French Colada
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French Colada
Cocktail recipe

Rating

4.3 / 5
The French Colada is a luxurious twist on the classic tropical Pina Colada, blending the traditional Caribbean charm with a touch of French elegance. This cocktail combines the sweet tanginess of pineapple juice with the richness of white rum, balanced by the creamy textures of both cream and coconut cream. To deepen its complexity, a dash of creme de cassis adds a berrylike sweetness, while a measure of cognac introduces a refined oaky undertone. Though not as well-known as its tropical cousin, the French Colada is served in a chic cocktail glass, perfect for those seeking a sophisticated yet indulgent beverage experience with a harmonious blend of fruit, sweetness, and warmth.
Check out all our FAQ's on this cocktail

Microbadges

Cocktail Of The Day
Base ingredient
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White rum
Calories
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240 calories
Garnish
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Pineapple
Alcohol content
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16.54% | 2.15 units *
cocktail colin avatar

Cocktail Colin says:

4/5

The French Colada masterfully balances indulgence with sophistication, marrying the vibrant zest of pineapple juice with the creamy embrace of both cream and coconut cream. A delightful intrigue arises from the dash of creme de cassis, introducing a berrylike sweetness that elegantly harmonizes with the warm, toasted notes of cognac, transforming this concoction into a rich, nuanced sip.

Method
How to make a French Colada

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice
Shake well for 10-15 seconds or until the outside of the shaker becomes frosted
Strain into a chilled cocktail glass
Garnish with a pineapple chunk and serve

Power tips
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Rather than using regular cream, opt for a high-fat, high-quality cream or even Crème fraîche to elevate the cocktail's richness and smoothness.
Use freshly made coconut cream; the fresh version enhances the tropical essence more than the canned version.
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Learn more about some of the mixology terms used in this cocktail

·  Shake  ·  Strain  ·  Garnish  · 

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Comments

Paul Lockman avatar

Didn't have creme de cassis, so I subbed with grape juice. Turned out pretty tasty! Mix was smooth and had a nice balance. I'll definitely make it again.

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FAQ's

Occasion suitability icon

What is the ideal occasion for enjoying a French Colada?

The French Colada, with its rich blend of pineapple juice, coconut cream, and a touch of sophistication from Creme De Cassis and Cognac, is ideal for tropical-themed parties, summer gatherings, or as a luxurious treat during a relaxing evening. Its unique flavors also make it a great conversation starter at cocktail parties.

Non alcoholic variations icon

Can I make a non-alcoholic version of the French Colada?

Yes, you can create a non-alcoholic version of the French Colada by omitting the white rum, Creme De Cassis, and Cognac, and substituting with non-alcoholic alternatives like seedlip or additional pineapple and coconut cream to maintain the tropical flavor profile. This makes it enjoyable for all ages and those preferring non-alcoholic beverages.

Faq icon

What makes the French Colada different from a traditional Pina Colada?

The French Colada distinguishes itself from a traditional Pina Colada with the addition of Creme De Cassis and Cognac, offering a deeper, more complex flavor profile. While both drinks share a tropical vibe with pineapple and coconut cream, the French Colada incorporates a unique French twist that elevates the cocktail experience.

Garnishing tips icon

What garnishes work well with a French Colada?

A French Colada can be beautifully garnished with a piece of pineapple, a maraschino cherry, or a sprig of mint for a touch of freshness. These garnishes not only enhance the visual appeal but also complement the tropical and rich flavors of the cocktail.

Alcohol content comparison icon

How can I adjust the alcohol content in a French Colada to make it stronger or lighter?

To adjust the alcohol content in a French Colada, you can modify the quantities of the alcoholic ingredients. For a stronger cocktail, slightly increase the amounts of white rum and Cognac. For a lighter version, reduce the same ingredients, or substitute a portion of them with additional pineapple juice or coconut cream to keep the volume constant while adjusting the strength to your preference.

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