Dinners · 3 min read
Blue Hawaiian
Refreshing Olive Garden Blue Hawaiian cocktail with coconut rum, pineapple juice, and blue curaçao. A tropical drink perfect for summer parties.
★ 5.0 (4)
The Olive Garden Blue Hawaiian is a tropical cocktail that brings together coconut rum, pineapple juice, and blue curacao. The result is a refreshing drink with a bright blue color and a sweet, citrusy flavor. This copycat recipe makes it easy to mix up at home, whether you're hosting a summer party or just want a little escape.
Why You’ll Love This Blue Hawaiian Cocktail Recipe
- It takes just a few minutes to mix, with only four ingredients you can keep on hand.
- The blue curacao gives the drink its signature turquoise color, making it a standout at any gathering.
- Coconut rum adds a subtle tropical sweetness that pairs beautifully with pineapple juice.
Key Ingredients for an Authentic Blue Hawaiian Cocktail
- Malibu Rum - This coconut-flavored rum is the backbone of the drink. Its sweet coconut taste is what makes the Blue Hawaiian distinct. If you can't find Malibu, any coconut rum will work, but look for one with a clear coconut flavor.
- Blue Curacao - This orange-flavored liqueur provides the vivid blue color. It also adds a hint of citrus that balances the pineapple and rum. You can find it at most liquor stores.
- Sour Mix - A mix of lemon and lime juice with simple syrup, sour mix gives the cocktail its tart edge. You can use bottled sour mix or make your own with equal parts lemon juice and simple syrup.
Tools You’ll Need for This Blue Hawaiian Cocktail
- Cocktail shaker - To mix and chill the ingredients properly.
- Hurricane glass - The classic glass for this drink, but any tall glass works.
- Jigger or measuring cup - For accurate measurements of the rum, curacao, and juices.
- Strainer - If your shaker doesn't have a built-in strainer.
Tips for Mixing the Best Blue Hawaiian Cocktail
- Shake the ingredients with ice until the shaker feels cold to the touch. This ensures the drink is well-chilled and slightly diluted.
- Use fresh pineapple juice if you can find it. The flavor is brighter and less sweet than canned.
- If you prefer a tarter drink, add a little extra sour mix. For a sweeter version, use less.
- Garnish with a pineapple wedge and a maraschino cherry right before serving to keep them fresh.
Blue Hawaiian Cocktail Variations to Try
- Non-Alcoholic Blue Hawaiian - Skip the rum and use coconut water or coconut cream instead, and increase the pineapple juice to keep the volume.
- Spicy Blue Hawaiian - Add a small slice of jalapeño to the shaker for a subtle heat that contrasts with the sweet fruit.
- Rum Swap - If you don't have coconut rum, use light rum and add a splash of coconut cream to get a similar flavor.
How to Serve a Blue Hawaiian Cocktail
- Garnish with a fresh pineapple wedge and a maraschino cherry, as the recipe suggests.
- Add a paper umbrella or a colorful straw for a tiki-party vibe.
- Serve alongside coconut shrimp, pineapple salsa with tortilla chips, or a fresh fruit platter for a tropical appetizer spread.
How to Store Leftover Blue Hawaiian Cocktail
This cocktail is best enjoyed right after mixing, because the ice melts and dilutes the drink over time. If you have leftover (which is unlikely), you can store the mixed drink without ice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day. When you're ready to serve, pour it over fresh ice and give it a quick stir.
Source recipe: Blue Hawaiian (SnapChef ID 3f6c2614-469d-47a8-9fa9-e4064d1673f1). Nutrition is estimated per serving.
Ingredients
Directions
- Shake the sour mix, pineapple juice, blue curaçao, and Malibu Rum in a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Strain into a hurricane glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with pineapple and a cherry if desired.
Tap a step number to check it off as you cook.
Nutrition Facts per serving · estimated
Amount per serving
% Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet (FDA).
Good to know
Questions, answered
What's the difference between a Blue Hawaiian and a Blue Hawaii?
The Blue Hawaiian uses coconut rum, while the Blue Hawaii uses vodka and light rum. The Olive Garden version is a Blue Hawaiian because it calls for Malibu rum. The Blue Hawaii also typically includes orange juice and sweet and sour mix, but the main difference is the base spirit.
Can I make this without sour mix?
Yes, you can substitute with equal parts lemon juice and simple syrup. For a quicker fix, use bottled lime juice and a little sugar. The sour mix adds tartness, so adjust to taste.
Can I use regular rum instead of coconut rum?
You can, but the drink will lose its coconut flavor. To mimic the original, add a splash of coconut cream or coconut extract to the shaker.
How do I make a frozen Blue Hawaiian?
Combine all the ingredients with about a cup of ice in a blender and blend until smooth. Pour into a hurricane glass and garnish as usual. The frozen version is thicker and more like a slushie.
