Piña Colada Sangria is a tropical twist on the classic sangria, combining the fruity flavors of pineapple, coconut, and white wine for a refreshing and festive beverage. Perfect for summer gatherings, pool parties, or anytime you crave a vacation in a glass, this drink will transport you straight to a beachside paradise. It’s easy to make in advance, so you can relax and enjoy your party without any fuss. With juicy pineapple chunks and a hint of coconut rum, this sangria is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
If you love the flavors of a classic piña colada but want something lighter and more suitable for sharing, this Piña Colada Sangria is the answer. Sangria is traditionally made with wine and fruit, and by adding the tropical flavors of pineapple and coconut, we’ve created a drink that tastes like summer in every sip. It’s light, fruity, and has just the right amount of sweetness to keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re hosting friends for a barbecue or just relaxing on a warm evening, this sangria is the perfect way to celebrate.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 1 bottle (750 ml) dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
- 1 cup coconut rum
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup cream of coconut
- 1 cup sparkling water or club soda
- 1 1/2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
- 1 lime, sliced
- 1/2 cup maraschino cherries
- Ice, for serving
Instructions
- Mix the Base: In a large pitcher, combine the white wine, coconut rum, pineapple juice, and cream of coconut. Stir well until the cream of coconut is fully dissolved. This step ensures that all of the flavors blend well together, creating a creamy, tropical base for your sangria.
- Add the Fruit: Add the pineapple chunks, lime slices, and maraschino cherries to the pitcher. Stir to combine. The fruit not only adds flavor but also makes the sangria visually appealing, with bright pops of color that invite you to take a sip.
- Chill: Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor. The longer the sangria chills, the more the flavors meld together, resulting in a more cohesive and delicious drink. Overnight chilling is highly recommended if you have the time, as it allows the wine and fruit to fully infuse.
- Serve: When ready to serve, add ice to the pitcher and top with sparkling water or club soda. Stir gently to combine. The sparkling water adds a touch of effervescence that makes this sangria refreshing and light. Serve in glasses over ice, making sure to include some of the fruit in each glass. Garnish with extra lime slices or a wedge of pineapple for an added tropical touch.
Tips for Perfect Piña Colada Sangria
- Chill Time: Letting the sangria chill for at least 2 hours allows the flavors to meld together, making the drink more flavorful. If you can, make it the night before to give the ingredients plenty of time to infuse.
- Cream of Coconut: Be sure to use cream of coconut, not coconut milk, for the creamy, sweet flavor that makes this drink special. Cream of coconut is thicker and sweeter, giving the sangria its signature richness.
- Sparkling Water: Add the sparkling water just before serving to keep the sangria bubbly and refreshing. If you add it too soon, it will lose its fizz while chilling in the fridge.
- Use Fresh Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is key to achieving the best flavor. Canned pineapple can be used in a pinch, but fresh pineapple will give you the juiciest, most vibrant taste.
- Keep it Cool: Serve the sangria over plenty of ice to keep it chilled. On a hot day, you can also freeze some of the pineapple chunks and use them in place of ice cubes to avoid diluting the drink.
Recipe Variations
- Strawberry Piña Colada Sangria: Add 1 cup of sliced strawberries for an extra fruity twist. The sweetness of the strawberries pairs beautifully with the pineapple and coconut, adding another layer of flavor.
- Mango Piña Colada Sangria: Substitute half of the pineapple chunks with fresh mango for a delicious mango-pineapple combination. Mango adds a slightly different tropical flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
- Berry Coconut Sangria: Add a mix of fresh berries, such as blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries, to the sangria for a burst of color and a tangy contrast to the sweet pineapple and coconut.
- Non-Alcoholic Version: Replace the white wine with white grape juice and the coconut rum with coconut-flavored sparkling water for a kid-friendly version. You’ll still get the tropical flavor without the alcohol, making it perfect for all ages.
- Frozen Piña Colada Sangria: For a frozen twist, blend the pineapple chunks with some of the pineapple juice and cream of coconut to create a slushy sangria. This version is perfect for really hot days when you want something extra refreshing.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of wine?
A: Yes! While a dry white wine works best, you can use a sweeter wine like Moscato if you prefer a sweeter sangria. A semi-sweet Riesling can also work well, especially if you like a balance of sweetness and acidity.
Q: How long can I store Piña Colada Sangria?
A: The sangria can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just add the sparkling water right before serving to maintain the fizzy texture. The flavors will continue to develop, so it might even taste better the next day.
Q: Can I make this sangria ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! In fact, making it ahead of time allows the flavors to blend beautifully. Just wait to add the sparkling water until you’re ready to serve to keep it bubbly and refreshing.
Q: What can I use instead of cream of coconut?
A: If you can’t find cream of coconut, you can make a substitute by mixing coconut milk with a bit of sugar. However, the result won’t be quite as thick or sweet as using cream of coconut, which gives the sangria its signature richness.
Piña Colada Sangria is the perfect tropical drink to bring a taste of the islands to your next gathering. With its blend of pineapple, coconut, and crisp white wine, this sangria is refreshing, light, and delightfully fruity. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply enjoying a warm evening, this easy-to-make sangria will have you and your guests feeling like you’re on a tropical vacation.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. You can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste, add your favorite fruits, or even make it non-alcoholic for everyone to enjoy. The combination of creamy coconut, juicy pineapple, and the lightness of white wine makes every sip a refreshing escape. So grab your pitcher, mix up a batch of Piña Colada Sangria, and toast to good times, warm sunshine, and the flavors of the tropics. Cheers to good times and delicious drinks!
