When the weather heats up, nothing beats a refreshing drink to cool you down. This Strawberry Coconut Cooler is the ultimate summer drink, combining the sweet, juicy taste of fresh strawberries with the creamy, tropical flavors of coconut milk. It’s light, it’s refreshing, and it’s absolutely perfect for poolside sipping, beach days, or simply relaxing in your backyard. Plus, it’s easy to make and can even be adapted for those seeking a little extra zing with a splash of rum!
Why You’ll Love the Strawberry Coconut Cooler
There’s something magical about the combination of strawberries and coconut. The sweet and tangy flavor of strawberries blends so beautifully with the smooth, creamy coconut milk, creating a drink that’s both vibrant and indulgent. And while it’s refreshing and delicious on its own, this cooler can also be elevated for an evening treat by adding a splash of your favorite tropical spirit.
This recipe is ideal for those who want a non-alcoholic option that’s still fun and festive. However, if you’re planning a summer gathering or looking for a vacation-worthy cocktail, the Strawberry Coconut Cooler can easily be transformed into a light cocktail. Either way, this drink will instantly make you feel like you’re on a tropical escape!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this refreshing cooler:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced (can also use frozen if fresh strawberries aren’t in season)
- 1 cup coconut milk (for an extra creamy version, use canned coconut milk; for a lighter option, try refrigerated coconut milk)
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup (adjust based on your preferred sweetness level)
- 1/2 cup sparkling water or club soda, chilled
- Ice cubes for serving
- Fresh mint leaves and extra strawberry slices for garnish
Optional (for a Boozy Twist)
- 1 oz white rum or coconut rum per serving
Directions
1. Prepare the Strawberries
Start by washing and hulling the strawberries, then slice them into smaller pieces for easier blending. If you’re using frozen strawberries, let them thaw for a few minutes, which will make blending easier and help you achieve a smoother texture.
2. Blend with Coconut Milk
In a blender, combine the strawberries, coconut milk, and honey (or agave). Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, with no visible chunks of strawberry remaining. If you prefer your drink a little thinner, you can add a splash more coconut milk or water until you reach your desired consistency.
3. Add the Fizz
Pour the strawberry and coconut mixture into a large pitcher or directly into glasses if serving immediately. Slowly add the chilled sparkling water or club soda, stirring gently to combine. This will add a light fizz to your cooler, giving it a refreshing lift.
4. Serve and Garnish
Fill each glass with ice, then pour the Strawberry Coconut Cooler over the ice. Garnish with a few fresh mint leaves and an extra slice or two of strawberry on the side of the glass. For a final tropical touch, you can even add a tiny umbrella or a wedge of pineapple.
Tips for the Perfect Strawberry Coconut Cooler
Adjust the Sweetness: Strawberries can vary in sweetness depending on the season, so taste your mixture before adding extra sweetener. If your strawberries are naturally sweet, you may find you need less honey or agave.
Make it Creamy or Light: If you prefer a richer drink, opt for canned coconut milk, which has a thicker, creamier texture. For a lighter version, go with refrigerated coconut milk or even coconut water.
Chill Your Ingredients: To make this cooler extra refreshing, try to chill all your ingredients ahead of time. This means popping your coconut milk in the fridge and making sure your strawberries and sparkling water are well-chilled.
Add Ice for Extra Chill: If you want your drink icy cold, add a handful of ice cubes to the blender along with the other ingredients. This will create a slushy texture that’s perfect for hot days.
Variations to Try
1. Berry Coconut Cooler
Switch things up by adding other berries along with the strawberries. Blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries all pair well with coconut, adding a slightly tart note that balances out the sweetness.
2. Pineapple Strawberry Coconut Cooler
For a tropical twist, add a few chunks of fresh or frozen pineapple to the blender. This will give your drink an extra burst of tropical flavor, making it feel even more like a beachside treat.
3. Mango Strawberry Coconut Cooler
Mango adds natural sweetness and a creamy texture. Just a half cup of fresh or frozen mango blended with the strawberries and coconut milk will make this drink even more luscious.
4. Make It a Cocktail
As mentioned, you can turn this cooler into a cocktail by adding an ounce of white or coconut rum to each glass. The rum enhances the tropical flavors and adds a subtle warmth that’s perfect for evening sipping.
Perfect Pairings for the Strawberry Coconut Cooler
This drink pairs wonderfully with light, summery snacks like fresh fruit platters, tropical salsa with chips, or even shrimp skewers with a zesty lime dip. Here are a few pairing ideas:
- Tropical Fruit Platter: Pineapple, mango, kiwi, and coconut pieces all complement the flavors of the Strawberry Coconut Cooler.
- Shrimp Tacos: The sweetness of the drink balances beautifully with the spiciness of tacos, especially if topped with a mango salsa.
- Caprese Skewers: Mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil on a skewer provide a refreshing contrast to the tropical flavors.
Serving Ideas and Presentation Tips
The presentation is everything when it comes to summer drinks! For an extra pop of color, consider serving your cooler in tall, clear glasses to showcase the beautiful pink hue. Adding garnishes like strawberry slices, mint sprigs, or even edible flowers will make each glass look as delicious as it tastes.
If you’re serving this drink for a party, consider setting up a “cooler station” with a few different fruit and garnish options. Guests can mix and match toppings like berries, citrus slices, or small paper umbrellas for a fun, interactive experience.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, hanging out by the pool, or simply looking for a refreshing way to beat the heat, this Strawberry Coconut Cooler is sure to be a hit. It’s light yet flavorful, sweet without being overly sugary, and versatile enough to serve as a mocktail or cocktail.
Plus, with simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create this cooler in no time, giving you more time to relax and enjoy the summer vibes. So, grab your blender, stock up on strawberries and coconut milk, and treat yourself to a refreshing, tropical drink you’ll want to make again and again.
Print
Strawberry Coconut Cooler
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Strawberry Coconut Cooler is a refreshing and tropical drink perfect for hot days. Made with fresh strawberries, creamy coconut milk, and a hint of lime, this drink is a blend of sweetness and tanginess. It’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect summer thirst-quencher.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup coconut milk (full-fat or light, based on preference)
- 1/2 cup coconut water (or plain water)
- 1–2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- Juice of 1 lime
- Ice cubes, as needed
- Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a blender, combine the strawberries, coconut milk, coconut water, honey or maple syrup, and lime juice.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Taste and adjust sweetness if needed by adding more honey or syrup.
- Fill glasses with ice cubes, then pour the Strawberry Coconut Cooler over the ice.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired, and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- For an extra coconut flavor, add 1 tablespoon of shredded coconut before blending.
- This cooler is best served fresh, but you can refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Stir before serving if chilled.
- Substitute agave syrup for honey to make it vegan.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g