before pouring.
Ingredient Substitutions
– No cream of coconut? Use canned coconut milk and add a little simple syrup or honey to taste.
– Want it lighter? Swap the cream of coconut for coconut water—it’s more refreshing and less rich.
– No rum? Vodka works too, though you’ll lose a bit of that classic tropical flavor.
Storage Notes
– If you’re prepping ahead, mix the rum, pineapple juice, and cream of coconut in a sealed jar or bottle and keep it chilled. Just shake with ice before serving.
– Once mixed with ice, it’s best enjoyed right away. The texture and chill don’t hold up well over time.
Serving Suggestions
This drink pairs beautifully with light, summery dishes. Here are a few favorites:
Grilled Chicken Skewers
The smoky flavor of grilled chicken plays nicely with the sweetness of the cocktail.
Fresh Tropical Fruit Salad
Think mango, kiwi, papaya—anything juicy and vibrant.
Spicy Snacks
Jalapeño poppers or spicy shrimp can be toned down by the creamy coconut and sweet pineapple.
I’ve made this drink countless times, and one trick I’ve picked up is to chill the glass beforehand. It keeps everything colder longer, especially on warm days.
Variations
Blue Hawaiian
– Add ½ oz (15 ml) blue curaçao for a bright blue twist.
– Mix it in with the other ingredients before shaking.
Spicy Hawaiian
– Muddle a thin slice of jalapeño in the shaker before adding the rest.
– Adds a subtle kick that balances the sweetness.
Winter Hawaiian
– Sprinkle a little cinnamon or nutmeg over the top after pouring.
– Adds cozy vibes for colder months.
Virgin Hawaiian (Non-Alcoholic)
– Skip the rum and add a splash of ginger ale or coconut water.
– Still tropical, still fun, and perfect for all ages.
FAQs
What makes a Hawaiian cocktail different from other tropical drinks?
It’s that creamy coconut and pineapple combo that really sets it apart. It’s like the laid-back cousin of a piña colada—less icy, more sippable.
Can I make a big batch for a party?
Absolutely. Multiply the ingredients and mix in a pitcher. Just give each serving a good shake with ice before pouring.
Do I need fancy rum?
Not at all. A mid-range white or light rum works great. Save the high-end stuff for sipping.
Can I adjust the sweetness?
Yes! Use less cream of coconut or add a squeeze of lime. A splash of soda water can also help cut the sweetness.
What garnishes make it more festive?
Try a drink umbrella, edible flowers, or even a sugar rim for extra flair.
Final Thoughts
A Hawaiian cocktail is more than just a drink—it’s a little tropical escape in a glass. Whether you’re hosting a backyard luau or just winding down after a long day, this cocktail brings a fun, fruity vibe that’s hard to beat. Don’t be afraid to play with the flavors and make it your own. Cheers to island vibes, wherever you are!
