Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with our Virgin Ocean Love Colada, a refreshing non-alcoholic twist on the classic piña colada. This vibrant blue drink combines the creamy sweetness of coconut with tangy pineapple, all while showcasing a stunning ocean-inspired hue that makes it perfect for summer gatherings, poolside parties, or anytime you need a mini vacation in a glass.
What makes this mocktail special is the beautiful layering technique that creates a mesmerizing ocean effect, reminiscent of crystal-clear Caribbean waters. It’s visually impressive yet surprisingly simple to make, ensuring you’ll be the host with the most without spending hours behind the bar.
Why You’ll Love This
- No alcohol needed – perfect for all ages and occasions
- Instagram-worthy presentation – the blue ombré effect creates a stunning visual
- Customizable sweetness – easily adjust to suit your taste preferences
- Make-ahead friendly – prepare components in advance for easy assembly
- Refreshingly tropical – tastes like vacation even when you’re at home
Ingredients
- 2 ounces coconut water or coconut milk (coconut milk will give a creamier result)
- 2 ounces pineapple juice (fresh or high-quality bottled)
- 1 ounce coconut cream (not cream of coconut, which is sweetened)
- 1/2 cup crushed ice
- 1 ounce blue food coloring mixed with a splash of lemon juice (or blue butterfly pea flower tea for a natural alternative)
- 1 tablespoon blueberry puree (blend fresh or frozen blueberries until smooth)
- Whipped cream for topping (use coconut whipped cream for a vegan option)
- 1 pineapple wedge
- 5-6 fresh or frozen blueberries
Instructions
- Before you begin, ensure all your ingredients are properly chilled for the best results. If using butterfly pea flower tea instead of food coloring, brew it ahead of time and allow it to cool completely. If making blueberry puree from scratch, blend a handful of blueberries until smooth and strain if desired to remove any skin pieces.
- In a blender, combine the coconut water (or coconut milk), pineapple juice, coconut cream, and crushed ice. Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy, with a slushy-like consistency. This should take about 30-45 seconds depending on your blender’s power.
- Select a tall, clear glass to showcase the beautiful layers and swirls of your drink. Pour the blended coconut-pineapple mixture into the glass, filling it about 3/4 of the way to leave room for the garnishes.
- Carefully and slowly drizzle the blue mixture (food coloring with lemon juice or butterfly pea flower tea) around the inner edge of the glass, allowing it to naturally cascade down through the white base. Then add small spoonfuls of the blueberry puree in different spots around the top of the drink.
- Using a straw, skewer, or the handle end of a long spoon, gently make a few swirling motions through the drink. Don’t overmix – the goal is to create beautiful blue swirls that resemble ocean waves against the creamy white background. Just 3-4 gentle swirls should be sufficient.
- Top the drink with a generous swirl of whipped cream. If using a piping bag, create a decorative spiral on top. If you don’t have a piping bag, simply spoon the whipped cream on top and gently spread it in a circular motion.
- Place a pineapple wedge on the rim of the glass, pressing it gently to secure it in place. Sprinkle the fresh or frozen blueberries on top of the whipped cream. For an extra touch, you can add a colorful paper straw or cocktail umbrella. Serve immediately while cold and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- Color variations: Substitute blue curaçao syrup with grenadine for a sunset effect or use butterfly pea flower tea for a natural blue color.
- Frozen version: Add more ice and blend everything together for a slushy texture.
- Creamier texture: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or coconut sorbet to the blender.
- Flavor boost: Add ½ teaspoon vanilla extract or a dash of nutmeg for complexity.
- Presentation tip: Freeze pineapple chunks to use as ice cubes that won’t dilute your drink.
- Adult version: For those who want an alcoholic option, add 2 ounces of white rum per serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these gorgeous mocktails alongside tropical appetizers like coconut shrimp, pineapple salsa with tortilla chips, or Hawaiian-style sliders. For a dessert pairing, try serving with mini key lime tarts or coconut macaroons.
These drinks are perfect for themed parties – consider setting up a DIY mocktail bar where guests can customize their own Ocean Love Coladas with various garnishes and mix-ins like mango chunks, strawberries, or mint leaves.
Notes
- For best layering results, pour the blue mixture very slowly over the back of a spoon.
- The components can be prepared up to 4 hours ahead and stored separately in the refrigerator.
- This recipe is easily doubled or tripled for larger gatherings.
- For a less sweet version, use unsweetened coconut cream and adjust with a natural sweetener to taste.
FAQs
Can I make this without a blender?
Yes! Simply stir the coconut cream and pineapple juice vigorously with ice in a cocktail shaker or mason jar until well combined and chilled.
Where can I find non-alcoholic blue curaçao syrup?
Look for it in the cocktail mixer section of your grocery store, specialty beverage shops, or online. Alternatively, use blue food coloring with a splash of orange extract.
How do I prevent the layers from mixing?
Ensure your coconut layer is very cold and thick. Pour the blue layer very slowly over the back of a spoon, and avoid moving the glasses too much before serving.
Can I prepare this drink in advance for a party?
Prepare the white and blue mixtures separately up to a day ahead, but assemble the drinks shortly before serving for the best visual effect and texture.
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