Chi Chi cocktail
The Chi Chi cocktail is a close relative of the much more well-known Pina Colada, it swaps the rum for the vodka. The vodka makes the drink less sweet than the Pina Colada.
The Chi Chi cocktail is believed to be another creation of Donn Beach who is most known for his potent rum-based Zombie cocktail.
- Prep Time:
- Total Time:
- Type: Cocktail
- Units: 2
Equipment
- hurricane glass
Ingredients
- 120 ml pineapple juice
- 60 ml vodka
- 30 ml cream of coconut
- pineapple slice
- maraschino cherry
Instructions
- In a blender add the vodka, pineapple juice and coconut cream and ice then blend until smooth.
- Pour into a chilled highball glass.
- Garnish with a pineapple slice and a maraschino cherry.
FAQ
What’s in a Chi Chi cocktail?
The Chi Chi is essentially a vodka-based twist on the Piña Colada. It’s made with vodka, pineapple juice, and cream of coconut, blended with ice for a creamy, tropical drink.
How strong is a Chi Chi?
A standard serve (50ml vodka at 40% ABV, blended with juice and coconut cream) comes to about 2.0 alcohol units – similar in strength to the Piña Colada and lighter than short drinks like the Martini.
How does it taste compared to a Piña Colada?
It’s just as creamy and tropical, but a little lighter and less complex since vodka has a cleaner profile than rum. If you enjoy fruity vodka drinks like the Sea Breeze or Sex on the Beach, the Chi Chi is a natural fit.
What glass is it served in?
Traditionally in a hurricane glass or tall tiki-style glass, finished with a pineapple wedge and cherry.
When did the Chi Chi become popular?
It took off in the 1970s and 80s during the tiki and blender-drink craze, when creamy tropical cocktails were everywhere.
Which other vodka cocktails are similar?
If you like the Chi Chi, you might also enjoy the Vodka Martini for a cleaner, stronger serve, or the Lemon Drop for something citrusy and sharp.