The original recipe of the famous tropical drink, the first Piña Colada cocktail was created at the Caribe Hilton in Puerto Rico and is made with silver rum, coconut cream, and fresh pineapple juice.

While it may be cold and snowy currently here in Michigan, I’m dreaming of warmer, sunnier days, like when I recently visited Puerto Rico and stayed at the Caribe Hilton. I usually travel to tropical climates in the winter. Not only is it peaceful going in the off season, but it is a great retreat from the less than ideal weather we get in the northern United States! The Caribe Hilton is well-known for being the birthplace of the original Piña Colada, so while I’ve shared spin-offs like my piña colada protein smoothie, I also wanted to share the OG cocktail!

The Caribe Hilton Hotel

The Caribe Hilton resort hosts secluded beaches, a world class fitness center and spa, four luxurious pools, nearby shopping, hammock gardens, and delicious food and drink. They offer kid friendly activities and accommodations as well as kid-free. I loved relaxing by the pool, exploring the historic parts of the city, and trying what food they had to offer.

The rooms and suites are all comfortable and spacious, and include either a garden view or beach view. I slept like a baby! This mom’s trip away was well worth it with this level of comfort.

While the Caribe Hilton offers many dining options, including private dining, Starbucks, and swim-up bars. I really enjoyed La Rustica for it’s Italian and seafood options, as well as Lola’s for the authentic Puerto Rican cuisine. Wherever you dine, I highly recommend you try some fresh seafood!

The swim-up bars and the Caribar will serve you the incredible Piña Colada which inspires the recipe I’m sharing today. I enjoyed quite a few poolside myself, and look forward to trying to recreate the experience at home!

Ingredients

• Rum: While you could technically use any rum, a silver or gold rum is best.
• Coconut cream: Cream of coconut is thicker and sweeter than coconut milk, and adds to the creamy, sweet taste of the cocktail.
• Heavy cream: Makes the cocktail even creamier.
• Pineapple juice: Fresh pineapple juice adds acidity, citrus, and natural sweetness.

How to Make an Original Piña Colada

Step 1. Add all of the ingredients to a blender with some ice.

Step 2. Blend until smooth before pouring into glasses. Alternatively, you can shake all ingredients in a cocktail shaker and pour over ice.

Garnish with fresh pineapple or umbrellas if you are feeling a bit fancy, and enjoy your Original Piña Colada!

Frequently Asked Questions

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Drink It, Like It, Share It!

Did you try this cocktail and love it? The next time you make it, snap a picture and share it to your socials. Tag @thelemonbowl and #thelemonbowl so we can admire and share your meal.

If you have the opportunity to visit the Caribe Hilton and try the Original Pina Colada yourself, you will not be disappointed! In the meantime, give the recipe a try at home to give yourself a taste of the tropics.

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