Jenna Haley
The Santa’s Beach Hat is a tropical holiday cocktail that brings island vibes to the winter season. Creamy, fruity, and fun, this drink blends Malibu rum, pineapple juice, and cream of coconut with a swirl of strawberry purée and a splash of lime juice for balance. The result is a smooth, refreshing cocktail that tastes like a vacation in a glass just with a festive twist. Finished with a coconut-rimmed glass and an adorable strawberry-and-marshmallow Santa hat garnish, it’s perfect for holiday parties, beach get-togethers, or anyone dreaming of Christmas in the tropics.
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Tasting Notes
Santa’s Beach Hat is a tropical holiday treat that brings together creamy coconut, sweet strawberry, and bright citrus in every sip. Malibu rum and pineapple juice provide a lush island base, while cream of coconut adds richness and a silky texture. The strawberry purée gives a burst of sweetness and color, balanced perfectly by fresh lime juice. The result is a cocktail that’s fruity, smooth, and refreshing like a vacation wrapped in holiday spirit. The coconut-rimmed glass and Santa hat garnish make it as fun to look at as it is to drink, blending beach vibes with Christmas cheer.
Equipment and Glassware
To make Santa’s Beach Hat, gather a few bar basics and a touch of creativity. You’ll need a cocktail shaker to chill and blend the ingredients evenly. A jigger helps measure each component precisely for balanced flavor. Use a rocks glass or stemless hurricane glass to showcase the layered look and creamy color. Have a bar spoon for stirring and a small plate for holding honey (or agave) and shredded coconut to rim the glass. For the festive garnish, keep cocktail picks, a small knife, and mini marshmallows on hand to assemble the adorable Santa hat.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Malibu Rum
- 2 oz Pineapple juice
- 1 oz cream of coconut
- 1 oz strawberry puree
- 1 oz lime juice
- coconut for rim
- strawberry for garnish
- marshmallow for garnish
Santa Hat Garnish:
- Cut the green leaves off of the strawberry. Place a mini marshmallow on a cocktail pick, the add the strawberry with the flat part facing down. Next cut a marshmallow in half and place on the bottom of the strawberry.
Cocktail Instructions
- Add your Maliu, pineapple juice, cream of coconut, strawberry puree, and lime juice to a shaker. Add ice and shake
- Rim your glass with honey or agave and place in coconut shavings
- Add fresh icde to the glass and strain your cocktail over the ice
- Garnish with your santa hat and enjoy your Santa’s Beach Hat cocktail!
Pro Tips
- Use chilled pineapple juice and coconut cream for the smoothest texture.
- Rim your glass right before pouring to keep the coconut crisp.
- Add a small splash of soda water for a lighter version.
- Use a blender with crushed ice for a frozen-style variation.
- Substitute coconut rum with vanilla rum for a sweeter twist.
- Choose ripe strawberries for a naturally vibrant color.
- Keep extra Santa hat garnishes ready they make great party conversation pieces.
- Serve immediately while cold for the best creamy consistency.
When to Serve
Santa’s Beach Hat is perfect for holiday gatherings with a tropical twist. It’s ideal for Christmas pool parties, beach-themed celebrations, or any festive night when you want a touch of sunshine. The bright fruit flavors and creamy texture make it a great dessert cocktail or mid-afternoon sipper. It pairs well with light appetizers, fruit platters, or coconut-based desserts. Whether you’re celebrating by the ocean or staying warm indoors, this cocktail brings the beach to your holiday festivities with its colorful look and playful presentation.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
Rum
- Malibu Original Coconut Rum
- Bacardi Coconut
- Don Q Coco
- Captain Morgan Coconut Rum
- Parrot Bay Coconut Rum
Cream of Coconut
- Coco Lopez
- Coco Real
- Goya
- Lopez Island Cream of Coconut
Similar Cocktails
Ingredients
- 2 oz Malibu Rum
- 2 oz Pineapple juice
- 1 oz cream of coconut
- 1 oz strawberry puree
- 1 oz lime juice
- coconut for rim
- strawberry for garnish
- marshmallow for garnish
Instructions
Santa Hat Garnish:
- Cut the green leaves off of the strawberry. Place a mini marshmallow on a cocktail pick, the add the strawberry with the flat part facing down. Next cut a marshmallow in half and place on the bottom of the strawberry.
Cocktail Instructions:
- Add your Maliu, pineapple juice, cream of coconut, strawberry puree, and lime juice to a shaker. Add ice and shake
- Rim your glass with honey or agave and place in coconut shavings
- Add fresh icde to the glass and strain your cocktail over the ice
- Garnish with your santa hat and enjoy your Santa’s Beach Hat cocktail!
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use chilled pineapple juice and cream of coconut for a smoother texture.
- If you want a frothy finish, shake the ingredients longer or blend the cocktail with crushed ice.
- For an extra festive touch, sprinkle coconut flakes over the top to mimic snow.
