Save This tropical pineapple coconut shake is my sunshine-in-a-glass when I miss the beach or crave something sweet and uplifting. With creamy coconut milk and juicy pineapple, each sip transports you straight to a breezy island morning. It is perfect for breakfast, an afternoon refresher, or a light dessert when you want a taste of the tropics at home.
Every time I make this shake the kitchen fills with tropical fragrance and I think back to our last family vacation where my kids tried to drink the blender dry. This recipe has become our go-to for summer pool parties and lazy Sunday mornings.
Ingredients
- Frozen pineapple chunks: create the thick creamy base and pack bright vitamin C flavor so select golden ripe pineapple for extra sweetness
- Banana: adds subtle sweetness and body creamy and mellow choose a just ripe banana for best texture
- Canned coconut milk: lends silky richness and authentic coconut taste I always look for full fat coconut milk for ultimate creaminess
- Cold water or coconut water: lightens the shake and keeps it refreshing coconut water adds a hint of extra coconut flavor too
- Maple syrup or honey (optional): natural sweetener to adjust to your taste use a small drizzle if you want a touch more sweetness and opt for pure varieties
Instructions
- Blend the Fruit and Coconut Milk:
- Add frozen pineapple chunks, banana, coconut milk, and cold water to your blender. If you like a sweeter shake drizzle in a little maple syrup or honey. Start your blender on low then increase to high and blend for about forty seconds until completely smooth and creamy with no chunks left.
- Adjust for Texture:
- If your shake is too thick add an extra splash of water or coconut water for your perfect sipping consistency. For an extra thick shake let it blend an extra fifteen seconds or use only frozen fruit and skip the added liquid.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Pour the creamy shake into chilled glasses. Garnish with a sprinkle of shredded coconut and a slice of pineapple for a classic island feel. Enjoy immediately while ice cold for the best flavor and texture.
Save I especially love the silky richness coconut milk brings to this shake. It reminds me of my childhood summers spent cracking open fresh coconuts with my grandmother. Now my own kids beg to help decorate each glass with pineapple and coconut flakes.
Storage Tips
This shake is best enjoyed right away for that ultra creamy frosty texture but if you need to make it in advance you can refrigerate it for up to twenty four hours Just stir and reblend with a bit of ice if separation occurs
Ingredient Substitutions
No pineapple on hand try frozen mango for a similar tropical flavor Almond or oat milk works in place of coconut milk for a lighter version If you want to skip banana swap with half an avocado for creaminess without added sweetness
Serving Suggestions
Dress up with a handful of shredded coconut and extra pineapple on top for eye catching presentation Pour a shot of rum for an easy adult piña colada twist perfect for parties Serve in hollowed out pineapple halves for a show stopping brunch treat
Save This shake brings a taste of the tropics to your kitchen and is sure to brighten any day. Sip slowly and savor each cool creamy mouthful.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I use fresh pineapple instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh pineapple works well, but using frozen pineapple gives a thicker, colder texture.
- → What can I use instead of coconut milk?
Almond milk or regular dairy milk makes a suitable replacement, but the coconut flavor will be milder.
- → Is it possible to add protein to this shake?
Yes, blend in a scoop of plain or vanilla protein powder for extra nutrition without altering the tropical taste.
- → How sweet is this shake naturally?
The natural sugars from ripe pineapple and banana provide most of the sweetness. Sweetener is optional.
- → Can I make this as a cocktail?
For a cocktail version, simply add a splash of rum before blending for a tropical adult beverage.