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We’ve all been there—kids hollering from the backyard, inbox overflowing, and you just need five minutes of peace. That’s exactly when I reached for my blender and stumbled upon what I now call my midweek escape: the Ocean Love Colada. This dreamy blue-and-white layered drink recipe was born out of my need to channel a little tropical love without boarding a plane—or even leaving my kitchen.
Whether you’re winding down after work, entertaining friends on the patio, or just craving something a little fabulous on a random Tuesday, this Ocean Love Colada is your new go-to drink recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Ocean Love Colada
- Tastes Like Paradise – Think creamy coconut, tangy pineapple, and a kiss of citrus with a mesmerizing swirl of ocean blue.
- Party-Ready or Solo-Safe – Makes a show-stopping cocktail for guests, or a quiet treat for one.
- Cool & Refreshing – Crushed ice and coconut cream keep this frosty and fabulous.
- Kid-Friendly Option – Swap the booze for fun, fizzy substitutes (hello, citrus soda).
- Visually Stunning – A true Instagrammable moment with glitter, umbrellas, and tropical fruit.
Ingredients
Let’s talk flavor first, because this isn’t your run-of-the-mill blue cocktail. This Ocean Love Colada recipe brings major beach vibes to your kitchen.
For One Serving:
- 2 oz white rum (or coconut rum if you’re in a tiki kind of mood)
- 1 oz blue curaçao
- 2 oz coconut cream (not coconut milk—this is the thick, sweet stuff)
- 2 oz pineapple juice
- ½ oz fresh lime juice (optional but brightens things up!)
- ½ cup crushed ice or ice cubes
Garnish:
- Pineapple wedge
- Maraschino cherry
- Fresh mint sprig
- Edible glitter or cocktail umbrella (go big or go beachy!)
Non-Alcoholic Substitutions:
- Swap rum for coconut milk or coconut water
- Swap blue curaçao for blue raspberry syrup or blue food coloring + citrus soda
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Chill Your Glass
Pop your serving glass in the freezer for 10–15 minutes. Trust me, this tiny step makes a big difference in keeping your drink cold and pretty.
2. Blend the Creamy Base
In your blender, add:
- 2 oz coconut cream
- 2 oz pineapple juice
- ½ oz lime juice (if using)
- 2 oz rum
- ½ cup crushed ice
Blend until smooth and creamy. You’re going for a texture like a piña colada—thick but pourable.
3. Shake the Blue Curaçao
In a shaker or a small glass, mix:
- 1 oz blue curaçao
- A splash of pineapple juice
- A few ice cubes
Shake or stir gently to chill. You want this cool but not watered down.
4. Pour with a Swirl
Take that frosty glass out of the freezer. Pour in your white, creamy blend first. Then, using the back of a spoon, slowly drizzle your blue curaçao over the top. It’ll swirl like a tropical tide pool—gorgeous!
5. Garnish & Glam It Up
Top your Ocean Love Colada with a pineapple wedge, cherry, and mint. Feeling extra? Sprinkle some edible glitter or stick in a paper umbrella. Serve immediately with a wide straw and a big smile.
Pro Tips & Tricks
- Use Crushed Ice: It blends smoother and gives that dreamy frozen texture.
- Layer Like a Pro: Pour slowly over the back of a spoon for perfect swirls.
- Make it a Mocktail: Blue raspberry syrup + coconut milk + citrus soda = happiness in a glass.
- Double Trouble: Hosting a party? This recipe doubles (or triples!) beautifully in a pitcher.
- Don’t Skip the Chill: A cold glass keeps the swirl intact and your drink from separating too fast.
A Personal Kitchen Story
I first made this Ocean Love Colada on a sweltering July evening while dodging a laundry pile and dreaming of Maui. One sip, and suddenly the laundry didn’t matter anymore. My husband said it looked like a drink from a beach resort—I took that as a win and made a second round!
FAQs
Can I make the Ocean Love Colada recipe ahead of time?
Sort of! You can pre-blend the creamy base and chill the blue layer separately, but wait to assemble until just before serving for the best swirl effect.
What if I don’t have blue curaçao?
Use blue raspberry syrup or a mix of blue food coloring and lemon-lime soda for a non-alcoholic version. It’s still stunning!
Is coconut cream the same as coconut milk?
Nope! Coconut cream is much thicker and sweeter—think “dessert-worthy.” You can find it in the cocktail mixer aisle or Asian food section.
What alcohol pairs best in this drink recipe besides rum?
Vodka or even tequila work, but coconut rum really dials up the beachy vibe.
Can I batch this Ocean Love Colada drink recipe for a party?
Absolutely! Just blend a bigger batch of the base and blue layer separately, then layer as you pour each glass.
Final Thoughts
There’s something downright magical about the Ocean Love Colada. It’s more than just a drink recipe—it’s a mini escape in a glass. Whether you’re hosting a backyard luau or enjoying a solo spa night, this cocktail brings tropical joy with every sip. Give it a try, snap a pic, and don’t forget to tag me—I need to see your glitter game!