The Chi Chi Cocktail is a tropical vodka-based drink that’s cool, creamy, and easy to enjoy. Made with vodka, pineapple juice, and cream of coconut, it’s a simple mix that tastes like a beach vacation in a glass. It’s similar to a Piña Colada, but swaps out rum for vodka, giving it a cleaner and slightly sharper flavor. The cream of coconut adds richness, while the pineapple keeps things bright and fresh. Whether you’re relaxing outside or just want something chill and fruity, the Chi Chi is a smooth, crowd-pleasing choice that’s quick to blend and even easier to drink.
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Tasting Notes
The Chi Chi Cocktail is smooth, creamy, and tropical with just the right amount of sweetness. You’ll taste fresh pineapple right away, followed by a mellow coconut flavor that rounds it out. The vodka keeps things clean without overpowering the other ingredients. Blending it with crushed ice gives the drink a frozen texture that’s refreshing and easy to sip. It’s similar to a Piña Colada but made with vodka instead of rum. The cherry and pineapple garnish make it feel extra festive. It’s cool, fruity, and not too strong great for warm days or easygoing evenings.
Equipment and Glassware
To make this drink, you’ll need a blender, jigger, and a knife for the garnishes. A small cutting board helps prep the pineapple. A hurricane glass is the go-to choice it shows off the color and shape of the drink nicely. You can use a highball glass if you don’t have one. A straw makes sipping smoother, especially with the crushed ice texture. No shaker, strainer, or fancy tools needed. Just blend, pour, and enjoy.
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz vodka
- 2 oz pineapple juice
- 1 oz cream of coconut
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- 1/2 cup crushed ice
- Pineapple wedge, for garnish
- Cherry, for garnish
Instructions
- Add vodka, pineapple juice, cream of coconut, simple syrup, and crushed ice to a blender.
- Blend until smooth and frothy for about 10–15 seconds.
- Pour into a hurricane or tall glass.
- Garnish with a pineapple wedge and a cherry.
Pro Tips
- Use chilled ingredients so the ice doesn’t melt too fast.
- If cream of coconut is thick, stir or shake before using.
- Fresh pineapple juice gives a stronger fruit flavor.
- Add more crushed ice if you like it thicker.
- Use canned coconut cream (not coconut milk) for the right texture.
- Skip the syrup if using sweetened pineapple juice.
- For a pop of color, use a cocktail umbrella.
- Don’t over-blend it’ll get too watery.
When to Serve
Chi Chi Cocktail are perfect for hot weather, laid-back weekends, or beach-themed parties. They’re a hit at poolside hangouts, summer BBQs, or any get-together where you want something cool and easy to drink. Since they’re not too boozy, you can serve them earlier in the day or as a relaxing drink in the evening. It’s also a good choice for guests who don’t love strong liquor flavors but still want something with a bit of fun.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
Vodka:
- Tito’s (smooth and clean)
- Absolut (good quality, reasonable price)
- Smirnoff (budget-friendly and neutral)
Cream of Coconut:
- Coco Lopez (rich and classic)
- Real Gourmet Cream of Coconut (easy to squeeze)
Pineapple Juice:
- Dole (easy to find and consistent)
- Lakewood Organic Pineapple (great fresh taste)
Similar Cocktails
- Coconut Vodka Lime Crush
- Cranberry Pineapple Sangria
- Blue Hawaiian Long Island
- Pineapple Vodka Sour
- Flirtini
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz vodka
- 2 oz pineapple juice
- 1 oz cream of coconut
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- 1/2 cup crushed ice
- Pineapple wedge for garnish
- Cherry for garnish
Instructions
- Add vodka, pineapple juice, cream of coconut, simple syrup, and crushed ice to a blender.
- Blend until smooth and frothy for about 10–15 seconds.
- Pour into a hurricane or tall glass.
- Garnish with a pineapple wedge and a cherry.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use cream of coconut (like Coco López), not coconut milk, for the right texture and flavor.
- Want it thicker? Add more ice. Want it lighter? Blend with less.
- Chill your glass ahead of time to keep it frosty longer.