If you’re ready to sip your way into a tropical state of mind, the Key Lime Colada is about to become your newest obsession. This luxuriously creamy, citrus-splashed cocktail pairs the tangy brightness of key lime juice with the sweet embrace of coconut and pineapple, all spun up into a frosty, dreamy treat that’s perfect for pool days, backyard BBQs, or whenever you need a getaway in a glass. Whether you’re treating yourself on a sunny afternoon or serving up something unforgettable for friends, the Key Lime Colada delivers paradise—no plane ticket required.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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For the Key Lime Colada:
- 2 ounces key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
- 2 ounces cream of coconut
- 1 1/2 ounces white rum
- 1 ounce pineapple juice
- 1/2 ounce triple sec (optional)
- 1/2 cup crushed ice
For Garnish (optional):
- lime wedge
- graham cracker crumbs
- whipped cream
How to Make Key Lime Colada
Step 1: Prep Your Glass and Garnishes
Begin by chilling your favorite cocktail glass. For the ultimate tropical experience, run a lime wedge around the rim, then dip it into crushed graham cracker crumbs to echo the flavors of key lime pie. Not only does this add a playful touch, but every sip gets a bit more personality!
Step 2: Blend the Ingredients
In a blender, combine 2 ounces of key lime juice, 2 ounces of cream of coconut, 1 1/2 ounces of white rum, 1 ounce of pineapple juice, and, if you love added complexity, 1/2 ounce of triple sec. Add 1/2 cup of crushed ice. Secure the lid and blend until the mixture is exceptionally smooth and creamy, with no chunks of ice left.
Step 3: Pour and Garnish
Pour your luscious Key Lime Colada into the prepared glass. For a finishing flourish, crown it with a swirl of whipped cream and a wedge of lime. Feeling extra fancy? A sprinkle of more graham cracker crumbs or a pineapple leaf can send your presentation over the top. Serve right away, and let the vacation vibes begin!
How to Serve Key Lime Colada
Garnishes
Elevate every glass of Key Lime Colada with creative garnishes. The classic lime wedge not only adds a pop of color, but lets guests amp up the citrusy brightness as they sip. Graham cracker crumbs along the rim transform the drink into a sippable key lime pie, and a dot of whipped cream gives it rich, dessert-like flair. For extra fun, sprinkle a little toasted coconut or add a pineapple leaf for a bona fide beach-bar look.
Side Dishes
Pair your Key Lime Colada with simple, sunshine-inspired snacks that keep the tropical mood going strong. Light bites like coconut shrimp, mango salsa with tortilla chips, or a spread of fresh fruit are all fabulous choices. They accent the cocktail’s citrusy tang while cleansing the palate between creamy, icy sips.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your Key Lime Colada game up a notch by serving in hollowed-out coconuts, mini mason jars, or tiki mugs for a whimsical vibe. Hosting a summer party? Create a build-your-own garnish station so guests can top their drinks with everything from fresh berries to colorful cocktail umbrellas. Presentation makes every glass feel like a mini celebration!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftover Key Lime Colada (lucky you!), store it in an airtight container or a sealed mason jar in the refrigerator. The texture may become slightly less frosty as it sits, but the flavors will still shine. Give it a quick shake or stir before serving again.
Freezing
For longer-term storage, pour any extra Key Lime Colada mixture into an ice cube tray and freeze. When you’re ready to enjoy another glass, simply blend the frozen cubes with a splash of pineapple juice or coconut milk to restore that fresh, slushy texture. It’s like a grown-up popsicle in drink form!
Reheating
No reheating necessary here—this cocktail is made for sipping icy cold! If your Key Lime Colada has melted a bit, just pop it back in the blender with some fresh ice to re-chill and revive its creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I make the Key Lime Colada without alcohol?
Absolutely! For a delicious non-alcoholic version, simply skip the rum and triple sec, and replace them with extra pineapple juice or a splash of coconut milk. You’ll still get those tangy, tropical flavors without any of the booze.
Is bottled key lime juice okay, or does it have to be fresh?
While fresh key lime juice gives the brightest, most vibrant flavor, bottled key lime juice is a fantastic timesaver and works beautifully in this recipe. If you have access to fresh key limes, by all means squeeze away—but don’t hesitate to use bottled for convenience.
What kind of cream of coconut should I use?
Look for cream of coconut in the cocktail aisle or the international section of your grocery store—brands like Coco López are the gold standard for making rich, smooth, sweet beverages. Avoid using coconut milk or coconut cream, as they won’t yield the same results.
Can I make a large batch of Key Lime Colada for parties?
Absolutely! This recipe scales up beautifully. Simply multiply the ingredients for however many drinks you’ll need, blend in batches, and keep the mixture in a chilled pitcher or punch bowl. Just give it a quick stir or re-blend before serving to keep the slushy texture perfect.
What if I don’t have graham cracker crumbs for the rim?
No worries! While the graham cracker rim gives a nod to key lime pie, your Key Lime Colada will still be delicious without it. Try substituting crushed vanilla cookies, toasted coconut, or even just stick with the classic lime wedge for a simpler garnish.
Final Thoughts
Can you practically taste summer calling your name? The Key Lime Colada is a truly irresistible, easy-to-make treat that captures the perfect blend of tart, sweet, and creamy in every icy sip. Shake up your next get-together, taco night, or solo relaxation session with this cheerful cocktail—one glass and you’ll be hooked on the magic of Key Lime Colada.
Print
Key Lime Colada Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Blended
- Cuisine: American, Tropical
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a taste of the tropics with this refreshing Key Lime Colada cocktail. Creamy coconut, tangy key lime, and sweet pineapple come together in this delightful frozen drink.
Ingredients
For the Key Lime Colada:
- 2 ounces key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
- 2 ounces cream of coconut
- 1 1/2 ounces white rum
- 1 ounce pineapple juice
- 1/2 ounce triple sec (optional)
- 1/2 cup crushed ice
For Garnish (optional):
- lime wedge
- graham cracker crumbs
- whipped cream
Instructions
- Rim the Glass: Rim a chilled glass with lime juice and dip in graham cracker crumbs if desired.
- Blend Ingredients: In a blender, combine key lime juice, cream of coconut, white rum, pineapple juice, triple sec (if using), and crushed ice. Blend until smooth.
- Pour and Garnish: Pour the mixture into the prepared glass. Garnish with a lime wedge and whipped cream.
- Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- For a non-alcoholic version, omit the rum and triple sec and increase pineapple juice or add coconut milk.
- Opt for fresh key lime juice for the best flavor, but bottled juice works well too.
- Chill all ingredients for an extra refreshing drink.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 drink
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
