This frozen cocktail is a beach vacation in a glass. The Miami Vice blends two beloved drinks—Strawberry Daiquiri and Piña Colada—into one gorgeous, fruity, and refreshing treat. Sweet strawberries meet creamy coconut and pineapple, layered together for that iconic tropical look and taste. I’ve made this drink countless times for backyard BBQs and lazy pool days—it never fails to impress.
Miami Vice Frozen Cocktail
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 10 minutes
Servings: 2 generous cocktails
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) white rum, divided
– 1 cup (240 ml) strawberry purée (fresh or thawed frozen strawberries blended until smooth)
– 1 cup (240 ml) Piña Colada mix (store-bought or homemade—see tip below)
– 2 cups (about 240 g) ice, divided
– Fresh strawberries and/or pineapple wedges, for garnish (optional)
Equipment
– Blender
– Hurricane glasses or any tall, clear glasses
– Spoon (for layering)
Method
- Make the strawberry layer: In your blender, combine 1 cup strawberry purée, 1 oz (30 ml) white rum, and 1 cup ice. Blend until smooth and slushy. Pour into your glass and set in the freezer while you prep the next layer.
- Rinse the blender. This helps keep the layers clean and distinct.
- Make the Piña Colada layer: Blend 1 cup Piña Colada mix, 1 oz (30 ml) white rum, and 1 cup ice until smooth.
- Layer the drink: Slowly pour the Piña Colada mix over the back of a spoon onto the strawberry layer. This helps keep the two layers separate and gives you that beautiful red-and-white effect.
- Garnish and serve: Add a fresh strawberry or pineapple wedge to the rim. Serve right away and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Freeze your fruit before blending for a thicker, frostier texture.
- Pour slowly when layering—use a spoon to help keep the layers from mixing.
- Use fresh fruit for a brighter, more natural flavor. Frozen works too—just thaw it slightly before blending.
Make-Ahead Notes
You can prep both layers ahead of time. Store them in separate airtight containers in the freezer for up to 24 hours. Just give them a quick blend again before layering to bring back that smooth texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
– Rum: Coconut rum adds an extra tropical twist. Spiced rum gives it a warm, cozy kick.
– Strawberry Purée: Swap in raspberry, mango, or a mixed berry blend.
– Piña Colada Mix: Make your own with ½ cup (120 ml) coconut milk + ½ cup (120 ml) pineapple juice + 1–2 tsp honey or agave.
Storage
This drink is best served fresh and frozen. Leftovers can be stored in the freezer for up to a day. Blend again before serving to bring back that slushy texture.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail shines at summer get-togethers, pool parties, or whenever you need a taste of the tropics.
Pair it with:
- Grilled shrimp: The smoky char pairs beautifully with the cocktail’s fruity sweetness.
- Tropical fruit salad: Think pineapple, mango, kiwi, and maybe a squeeze of lime.
- Spicy tacos: The creamy drink cools down the heat from bold, spicy fillings.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights on the patio—it’s just the right mix of fun, flavor, and a little flair.
Variations to Try
Blue Miami Vice
– Replace the strawberry layer with a blue curaçao slush (blue curaçao + rum + ice) for a colorful twist.
Miami Vice Mojito
– Add a handful of fresh mint to the strawberry layer before blending. It gives a cool herbal note that’s super refreshing.
Miami Vice Margarita
– Swap the Piña Colada layer for a frozen margarita (margarita mix + rum + ice). It’s tangy, sweet, and totally satisfying.
Virgin Miami Vice
– Just leave out the rum! Blend strawberry purée and Piña Colada mix with ice. It’s kid-friendly and still super tasty.
Common Questions
Why is it called a Miami Vice?
It’s named after the flashy 1980s TV show set in Miami. The drink’s bold colors and tropical flavors match the city’s vibrant, beachy vibe.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes! Blend each layer and freeze separately. Re-blend before serving to restore the texture.
Do I need to use Piña Colada mix?
Nope! You can easily make your own with coconut milk and pineapple juice. It tastes fresher and lets you control the sweetness.
What kind of rum works best?
White rum is the classic choice. Coconut rum adds more tropical flavor, and spiced rum gives it a little extra warmth.
How do I get clean layers?
Pour the second layer slowly over the back of a spoon. That gentle flow helps prevent mixing.
Can I use frozen fruit?
Absolutely! In fact, frozen strawberries or pineapple make the drink even frostier and more refreshing.
Whether you’re lounging by the pool or just wishing you were, this Miami Vice Frozen Cocktail brings the beach to you. Try it once, and it just might become your favorite summer sip.
