Paul Kushner
Vibrant, fruity, and irresistibly creamy, the Tropical Rainbow Colada is a dazzling cocktail that brings a burst of tropical flavors to every sip. This layered beauty starts with a smooth piña colada base, divided and infused with sweet strawberry liqueur, tropical crème de banana, and refreshing melon liqueur. The result? A stunning, rainbow-hued cocktail that’s as fun to make as it is to drink. Topped with a fresh strawberry, this eye-catching delight is perfect for summer parties, beachside lounging, or anytime you want a taste of paradise in a glass!
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Tasting Notes
This Tropical Rainbow Colada offers a smooth, creamy base from the piña colada mix, complemented by the sweet and fruity notes of strawberry, banana, and melon liqueurs. The combination creates a delightful medley of tropical flavors that are perfect for sipping on a warm day.
Equipment and Glassware
You’ll need a blender to achieve the smooth, slushy consistency, three small mixing glasses to color the layers separately, and a tall hurricane or piña colada glass to showcase the rainbow effect. A bar spoon helps with careful layering, and a jigger ensures precise measurements.
Ingredients
- 1 oz light rum
- 1 oz piña colada mix
- 1 oz strawberry liqueur
- 1 oz crème de banana
- 1 oz melon liqueur
- Strawberry for garnish
Instructions
- In a blender, add ice, light rum, and piña colada mix.
- Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Divide the blended mixture evenly into three small glasses.
- In the first glass, stir in the strawberry liqueur. In the second, mix in the crème de banana. In the third, add the melon liqueur.
- Layer the mixtures one at a time into your serving glass, creating colorful layers.
- Garnish with a fresh strawberry and enjoy your Tropical Rainbow Colada!
Pro Tips
- For extra layering precision, chill each colored layer for a few minutes before pouring.
- Use a bar spoon or pour over the back of a spoon to help maintain the layers.
- Try frozen fruit instead of ice for a richer, creamier texture.
- For a boozier kick, add an extra ½ oz of rum.
- If blending in batches, rinse the blender between colors to keep layers vibrant.
When to Serve
The Tropical Rainbow Colada is perfect for summer pool parties, tropical-themed events, or anytime you want a colorful, festive cocktail. It’s great for impressing guests with its stunning layers and creamy, fruity flavor.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
For the best flavor, use a smooth light rum such as:
- Bacardi Superior
- Don Q Cristal
- Cruzan Light Rum
For the fruit liqueurs, DeKuyper, Giffard, or Bols offer great options for strawberry, banana, and melon liqueurs.
Similar Cocktails
If you enjoy Tropical Rainbow Colada, here are five similar cocktails to try:
- Strawberry Avenue
- Philly Trashcan
- Bleed Green Lemonade
- Strawberry Moscato Float
- Blue Raspberry Vodka Lemonade
Equipment
- Bar Spoon optional
Ingredients
- 1 oz light rum
- 1 oz piña colada mix
- 1 oz strawberry liqueur
- 1 oz crème de banana
- 1 oz melon liqueur
- Strawberry for garnish
Instructions
- In a blender, add ice, light rum, and piña colada mix.
- Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Divide the blended mixture evenly into three small glasses.
- In the first glass, stir in the strawberry liqueur. In the second, mix in the crème de banana. In the third, add the melon liqueur.
- Layer the mixtures one at a time into your serving glass, creating colorful layers.
- Garnish with a fresh strawberry and enjoy your Tropical Rainbow Colada!
Notes
- To achieve clean layers, pour each layer slowly over the back of a spoon.
- Garnish with a slice of banana or a small umbrella for a festive touch.
