Most piña colada smoothies are too sweet. Coconut cream, fruit juice, sugar, more sugar. This one is more balanced, and way healthier. Frozen pineapple, half a frozen banana, a tablespoon of flaked coconut, plain Greek yogurt, and pineapple juice. No added sugar. The frozen fruit does the work of ice, the yogurt replaces cream, and the flaked coconut gives you coconut flavour without the heaviness of coconut cream.
I drink this after morning runs in summer when I want something cold and filling. The Greek yogurt makes it thick enough to eat with a spoon if you use less juice. More juice makes it drinkable, and adding some rum to it makes it dangerous. Your call!
How to Make Piña Colada Smoothie
Use Frozen Fruit, Not Ice
Frozen pineapple chunks and a frozen banana replace ice cubes. Ice dilutes the flavour. Frozen fruit keeps everything cold and thick while adding sweetness and body. 
Let the fruit sit for 2-3 minutes before blending if your blender struggles with fully frozen pieces. You want the blades to catch without straining the motor.
Adjust the Thickness
Start with 3/4 cup (177ml) of pineapple juice. Blend everything until smooth. If it is too thick to pour, add more juice a tablespoon at a time.
If you want it spoonable like an acai bowl, use less juice and add the frozen banana in larger chunks. The yogurt and frozen banana together create a thick base that holds its shape in a glass.
Cool Piña Colada Smoothie
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 1
- Diet: Omnivore, Gluten-Free
Description
Skip the cocktail! This creamy piña colada smoothie is a delicious and refreshing way to start your day. Made with Greek yogurt for a healthy twist.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cups (118 ml) frozen pineapple chunks
- 1/2 frozen banana
- 1 tbsp flaked coconut
- 2 tbsp plain greek yogurt
- 3/4 cups (177 ml) pineapple juice
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth.
- Add additional pineapple juice if needed to thin the mixture.
Notes
- For a thicker smoothie, use less pineapple juice or add a few ice cubes.
- Toasted coconut flakes add extra flavor and texture; toast them in a dry pan before adding.
- Substitute mango or peach for the pineapple for a different tropical flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 25
- Sodium: 50
- Fat: 10
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Unsaturated Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 50
- Fiber: 5
- Protein: 10
- Cholesterol: 10
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use coconut milk instead of pineapple juice?
You can, but it makes the smoothie much richer. The pineapple juice keeps it lighter. If you want more coconut flavour, add an extra tablespoon of flaked coconut instead.
Can I use regular yogurt?
Yes. Plain regular yogurt works but the smoothie will be thinner. Greek yogurt is thicker and higher in protein. Avoid flavoured yogurts, which add unnecessary sugar.
Can I make this the night before?
You can blend and refrigerate overnight. It thickens in the fridge. Stir or re-blend briefly before drinking. The colour may darken slightly, which is normal.
