Description
Imagine popping open a chilled, creamy frozen treat bursting with the tropical flavors of coconut and pineapple, inspired by a classic Puerto Rican piña colada. Sounds like a beachside escape in every bite, right? That’s exactly what Limber de Coco y Piña delivers! This easy, no-fuss recipe is perfect for hot summer days, tropical-themed parties, or a quick taste of Puerto Rico at home.
Ingredients
This limber recipe uses just five ingredients to deliver big tropical flavor. Here’s what you need and why each one matters:
- Unsweetened Coconut Milk (13 oz can): The creamy, tropical base.
- Why it matters: Adds rich coconut flavor and a smooth texture.
- Substitution: Use full-fat canned coconut milk for best results; avoid light versions for creaminess.
- Pineapple Juice (2 cups): Brings sweet-tart tropical flavor.
- Why it matters: Mimics the piña colada’s fruity kick.
- Substitution: Use fresh pineapple juice or orange juice for a twist.
- Sweetened Coconut Cream (1/2 cup): Enhances sweetness and coconut richness.
- Why it matters: Adds a creamy, sweet depth to balance the tart juice.
- Substitution: Use additional coconut milk with 2 tbsp sugar if unavailable.
- Drained Canned Pineapple Chunks (1/2 cup): Add texture and bursts of fruit.
- Why it matters: Provide juicy pineapple flavor in every bite.
- Substitution: Use fresh pineapple chunks, diced small.
- Sugar (1/2 cup, plus more if needed): Sweetens the mixture.
- Why it matters: Balances the tartness of pineapple juice.
- Substitution: Use honey or agave nectar, adjusting to taste.
Pro Tip: Taste the mixture before freezing and adjust sugar if you prefer a sweeter limber, especially if your pineapple juice is tart.
Instructions
- Prep the Cups:
- Place six 8-ounce plastic cups on a tray small enough to fit in your freezer.
- Tip: Ensure cups are stable to avoid tipping during freezing.
- Blend the Mixture:
- In a blender, combine one 13-oz can unsweetened coconut milk, 2 cups pineapple juice, 1/2 cup sweetened coconut cream, 1/2 cup drained canned pineapple chunks, and 1/2 cup sugar.
- Blend until smooth and homogeneous, about 30-60 seconds.
- Taste and add more sugar if desired for extra sweetness.
- Tip: Scrape down the blender sides to ensure all ingredients are fully blended.
- Fill the Cups:
- Pour the mixture into the six plastic cups, filling each to about 1/4 inch from the brim to allow for expansion.
- Tip: Use a spouted measuring cup for mess-free pouring.
- Freeze and Stir:
- Freeze the cups for 1 hour, then stir each with a small spoon to reincorporate the mixture and prevent separation.
- The mixture should be at a slurry stage (thick but not fully frozen).
- Continue freezing for at least 7 more hours until fully solid.
- Tip: Stirring at the 1-hour mark ensures a uniform texture.
- Serve:
- Remove from the freezer and enjoy straight from the cups, or run under warm water briefly to unmold for a popsicle-like experience.
- Health Benefit: Pineapple’s vitamin C and coconut’s healthy fats make this a refreshing treat with a nutritional boost!