Simple Pina Colada Smoothie

Smoothies are a go-to breakfast at our house. Whether it’s a refreshing mango pineapple smoothie or a chocolate banana smoothie for a sweet treat, you’ll see them at our breakfast table almost every day. This pina colada smoothie is particularly special. It combines the bright flavors of pineapple with creamy coconut milk and Greek yogurt, bringing all the tropical vibes to your kitchen without ever leaving the comfort of home.

If you are a busy parent like me (or even just a human on earth) there are days that you dream of escaping somewhere tropical. So instead of waiting till it was “5 o’clock somewhere” I tested out how I could make the flavors of one of my favorite vacation drinks into a smoothie that the whole family would love.

Starting with frozen fruit is the key to getting that thick, creamy consistency without needing ice. Frozen pineapple and bananas blend into a perfectly smooth base, and having them stocked in the freezer makes this recipe super easy. I do it in my frozen mixed berry smoothie, and it works great here too!

Ingredients

• Greek Yogurt:  I suggest plain or coconut flavored.  You can use a coconut yogurt if you need a dairy free alternative.
• Coconut Milk: I like to use the full fat variety that comes in a can.  Be sure to shake well before using.
• Frozen Pineapple and Banana: Buy frozen pineapple chunks at any grocery store and keep them as part of your stocked freezer stash.  When you have over ripe bananas, peel and freeze them on a baking tray.  Once frozen add them to a zip top bag and keep in the freezer to use as needed.
• Coconut Flakes (optional): If you like a little texture to your smoothie, add in the coconut flakes while blending. Or save them for a garnish at the end.

How to Make a Pina Colada Smoothie

Here’s how to whip up this delicious smoothie in just a few minutes:

1. Add Ingredients to Blender: Add the coconut milk, followed by Greek yogurt, frozen pineapple, and banana. If your blender needs a little help with frozen ingredients, start with the liquid and soft items on the bottom.
2. Blend It Smooth: Turn your blender on low at first, gradually increasing to high speed. Blend for about a minute or until the texture is ultra-smooth. If you have a high-speed blender like a Vitamix, use the tamper to push the ingredients down as needed.

3. Pour and Enjoy: Once the smoothie reaches a creamy, thick consistency, pour it into your favorite insulated cup or glass!

Blending Tip: If the smoothie is too thick, add a little extra milk. For an even creamier smoothie, use less liquid.

Variations

• Add Greens: For extra boost, throw in a handful of spinach or kale while you are blending. The smoothie will have a green color, but still taste just as refreshing.
• Go Nuts: Add a handful of almonds or cashews to make the smoothie more filling. Blend them for a minute first to make sure they fully incorporate into the other ingredients.
• Splash of booze:  Because why not?  Add a splash of your favorite coconut rum, because life is all about balance. Make this smoothie for cocktail hour and enjoy totally homemade frozen pina colada.
• Make it a bowl: A pina colada smoothie bowl is easy to make with the same ingredients. Just reduce the amount of liquid you put into the blender so that the mixture comes out extra thick. Pour into a bowl and garnish with sliced banana, pineapple and toasted coconut shreds.

Change up the Fruits

There are a ton of flavors that give tropical vibes when making smoothies.  Here are some of our favorites:

• Mango Banana
• Mango Pineapple
• Strawberry Pineapple
• Cherry Banana
• Triple Berry

Storage and Make Ahead Tips

If you’re making this pina colada smoothie to take on the go or enjoy later in the morning, pour it straight into an insulated cup to keep it cold. 

There are two methods you can use for making this smoothie ahead of time:

1. Make a big batch to store in mason jars in the freezer. Just leave a little room at the top before freezing—when you’re ready to drink, microwave for about a minute, stir, and enjoy. I like using these silicone lids right on top of the mason jar, but you can also transfer it to your insulated cup once it’s been thawed.
2. I love using my SouperCubes to make smoothie packs.  I freeze the Greek yogurt in the 2 Tablespoon cubes and then add that with the frozen fruit to a zip top bag. Then when you are ready to blend, just add in your milk, press go and enjoy a smoothie in less than a minute!

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