History & Heritage
“The Mango Colada is a modern, organic evolution of the Piña Colada. While it has no single inventor, it likely emerged in tropical resorts in the latter half of the 20th century as bartenders began experimenting with the classic's rum, coconut, and fruit template. The addition of mango, a beloved tropical fruit, was a natural and delicious progression.”
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
2 oz
1.5 oz
1.5 oz
1 oz
0.5 oz
0.3 oz
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
Chill a Poco Grande or Hurricane glass.
In a high-powered blender, combine the light or gold rum, mango purée, cream of coconut, pineapple juice, and lime juice.
Add 1 cup of crushed ice and blend on high speed until smooth.
Pour the blended contents into your pre-chilled glass.
Gently pour the dark or spiced rum over the back of a spoon onto the surface of the drink to create a floater (optional).
Garnish with a fresh mango spear and a pineapple frond.
Glassware
Served in a Poco Grande or Hurricane glass
Garnish
Mango spear and pineapple frond
A fresh, ripe mango spear or fan and a large, vibrant pineapple frond
Master's Tips
Professional insights to elevate your craft
Fresh lime juice is the secret weapon, cutting through the sweetness of the fruit and coconut cream to create a balanced cocktail.
Use frozen mango chunks if fresh purée is not possible to ensure a thick, frosty consistency with less dilution.
A high-quality, multi-island blend of light or gold rum provides a complex base without overpowering the fruit.
Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Mango Colada.
Other Variations
Mango Daiquiri
A lighter, less rich cocktail made with mango, rum, lime juice, and simple syrup, served shaken and strained 'up' rather than blended.
Changes
Lava Flow (Mango Variation)
A visually striking drink where a Strawberry Colada (or purée) is poured into the glass first, and a Mango Colada is layered on top.
Changes
More to Explore
If you enjoyed this cocktail, these similar creations might capture your interest.
Lighter Colada
A modern reimagining of the classic Piña Colada, prioritizing fresh ingredients, balanced flavors, and lower caloric content without sacrificing the transportive, tropical essence.
Piña Colada
Blended white rum, coconut cream, and pineapple juice create a creamy island escape in a glass.
Strawberry Colada
A vibrant, fruit-forward variation of the iconic Piña Colada, blending tropical rum, coconut, and pineapple with fresh strawberries for a creamy, refreshing drink with beautiful pink hue.