Cowboy Colada

The Cowboy Colada blends the boldness of whiskey with tropical pineapple and creamy coconut. Smooth, rich, and served frozen, it’s a refreshing twist that trades rum for a deeper, barrel-aged base. Think of it as a beach drink with a country kick.

---

Tasting Notes

The Cowboy Colada is a tropical-meets-frontier drink that blends creamy fruit with a whiskey backbone. Pineapple juice brings brightness and a touch of tartness, while coconut cream gives the drink a smooth, rich texture. Whiskey adds warmth and depth, creating a contrast that sets this drink apart from traditional rum-based coladas. The finish is slightly smoky and rounded by the creamy body of the drink. Each sip is cool, fruit-forward, and lightly sweet, followed by a gentle kick from the whiskey. It’s a laid-back, refreshing cocktail with a bit of edge.

Equipment and Glassware

To prepare the Cowboy Colada, you’ll need a blender, jigger, and a knife for preparing garnish. This cocktail is best served in a hurricane glass, but a large rocks or tiki glass will also work well. Since the drink is blended, there’s no need for a shaker or strainer. For the garnish, use a cocktail pick to hold the pineapple slice and cherry, or simply rest them on top of the drink. A wide straw is optional but helpful for sipping a thicker texture. Chill your glass beforehand for best results.

Ingredients

• 2 oz whiskey
• 2 oz pineapple juice
• 0.5 oz coconut cream
• Pineapple slice and cherry, for garnish
• 1 cup ice

Instructions

• Add whiskey, pineapple juice, coconut cream, and ice to a blender.
• Blend until smooth and creamy.
• Pour into a rocks glass.
• Garnish with a pineapple slice and cherry.

Pro Tips

• Use a high-proof or spicy whiskey if you want more character
• Chill the glass in advance to keep the drink colder longer
• Add more or less ice depending on your preferred thickness
• Full-fat coconut cream will blend better than low-fat or diluted versions
• Fresh pineapple juice enhances the drink’s natural brightness
• Use a frozen pineapple chunk in place of ice for a fruitier result
• Blend briefly to avoid over-dilution
• Garnish just before serving to keep the fruit looking fresh

When to Serve

The Cowboy Colada fits best into casual, warm-weather settings, think backyard barbecues, lake days, camping trips, or poolside hangouts. It’s ideal for guests who want something fruity but don’t typically reach for tropical cocktails. With its whiskey base, this drink stands out among frozen options, appealing to fans of bourbon or Tennessee whiskey who want something chilled but still bold. It’s also a fun signature drink for themed gatherings that blend country flair with beach vibes. Serve it any time you want a break from routine without straying too far from familiar flavors.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

• Whiskey: Buffalo Trace, Bulleit, Maker’s Mark
• Pineapple Juice: Dole, Lakewood Organic, fresh-pressed
• Coconut Cream: Coco Lopez, Real Gourmet Cream of Coconut, Thai Kitchen

Similar Cocktails

• Tropical Pineapple Paradise
• Frangelico Colada
• Chi Chi Cocktail
• Cherry Bomb Mimosa
• Mango Lava Flow