After buying a bottle of Monin’s popcorn syrup I’ve been trying many ways to incorporate it into cocktails. Fortunately they have some recipes on their site so I adapted one to make this fabulously refreshing popcorn colada. It’s similar to a regular one, but the measurements have been adjusted to incorporate the syrup!

After making one of my favorite creations, the cinema sour, I realized I should probably find other uses for the tasty popcorn syrup. Since there are not many options out there I figured adapting classics is the way to go. This popcorn colada is likely to transport you to a tropical beach – perhaps one that plays outdoor films with guests on beanbag chairs.
For most pina coladas you will want to use a simple rum. Either a white or a lightly aged rum. The more funky stuff like Pot Still Jamaica Rum are just too grassy and overpowering in a cocktail like this. I chose the basic Havana Club 3 year which I find to be a great balance between white and a good 7 year. Ultimately the choice is up to you.
What Is Popcorn Syrup
Popcorn syrup is a movie theater popcorn flavored syrup used in both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. It works great as a bar syrup, but you will also see it at coffee shops or cafes as a flavored sweetener.
How To Make A Popcorn Colada

This recipe uses a mix of fresh and bottled ingredients. However depending on the level of effort you want to put into it you can make easy substitutions.
Ingredients
- 70 ml Rum – I used a 3 year aged gold rum, but you can use white or an even older one if you prefer. I would stay away from funky ones or spiced rums as they are too unique for this cocktail.
- 40 ml Pineapple Juice – I recommend freshly pressed, but you can use bottled as well since it is likely more convenient.
- 40 ml Coconut Milk
- 20 ml Popcorn Syrup – recommend the Monin brand
- 20 ml Coconut Syrup – I recommend the Monin brand, but other brands also make decent coconut syrups as well.
- 10 ml Lemon Juice – freshly squeezed
To Make: Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice and shake hard for 15 seconds. Pour without straining directly into your serving glass. Garnish with some pineapple and caramel popcorn and enjoy!


Popcorn Colada
Equipment
- 1 Cocktail Shaker Set
Ingredients
- 70 ml Rum I used a 3 year aged gold rum but you can use white or an even older one if you prefer. I would stay away from funky ones or spiced rums as they are too unique for this cocktail.
- 40 ml Pineapple Juice I recommend freshly pressed but you can use bottled as well since it is likely more convenient.
- 40 ml Coconut Milk
- 20 ml Popcorn Syrup recommend the Monin brand
- 20 ml Coconut Syrup I recommend the Monin brand but other brands also make decent coconut syrups as well.
- 10 ml Lemon Juice freshly squeezed
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker with plenty of ice. Shake hard for 15 seconds and then pour without straining into your glass. Garnish with some pineapple and caramel popcorn. Enjoy!
