Lava Flow Cocktail: Plus Mocktail Version for Kids

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Lava Flow Cocktail is a deliciously fruity frozen cocktail where pineapple, coconut, strawberry, and rum come together in flavor perfection. One sip will transport you to a tropical paradise!

Indulge your senses and get ready to be transported to a sun-kissed tropical paradise with a single sip of my mouthwatering Lava Flow Cocktail. This fruity concoction combines the luscious flavors of coconut, pineapple, and strawberries, with white rum and coconut rum, creating a symphony of taste that will leave you craving for more.

With its refreshing tropical flavors, vibrant colors, and eye-catching presentation, this slushy cocktail is not only a treat for your taste buds but it’s also a feast for your eyes.

In this article, I am sharing an in-depth guide that will surely help you master this tropical delight.

I also share a mocktail, aka non-alcoholic, version, too. It’s the perfect treat for kids on a warm day.

So are you ready to embark on a flavor-packed journey as I guide you through the preparation of this delectable cocktail and provide valuable tips to ensure your recipe stands out among the rest?

What is a Lava Flow Cocktail?

The Lava Flow cocktail has its roots in the Hawaiian Islands where it was first concocted as a way to capture the essence of the islands with their breathtaking beauty and mouthwatering flavors. Inspired by the vivid colors of flowing lava and the tropical fruits abundant in the region, the cocktail is popular and well-known for its unique and refreshing taste.

The cocktail’s name is further inspired by the “lava flow effect” you get when combining the red ingredients with the white. It’s cool to watch and kind of does remind me of molten lava flowing down the side of a volcano.

However, unlike molten lava which is some thousands of degrees, the lava flow cocktail is frosty cold and sure to cool you down on a hot summer day.

How to Make a Lava Flow Cocktail

Learn how to make this fruity cocktail concoction with the simple Lava Flow recipe below. You will find the complete list of ingredients and instructions in the free printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

This slushy Lava Flow cocktail is absolutely delicious. The mixture of pineapple, strawberry, and coconut is a flavor combination made in heaven. Add some rum, and it’s like a beach vacation in a glass.

Best of all, the Lava Flow cocktail is fairly easy to make. You’ll need a good blender and just a few ingredients.

I’ve also included the Lava Flow mocktail recipe for kids below so be sure to check that out, too!

Kitchen Tools Needed

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• blender
• cocktail picks – these are similar to the ones I had

Ingredients Needed to Make Lava Flow Cocktail

To create the perfect Lava Flow Cocktail, you’ll need an array of delicious ingredients that harmonize together to create a symphony of flavors.

• Strawberries – infuse the cocktail with a burst of sweetness and a hint of tartness, perfectly balancing the overall taste. You can use frozen or fresh.
• Cream of Coconut – gives the cocktail a rich and creamy texture. I used Coco Lopez Cream of Coconut which I found in the mixed drinks aisle at Walmart (although the cream of coconut is non-alcoholic).
• Pineapple juice – adds a tangy and tropical note.
• Coconut rum – adds a coconutty kick to the cocktail. I use Malibu, but you can use your favorite.
• White Rum – adds depth of flavor and a delightful kick to the Lava Flow Cocktail.
• Crushed ice – is necessary to achieve the signature frothy and slushy consistency of the cocktail, and it also helps to blend all the ingredients together flawlessly. Make sure to have plenty on hand.
• Pineapple slices and cherries – the finishing touch as a garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Lava Flow Cocktail Instructions: Crafting the Perfect Cocktail

There are two different mixes that you will need to make for Lava Flow Cocktails: the first is the strawberry base (where the rum is) and the second is a thick coconut mixture that slowly will sink to the bottom of the glass.

The key to making this cocktail is SLOWLY combining the two mixes in one glass to create the “lava flow effect”. The result is an incredibly delicious cocktail with a super cool visual effect!

So let’s get started!

Step One: Blend Strawberries and Rums

• First, you’ll prepare the tantalizing strawberry and rum mixture that forms the base of this Lava Flow Cocktail. In a blender, combine the frozen strawberries and both rums blending until they form a smooth puree. This vibrant blend will infuse the cocktail with a burst of fruity goodness and a hint of tropical allure.
• Pour this mixture into the bottom of your serving glasses, filling them about halfway full.
• Before moving on to the next step, thoroughly rinse out the blender or use a second one.

Step Two: Blend the Remaining Ingredients

• Next, add the pineapple juice, cream of coconut, and crushed ice to the clean blender. Blend the ingredients until you get a smooth and creamy texture.

This creamy and refreshing pineapple-coconut blend perfectly complements the strawberry and rum mixture and will serve as the top layer of our cocktail.

Step Three: Assembling the Lava Flow Cocktail

Now comes the exciting part—bringing together the two flavorful components to create a visually stunning and irresistibly delicious Lava Flow Cocktail.

• To make the magic happen, slowly pour the pineapple-coconut blend into each glass, allowing it to cascade over the strawberry layer. As you do you will see that stunning layering effect, with the red mixture reminiscent of a molten lava flow moving through tropical landscapes.

Step Four: Garnish and Serve

• Garnish the Lava Flow Cocktail with a pineapple wedge and cherry, a strawberry slice, or a colorful cocktail umbrella. These vibrant and tropical accents will elevate the visual appeal, making the cocktail even more irresistible – and making it truly Instagram-worthy.

And that is it! Now all that is left to do is enjoy! It’s very simple to make and so yummy!

Additions, Substitutions, and Variations of the Lava Flow Cocktail Recipe

While the classic Lava Flow Cocktail is undeniably delicious, there’s always room for experimentation and personalization. Here are some simple substitutions, additions, and variations you can try:

Additions:

• Coconut Cream Drizzle: Try adding an extra drizzle of coconut cream on top. Once you’ve poured the pineapple-coconut mixture over the strawberry and rum mixture, add a light drizzle of coconut cream on top. It’ll enhance the creamy texture while also adding a visually appealing touch.
• Toasted Coconut Rim: Add a delightful crunch and a hint of toasted coconut with every sip! Before pouring your cocktail into the glasses, dip the rims in some simple syrup and then roll them in toasted coconut flakes. Then carefully make the cocktail.
• Fresh Mint Sprig: Add a touch of freshness by garnishing the cocktail with a sprig of fresh mint for a burst of refreshing aroma and a pop of vibrant green.
• Pineapple Wedge Skewer: Instead of adding a single pineapple wedge, thread several pineapple wedges onto a skewer and place it on top of the glass as an elegant garnish with a tropical flair.
• Edible Flowers: I’ve seen these cocktails garnished with edible flowers! It adds a lovely touch of elegance while providing a subtle floral note to the tropical taste.

Substitutions:

• Dairy-Free Options: If you have dietary restrictions, you can easily substitute the cream of coconut with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. This way everyone can savor the creamy texture and tropical taste of the Lava Flow cocktail.
• Rum Substitutions: While the traditional recipe calls for coconut and white rum, try exploring different rum varieties to impart distinct flavors. For example, a small amount of spiced rum may add a hint of warmth while a dark rum will give the cocktail a richer, more complex taste.

Variations:

• Creamy Banana: One of the most popular variations of this recipe is adding a banana. It is like a tropical banana split in a glass! Simply blend a ripe banana with the rum in the base mixture.
• Berry Blast: Try swapping out the strawberries with a blend of frozen mixed berries, such as raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries.
• Mango Madness: Enjoy the exotic sweetness of mango by using frozen mango chunks instead of strawberries in the base mixture. The mango will complement the creamy pineapple-coconut blend perfectly.
• Chocolate Delight: Infuse the Lava Flow Cocktail with the rich and velvety taste of chocolate to satisfy that sweet tooth. Simply blend in a tablespoon of chocolate syrup with the strawberry and rum mixture to create a delectable chocolate-strawberry layer.
• Spicy Tropics: Add some heat to your Lava Flow experience by muddling a few slices of fresh jalapeño pepper in the base mixture. The subtle heat will beautifully contrast with the sweetness of the coconut and pineapple!

FAQs – Lava Flow Cocktail Recipe Common Questions

These frequently asked questions should address some of the common questions you may have about the Lava Flow Cocktail recipe. However, if you have any specific concerns or inquiries, please don’t hesitate to ask! Simply leave your question in the comments below and I will answer as soon as possible!

How Do I Get The Lava Flow Effect?

To get that perfect lava flow effect go slow and steady when pouring the white mixture over the strawberry mixture. Take your time and you will have no problem!

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen ones?

Yes, while this recipe calls for frozen strawberries, you can use fresh strawberries as well. However, I find that using frozen strawberries helps achieve the perfect slushy consistency and enhances the chilling effect of the cocktail.

How Can I Make the Lava Flow Cocktail Less Sweet?

You can adjust the sweetness level of this cocktail by either reducing the amount of cream of coconut or opting for a lighter version of it. You can also try adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice to balance the sweetness and add a touch of acidity.

Can I Make the Lava Flow Cocktail in Advance for a Party?

This is one cocktail that is really best to make right before serving. First off, it has a slushy consistency that will not work in the fridge, and the freezer will make it too hard. Secondly, watching the lava flow effect is a big part of this libation.

However, if you really needed to, you could prepare the strawberry base mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Just be sure to give it a good stir to recombine the ingredients. The coconut mixture, though, has crushed ice in it so that one will have to be made when you are about to serve the cocktails.

Can I Use Different Types of Rum for the Lava Flow Cocktail?

Absolutely! This recipe calls for coconut rum and white rum, but feel free to experiment with different rum varieties to customize the flavor. Get creative with it!

Is There a Lava Flow Mocktail or Non-Alcoholic Version of the Lava Flow Cocktail?

Yes, there is a non-alcoholic Lava Flow Mocktail so that kids and people who don’t drink alcohol can easily get in on the deliciousness of this fruity cocktail, too!

To make a virgin lava flow cocktail, simply replace the rum with pineapple juice, coconut water, or even a non-alcoholic coconut-flavored spirit. My personal favorite is using pineapple juice. It is so yummy!

Serving Suggestions: Enjoying the Lava Flow Cocktail

The refreshing flavors and vibrant colors of the Lava Flow cocktail make it ideal for any tropical-themed occasion. Enjoy it in a relaxed and tropical atmosphere while lounging by the pool, basking in the warm sun, or hosting a summer party with friends.

It pairs perfectly with delectable recipes like coconut shrimp, pineapple skewers, Chicken and Vegetable Kabobs, Pineapple Boat Fruit Salad, or grilled Hawaiian chicken. The combination of these tropical delights will transport you to an island paradise, tantalizing your taste buds and leaving you longing for more.

Conclusion: True Tropical Masterpiece

Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering, celebrating a special occasion, or simply looking to unwind after a long day, this Lava Flow Cocktail is a true tropical masterpiece that delivers a deliciously refreshing and unforgettable experience.

With its blend of fresh pineapple, ripe strawberries, creamy coconut, and a hint of rum, it brings a taste of the Hawaiian Islands with each sip that’s sure to impress and leave a lasting impression.

More Delicious Cocktail Recipes

Did you enjoy this cocktail? Me too! I think you’ll really like these other cocktails, as well!

• Blue Glacier Holiday Cocktail
• Berry Smash Lemonade
• Alabama Slammer

Lava Flow Cocktail Recipe Printable