What is the difference between a Blue Hawaiian and a Blue Hawaii?
A Blue Hawaiian includes coconut, usually cream of coconut, for that creamy tropical vibe. A Blue Hawaii is usually more crisp than creamy and is commonly made with rum, vodka, pineapple juice, and blue curaçao, often with sweet-and-sour or lemon for extra zip. (Recipes vary, but the coconut is the big dividing line.)
What is cream of coconut, exactly?
Cream of coconut is sweetened and thick, like Coco Lopez or Coco Real. It is not the same as coconut cream (usually unsweetened, thicker) or coconut milk (thinner). If you swap in coconut milk, you will get a lighter drink, but you may want a little sweetener to keep the flavor from feeling flat.
Can I make it without alcohol?
Yes. Swap the rum for coconut water (tropical) or sparkling water (lighter). Replace the blue curaçao with blue curaçao syrup. If you only have food coloring, add a splash of orange juice or orange syrup (or a tiny drop of orange extract) so you still get that orange-lollipop vibe, not just blue vibes.
What rum works best?
White rum keeps it clean and classic. Coconut rum is fun but can push things sweet fast, so if you use it, consider reducing the cream of coconut a touch.
My drink separated. Did I mess up?
Nope. Cream of coconut separates like it is on a schedule. Shake the cream of coconut container well, and if you are shaking the drink, shake hard for 15 seconds. For blended, give it a quick re-blend.
Can I make it less sweet?
Absolutely. Add 1 to 2 teaspoons fresh lime juice, use 100% pineapple juice (not pineapple cocktail or pineapple nectar), and do not overdo the cream of coconut. You can also add a splash of cold water or extra ice to mellow it out.
Is a Blue Hawaiian a strong drink?
It can be. Between the rum and the blue curaçao, this is not a light spritz. It drinks easy because it tastes like a beach, so pace yourself accordingly.
