Patron Strawberry Blue Hawaiian

This Patron Strawberry Blue Hawaiian cocktail combines vibrant layers of strawberry purée, smooth tequila, zesty lemonade, and blue Hawaiian for a drink that's as beautiful as it is delicious. I created this showstopper for a beach-themed party last summer, and it's been my signature cocktail ever since.

I first served these at my sister's poolside birthday and everyone was taking photos before they even took a sip. The compliments kept flowing faster than the cocktails!

Ingredients

• Strawberry purée: The sweet foundation that creates our gorgeous bottom layer and balances the spirits perfectly
• Patron Tequila: Silver tequila provides a clean, smooth backdrop that doesn't overpower the fruit flavors
• Calypso Lemonade: Adds bright citrus notes and the perfect amount of sweetness without being cloying
• On The Rocks Blue Hawaiian: Brings those essential tropical flavors of blue curaçao, pineapple and coconut plus that stunning azure color
• Fresh strawberry for garnish: Creates that perfect finishing touch that elevates this from drink to experience
• Ice: Keeps everything cold and helps create those beautiful defined layers

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start with the strawberry base:

Pour strawberry purée into the bottom of a tall, clear glass. The purée should be smooth and vibrant red. Use a spoon to spread it evenly across the bottom for the perfect foundation.

Add the ice:

Fill your glass about three-quarters full with ice cubes. Larger cubes work best for maintaining distinct layers and slower dilution. Make sure the ice is packed well but not overflowing.

Mix the tequila and lemonade:

Pour the Patron and Calypso Lemonade over your ice. The liquid should flow through the ice and slightly mix with the strawberry layer. This creates our middle section with subtle pink-to-clear gradient.

Create the blue float:

Here comes the showstopper moment. Tilt your glass slightly and slowly pour the Blue Hawaiian over the back of a spoon held just above the drink surface. This technique creates a clean blue layer that floats atop the other ingredients without mixing.

Garnish to impress:

Position a fresh strawberry on the rim or thread it onto a cocktail pick with a pineapple chunk. This finishing touch adds visual appeal and hints at the strawberry flavor waiting below.

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I absolutely love how the strawberry purée interacts with the tequila in this recipe. The first time I made this, my husband said it reminded him of our honeymoon in Maui when we watched the sunset with tropical drinks in hand. Now we make them on our anniversary every year.

The Art of Layering

Creating distinct layers relies on understanding density. Heavier ingredients sink while lighter ones float. The strawberry purée is densest, followed by the spirits and lemonade mixture, with the Blue Hawaiian cocktail being lightest. Temperature matters too. Chilling all ingredients thoroughly before mixing helps maintain separation.

Pour each layer with intention. After adding the strawberry base, pour the middle layer gently over ice to minimize disruption. For the blue top layer, the back-of-spoon technique is crucial. Hold a bar spoon curved side up just above the drink surface and pour slowly over it, allowing the liquid to gently cascade onto the existing layers.

Make It Your Own

This cocktail welcomes personalization. For a stronger drink, increase Patron to 2.5 oz. Prefer something sweeter? Add a splash of simple syrup to the strawberry purée. Want to emphasize the tropical notes? Swap lemonade for pineapple juice. For a spicy variation, muddle jalapeño with the strawberry purée for an unexpected kick that complements the sweetness beautifully.

The presentation offers creative possibilities too. Serve in coconut-rimmed glasses for beach parties or try a champagne flute version for elegant occasions. The color combination works wonderfully for patriotic holidays or team celebrations matching your blue and red colors.

Serving Suggestions

This cocktail shines as part of a tropical menu. Pair with coconut shrimp, mango salsa and chips, or Hawaiian poke bowls for a complete island experience. For dessert, simple fruit skewers or coconut macaroons complement without competing with the drink's sweetness.

Consider a DIY cocktail bar for gatherings. Pre-measure ingredients in small carafes and demonstrate the layering technique once. Guests can then recreate their own Instagram-worthy drinks while you enjoy the party. Just be sure to chill all components thoroughly beforehand.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do you layer the blue Hawaiian in the drink?

To achieve the stunning layered effect, pour the Blue Hawaiian slowly over the back of a spoon. This helps it float above the tequila and lemonade mixture for a vibrant blue top layer.

→ Can I make this drink non-alcoholic?

Yes! Substitute the tequila with coconut water and the Blue Hawaiian layer with a blue raspberry sports drink for a refreshing non-alcoholic alternative.

→ What can I use if I don’t have strawberry purée?

If you don’t have strawberry purée, blend a few fresh strawberries with a teaspoon of sugar and a splash of lemon juice. It’s easy and just as flavorful!

→ What’s the best way to prep for a party?

For easy party prep, mix the tequila and lemonade ahead of time. Make sure your ingredients are chilled to maintain the layering effect and reduce melting.

→ What other garnishes work well with this drink?

Get creative! Try fresh pineapple wedges, edible flowers, or mini cocktail umbrellas for an extra tropical touch.