Looking for the perfect winter cocktail that dazzles your guests and tastes like a tropical vacation in a glass? The Jack Frost Cocktail checks every box. With its icy blue hue, creamy pineapple-coconut blend, and snowy coconut rim, this festive drink is a showstopper at any holiday gathering. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas party or enjoying a cozy night in, this frozen blue cocktail brings the chill of winter and warmth of rum together in one unforgettable sip. Plus, we’ve got mocktail options and variations to keep everyone at your table smiling.
Don’t miss our Holiday Punch Drink Recipe for another vibrant seasonal sipper.
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What is a Jack Frost Cocktail?
A Holiday Favorite with a Tropical Twist
Despite its frosty name, the Jack Frost Cocktail is all about sunshine flavors wrapped in a winter package. Traditionally made with light rum, Blue Curacao, pineapple juice, and cream of coconut, it’s a frozen drink that bridges the gap between beach bar and holiday bash. The coconut-rimmed glass mimics fresh snow, while the vibrant blue color makes it one of the most photogenic Christmas cocktails out there.
This cocktail has grown in popularity thanks to its quick prep time (only five minutes!), stunning appearance, and the way it surprises guests with its cool yet fruity profile.
Inspiration Behind the Name “Jack Frost”
Jack Frost is a mythical figure representing winter’s chill—he’s said to nip noses and leave frosty patterns on windows. The cocktail takes its name from this character, but ironically, the drink feels more like a beach vacation than a snowstorm. The “frost” comes from its frozen texture and the snowy rim created by shredded coconut, making it feel both festive and refreshing.
Why It’s a Crowd-Pleaser at Winter Gatherings
There’s something magical about serving a drink that looks like it belongs in a snow globe. It’s colorful, bold, and brings a tropical surprise to typical holiday drink menus. And if you’re looking for easy entertaining? This one’s it. You can make it in batches, prepare garnished glasses ahead of time, and even serve a nonalcoholic version for kids and guests who prefer mocktails.
Looking for inspiration? Try our Mulled Cider Holiday Drink for a cozy, warm alternative.
Ingredients You Need for the Perfect Jack Frost Cocktail

Core Ingredients and Their Substitutes
To make this beautiful cocktail, here’s what you need:
| Ingredient | Purpose | Substitutes |
|---|---|---|
| Light Rum | Alcohol base | Coconut rum for extra flavor |
| Blue Curacao | Adds color + citrus notes | Blue Curacao syrup for mocktails |
| Pineapple Juice | Bright, tropical sweetness | Mango or orange juice (milder taste) |
| Cream of Coconut | Creamy texture + flavor | Coconut milk (less sweet) |
| Ice | Frozen slushy consistency | – |
| Corn Syrup (rim) | Sticky base for coconut garnish | Simple syrup |
| Shredded Coconut | Snow-like garnish | Sugar crystals (for sparkle) |
Discover great ideas like our Christmas Candy Bark Recipe for sweet treats to pair with this cocktail.
Alcohol-Free Mocktail Version
Want to make a Jack Frost mocktail? It’s easy. Just replace the rum with additional pineapple juice and swap Blue Curacao with a nonalcoholic blue syrup like Torani’s Blue Curacao Syrup or Davinci. Even a splash of Kool-Aid or homemade simple syrup with blue food coloring works in a pinch.
Mocktails are ideal for kids, teens, and non-drinkers who want to enjoy the holiday spirit—minus the alcohol.
Check out our Poisoned Apple Cider Drink for another family-friendly party drink.
Choosing Quality Ingredients for Best Flavor
The key to a standout Jack Frost Cocktail lies in using high-quality ingredients:
- Filtered Ice: Avoid tap water ice—its taste can alter the drink.
- Coco Lopez: This cream of coconut brand is thick, rich, and ideal for cocktails.
- Natural Pineapple Juice: Go for 100% juice with no added sugars for a clean, balanced taste.
You’ll also want to use fresh shredded coconut—unsweetened if possible—for rimming the glass. The right ingredients don’t just make the drink taste better—they make it look professional too.
Don’t miss our Christmas Cookie Bars Dessert to complete your holiday spread.
How to Make a Jack Frost Cocktail Like a Pro
Step-by-Step Blending Instructions
Making this frosty drink couldn’t be easier. The Jack Frost Cocktail is all about quick blending and visual appeal. Here’s a step-by-step method to get it just right:
- Prepare the glass rim first. Pour a little corn syrup into a shallow plate.
- In another plate, sprinkle shredded coconut.
- Dip your glass into the syrup, then into the coconut. Set aside.
- In a blender, combine:
- 1.5 cups of ice
- 2 oz light rum (or coconut rum)
- 2 oz Blue Curacao
- 4 oz pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup cream of coconut
- Blend until slushy. If it’s too thin, add more ice.
- Pour carefully into the prepared glasses and serve immediately.
Looking for inspiration? Try our Frozen Pina Colada Recipe for another blender-based tropical favorite.
How to Rim the Glass with Coconut “Snow”
The snow-rimmed glass gives the Jack Frost Cocktail its signature winter look. Here’s how to make sure the coconut sticks evenly:
- Use corn syrup or simple syrup as the adhesive. Water won’t hold coconut flakes well.
- Roll the rim gently in the syrup, avoiding drips down the glass.
- Press the rim into unsweetened shredded coconut.
- Let it rest upright for a few minutes to set before pouring the drink.
Pro tip: If you applied too much syrup, blot with a clean paper towel or brush lightly with a food-safe brush.
Tips for Serving It Frozen Just Right
A slushy cocktail should be refreshing—not watery. Here’s how to nail the texture:
- Use crushed ice if your blender isn’t high-powered.
- Freeze your cocktail glasses for 10 minutes before serving.
- Serve immediately after blending. This drink melts quickly and is best enjoyed icy cold.
Hosting a party? Prepare a batch mix (minus the ice) in advance and store it chilled. Blend with ice right before serving for ultimate freshness.
Don’t miss our Cinnamon Apple Bourbon Smash for another cold-weather cocktail twist.
Variations and Customizations to Try
Make It Creamier or Stronger
Want to switch things up? Here are ways to customize the Jack Frost Cocktail for your flavor preferences:
- Add a splash of heavy cream or vanilla ice cream for a dessert-style drink.
- Use coconut rum (like Malibu) instead of light rum to boost coconut flavor.
- Swap some pineapple juice for orange juice to play up the citrus notes from the Blue Curacao.
You can also bump up the alcohol content for a stronger drink, but beware—it’s so smooth you might not notice until it hits!
Garnish Options That Wow
Presentation matters. Here are some festive garnishes to enhance the tropical winter vibe:
- Fresh pineapple wedges
- A twist of lime peel
- Edible glitter or sugar crystals on top
- A candy cane for a fun seasonal touch
Serve with a blue-and-white striped paper straw for Instagram-worthy cocktail hour.
Discover great ideas like our Gingerbread Pancakes Recipe if you’re building a full holiday brunch menu.
Turning It Into a Party Punch
Entertaining a crowd? The Jack Frost Cocktail easily scales up into a punch. Here’s how:
- Triple or quadruple the recipe.
- Mix all ingredients (except ice) in a large pitcher and chill until serving.
- When ready, blend with ice in batches and serve in rimmed glasses.
- Keep extra shredded coconut handy for refreshing glass rims.
Want it to stay slushy longer? Use a frozen punch bowl or serve in a chilled dispenser over ice.
Check out our Hot Toddy Cocktail Recipe for guests who prefer a warm drink alternative.
FAQs About Jack Frost Cocktail
Can I make a Jack Frost Cocktail ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the liquid ingredients in advance (rum, Blue Curacao, pineapple juice, and cream of coconut) and store them in the fridge. Rim your glasses with coconut earlier in the day, then blend everything with ice right before serving to keep the drink slushy and fresh.
What’s the difference between Blue Curacao and Blue Curacao syrup?
Blue Curacao is an alcoholic liqueur made from the dried peel of the Laraha citrus fruit, and it gives a mildly bitter orange flavor with a striking blue color. Blue Curacao syrup, on the other hand, is a non-alcoholic alternative used in mocktails. It’s sweeter and often used for color and aroma without the booze.
Is this safe for kids if made without alcohol?
Absolutely. Simply leave out the rum and replace Blue Curacao with a non-alcoholic blue syrup. Kids love the look and taste of this fun, frosty drink when made as a mocktail. You can even top it with whipped cream or add fun straws for a festive presentation.
Can I use coconut milk instead of cream of coconut?
You can, but the texture and sweetness will change. Cream of coconut is thicker and much sweeter, making it ideal for cocktails. If you’re using coconut milk, consider adding a touch of simple syrup to maintain the dessert-like flavor profile.
Conclusion: Add a Frosty Touch to Your Holidays with Jack Frost Cocktails
Whether you’re hosting a festive brunch, a cozy night by the fire, or a winter cocktail party, the Jack Frost Cocktail brings vibrant color, creamy texture, and tropical flavor to your holiday celebration. Its snowy rim and icy blue look make it a seasonal favorite, while the pineapple and coconut combo keeps every sip refreshing.
From kid-friendly mocktails to boozy adult versions, this drink fits every occasion. Blend it up in minutes and wow your guests—cheers to a magical, merry season.
Don’t miss our Eggnog Recipe Homemade 2025 if you’re building a full holiday drink bar lineup!
PrintJack Frost Cocktail
A tropical twist on a winter drink, the Jack Frost Cocktail combines rum, Blue Curacao, pineapple juice, and cream of coconut in a frozen, icy blue holiday treat with a snow-dusted coconut rim.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 2 cocktails
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Blended
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups ice
- 2 oz light rum (or coconut rum)
- 2 oz Blue Curacao
- 4 oz pineapple juice (no sugar added)
- 1/4 cup cream of coconut (e.g., Coco Lopez)
- Corn syrup (for rimming glass)
- Shredded coconut, unsweetened (for garnish)
Instructions
- Pour corn syrup into a shallow plate. In another plate, add shredded coconut.
- Dip rim of serving glass in corn syrup, then into shredded coconut to coat. Set aside.
- In a blender, add ice, rum, Blue Curacao, pineapple juice, and cream of coconut.
- Blend until slushy consistency is achieved. Add more ice if needed.
- Carefully pour into prepared glasses, avoiding the coconut rim. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use coconut rum for a stronger coconut flavor.
- Use Blue Curacao syrup and omit alcohol for a mocktail version.
- Freeze glasses before serving for a longer-lasting slushy effect.
- Blot excess syrup from the glass rim with a towel before adding coconut if needed.
- Scale the recipe for a crowd by preparing ingredients in advance and blending with ice before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cocktail
- Calories: 328 kcal
- Sugar: 35 g
- Sodium: 29 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.04 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 0.2 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
