Hands down, when we are in a party mood, this is the only drink we're having!

Back in the day, hospitality meant offering a sweet, icy drink on a hot afternoon to anyone who happened down your gravel driveway — and today ain't much different. There's one drink that takes me back to those sultry summer evenings, spent rockin' away on the front porch, deep in stories and sips: the Pina Colada. Originating from the sun-soaked shores of Puerto Rico, this tropical concoction has made its way into the hearts of folks all around the world. It’s a combination of rich coconut, tangy pineapple, and smooth rum — a blend that can whisk you away to a dreamy beach with every frothy sip. Imagine whirring that blender while the fireflies dance and the corn whispers in the breeze out back. Making a Pina Colada ain’t just about beating the heat; it’s about creating sweet memories worth savoring.

Now, when pairing this delightful concoction, you want to keep things light and breezy. A platter of finger foods – maybe some coconut shrimp or pineapple cheese bites – pairs perfectly. And when the sun's on its way down, a slice of angel food cake or a scoop of homemade pineapple ice cream rounds off the evening just right.

Servings: Makes about 4 generous servings

Ingredients:

- 1 cup of light rum
- 2 cups of frozen pineapple chunks
- 1/2 cup of coconut cream
- 1/4 cup of pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup of ice
- Pineapple slices and maraschino cherries for garnish

Directions:

1. Take your trusty blender and pour in the light rum and pineapple juice.

2. Next, scoop in your frozen pineapple chunks and that smooth coconut cream.

3. Add the ice – not too much now, you don’t want to water it down.

4. Cover the blender and blend on high until it’s all smooth and creamy. If it gives you sass and the ice don't crush right away, just stop, give it a stir, and blend again.

5. Pour your Pina Coladas into chilled glasses. Get them frosty before you start; it makes all the difference.

6. Finally, garnish each glass with a wedge of pineapple and a cherry perched on top — the crowning jewels of your delicious creation.

Variations & Tips:

Fancy a non-alcoholic version for the grandbabies or your temperance friends? Leave out the rum and add an extra splash of pineapple juice. It’ll be just as tropical and refreshing. If you've got dietary concerns, swap out that coconut cream for coconut milk — it's lighter but still keeps that coconutty goodness.

For a twist, muddle in some fresh mint leaves or a bit of ginger for a little extra zing. And if the good Lord blessed you with a bounty of fresh pineapple, use it in place of the frozen. Just remember to freeze it first for that slushy texture.

And remember, darlin's, the secret to a good Pina Colada, like most things in life, is good proportions and a lot of love. Cheers to sweet moments and sippin' in good company!