Basil Piña Colada
Summer is the perfect time for rum cocktails, and if you’re looking for something fresh, fruity, and a little unexpected, this Basil Piña Colada is your new go-to. It’s tropical, herbaceous, and just the thing to blend up for a sunny afternoon by the pool or a laid-back backyard happy hour. The best part? Everything goes into the blender and your cocktail is ready in minutes—no shaking, stirring, or fussing required.
There’s something about that creamy pineapple flavor mixed with a touch of lime and the fragrant hit of basil that instantly says “vacation.” It’s a fun twist on the classic piña colada that feels a little lighter and more garden-fresh. If you love cocktails with fresh herbs and summer produce, this one checks every box.
Why You’ll Love This Basil Piña Colada
Whether you’re planning a summer party or just want something fun and frosty to sip on a hot day, this cocktail delivers flavor, simplicity, and style. Everything is made in a blender and this recipe can easily be doubled, tripled, etc. for a crowd!
What You’ll Need to Make a Basil Piña Colada
For one serving:
- 1/2 cup fresh or frozen pineapple
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 1 oz light rum
- 1 oz dark rum
- 5 fresh basil leaves
Optional: Ice for extra thickness and a lime zest + salt rim for added flavor
How To Make It
This cocktail couldn’t be easier. Simply add all your ingredients to a blender and blend on high until smooth. If you prefer your piña coladas on the thicker, frostier side, feel free to toss in 1/4 to 1/2 cup of ice and blend again until you reach your desired consistency.
Even though it’s not traditional, I love finishing mine with a salt and lime zest rim—it adds a little tang and an extra layer of flavor that balances beautifully with the sweetness of the pineapple and rum.
Pro Tip: This cocktail works equally well with frozen pineapple for a thicker, slushier texture, or fresh pineapple if you’re looking for something a little juicier and more pourable. If you want to batch it for a party, simply multiply the recipe by how many servings you want and blend in batches!
Shop the Bar Cart
If you’re stocking up for summer cocktail season, here are a few essentials that’ll make your next happy hour even better:
- A high-powered blender for perfect frozen cocktails
- A good-quality light and dark rum (you don’t have to splurge, just avoid the bottom shelf)
- Citrus juicer for easy lime squeezing
More Rum Cocktails to Try This Summer
If you’re a fan of this Basil Piña Colada, be sure to check out these other refreshing summer cocktails that bring the tropical vibes:
- Shaken Piña Colada – A lighter, cream-free take on the classic
- Basil Mojito – A twist on the Cuban classic, made for basil lovers
Another idea is to take your favorite Paloma and switch out the tequila for rum! A simple yet fun way to shake things up (literally)!
Let’s Sip to Summer!
If you make this Basil Piña Colada, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram so I can see your sunny sips! Whether you’re blending it up for a weekend barbecue or winding down on a Tuesday evening, this cocktail brings the vacation energy every single time.
Cheers Y’all,
