Made with fresh strawberries, coconut rum, a splash of Coco Real, and a touch of soda water, this strawberries and cream cocktail is creamy, refreshing, and the perfect summer sipper. Sweet, lightly fizzy, and simple to make, it’s ideal for afternoons by the lake, a casual get-together, or whenever you want a fruity, easy cocktail.
If you enjoy coconut-flavored rum, this drink is made for you. The combination of Malibu (or another coconut rum), Coco Real (a sweetened coconut beverage or syrup), and ripe strawberries creates a soft, creamy texture and tropical aroma. It leans sweet and fruity, so if you prefer drier cocktails, adjust the Coco Real or replace soda water with plain sparkling water to cut sweetness.
Only 4 Ingredients Needed
- Strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries give the best flavor. If strawberries are in season, they make this cocktail especially bright and sweet. Frozen strawberries can be used in a pinch.
- Coco Real: A sweetened coconut juice/syrup that adds creamy coconut flavor. A little goes a long way to build that strawberries-and-cream profile.
- Malibu rum: Coconut-flavored rum pairs beautifully with the Coco Real and the berries. Substitute with another light or coconut rum if needed.
- Plain soda water: Added at the end for a gentle fizz; plain sparkling water works just as well and helps balance sweetness.
- Optional toppings: Whipped cream, extra sliced strawberries, or a few sprinkles for a playful touch.
Strawberries and Cream Cocktail Recipe
This quick recipe makes one serving and comes together in about five minutes. It’s creamy without heavy dairy and keeps a bright strawberry flavor thanks to fresh berries and just enough soda to lift the drink.
Ingredients
- 4–5 large fresh strawberries
- 1 tablespoon Coco Real
- 1.5 oz (about one standard jigger) Malibu rum or another coconut rum
- 1/4 – 1/2 cup plain soda water or sparkling water
- Ice
- Optional: whipped cream and extra strawberry for garnish
Instructions
- Place the strawberries and Coco Real into a blender and blend until completely smooth.
- Pour the strawberry mixture into a glass, then add the Malibu rum. Stir or whisk gently to combine.
- Add ice to the glass, top with soda water to your taste, and stir once more. Garnish with a fresh strawberry and a dollop of whipped cream if desired.
Tips & Notes
- Frozen strawberries work well if fresh aren’t available. If using frozen, you may need slightly less ice.
- Use Coco Real syrup specifically for best texture. Canned coconut milk will tend to separate or solidify when mixed with ice, which affects texture and appearance.
- Serve immediately. The coconut elements and blended color may start to separate if the drink sits too long, which doesn’t affect taste much but can look less appealing.
- To reduce sweetness, lessen the Coco Real or increase the soda water. For a creamier, milkshake-like version, add a splash of half-and-half or a scoop of vanilla ice cream (note: this changes the texture and richness significantly).
Serving Suggestions and Variations
This cocktail is perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or a relaxed afternoon by the water. Try these simple variations:
- Strawberry Daiquiri twist: blend the strawberries with ice and rum, skip the Coco Real, and add a squeeze of lime for a tarter, more traditional daiquiri profile.
- Frosé-style: blend larger quantities and freeze in an airtight container for a slushy, shareable version you can scoop into glasses.
- Non-alcoholic: omit the rum and replace with a splash of coconut water or coconut-flavored syrup for a mocktail version.
Enjoy!
Whether you call it a strawberries and cream cocktail, a summer treat, or just your next favorite sweet drink, this recipe is charmingly simple and delicious. Make a batch for friends, keep the ratio handy for single servings, and adjust sweetness and fizz until it fits your perfect summer drink profile. Cheers!