A smooth and creamy tropical cocktail that blends pineapple, coconut, banana, and strawberries into a stunning layered drink. The bright red strawberry swirl cascading through the pale tropical base creates a dramatic “lava flow” effect that feels festive, refreshing, and perfect for warm-weather moments.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This drink is as beautiful as it is delicious. It combines classic island flavors with a fun presentation that looks impressive but is surprisingly easy to make. The balance of creamy coconut, sweet fruit, and icy texture makes it refreshing without being heavy. Whether you are hosting a summer gathering or simply treating yourself, this recipe delivers a vacation-like experience in minutes.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 oz white rum
1 oz coconut-flavored rum
2 oz pineapple juice
2 oz coconut cream
2 oz strawberries, fresh or frozen
1 ripe banana
1 to 1½ cups ice, as needed
Directions
Add the strawberries to a blender with 1 to 2 tablespoons of pineapple juice or water. Blend until completely smooth, then set the strawberry puree aside.
Rinse the blender to keep the layers clean. Add the white rum, coconut-flavored rum, pineapple juice, coconut cream, banana, and ice. Blend until thick, smooth, and creamy.
Pour the banana and pineapple mixture into a tall glass. Slowly drizzle the strawberry puree down the inside of the glass, allowing it to sink and create a natural lava-like swirl through the drink.
Serve immediately while cold and creamy.
Servings and timing
Servings: 1 large cocktail
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Total time: 5 minutes
Variations
For a frozen, thicker texture, use frozen strawberries and a frozen banana and reduce the ice slightly.
To make a non-alcoholic version, omit the rums and replace them with an additional 2 oz of pineapple juice or coconut water.
For extra tropical sweetness, add ½ oz mango puree to the banana mixture.
If you prefer a tangier flavor, add a small squeeze of fresh lime juice to the tropical base.
Storage/Reheating
This drink is best enjoyed immediately after blending. If needed, you can store it in a sealed container in the freezer for up to 1 hour. Stir or re-blend briefly before serving to restore the texture. Refrigeration is not recommended, as the ice will melt and dilute the flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this drink ahead of time?
It is best made fresh, but you can prepare the strawberry puree a few hours in advance and keep it chilled until ready to use.
What can I use instead of coconut cream?
You can substitute full-fat coconut milk, though the drink will be slightly less rich and creamy.
Can I use frozen fruit only?
Yes, frozen fruit works very well and creates a thicker, more slushy consistency.
How do I get a clear lava swirl?
Pour the strawberry puree slowly along the inside of the glass so it sinks naturally instead of mixing in.
Is this drink very sweet?
It is moderately sweet, but you can reduce sweetness by using unsweetened pineapple juice or adding a splash of citrus juice.
What glass works best for this recipe?
A tall hurricane or highball glass shows off the layered lava effect beautifully.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double all ingredients and blend in batches if needed to avoid overfilling the blender.
What fruit can replace bananas?
Mango or peach can be used, though the flavor and creaminess will change slightly.
Does the order of blending matter?
Yes, blending the strawberry layer separately is essential to achieve the lava flow look.
Can I add more ice?
You can add more ice for a thicker texture, but too much may dilute the flavors.
Conclusion
This Hawaiian Lava Flow cocktail is a perfect blend of tropical flavor and visual flair. With its creamy texture, vibrant fruit taste, and eye-catching swirl, it turns an ordinary moment into something special. Simple to prepare and endlessly customizable, it is a recipe you will come back to whenever you crave a taste of the tropics.
The Hawaiian Lava Flow is a creamy, tropical cocktail made with pineapple, coconut, banana, and strawberries, layered to create a beautiful red lava effect. It’s refreshing, flavorful, and perfect for summer vibes or a tropical escape.
Ingredients
1 oz white rum
1 oz coconut-flavored rum
2 oz pineapple juice
2 oz coconut cream
2 oz strawberries, fresh or frozen
1 ripe banana
1 to 1½ cups ice, as needed
Instructions
Add strawberries and 1–2 tablespoons pineapple juice or water to a blender. Blend until smooth and set aside.
Rinse blender. Add white rum, coconut rum, pineapple juice, coconut cream, banana, and ice. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Pour the tropical banana mixture into a tall glass.
Slowly drizzle the strawberry puree down the inside edge of the glass to create a lava swirl.
Serve immediately, cold and creamy.
Notes
Use frozen fruit for a thicker texture and colder drink.
For a non-alcoholic version, replace rums with pineapple juice or coconut water.
Add mango puree for extra sweetness or lime juice for a tangy twist.
Use a hurricane or highball glass to highlight the lava effect.
