A new TikTok-fuelled trend is taking summer by storm, blending two poolside classics—beer and tropical cocktails—into one DIY creation. Enter the Piña Corona, a mashup of the iconic Mexican lager and the flavours of a Piña Colada, capturing the imagination of cocktail fans and beer drinkers alike.

The drink has become a viral sensation thanks to its novelty, easy prep, and eye-catching presentation. As social media buzz builds, the Piña Corona could spell a refreshing branding win for Corona, even as it plays second fiddle to Modelo Especial in U.S. beer rankings.

What is a Piña Corona?

At its core, the Piña Corona is a quick-build cocktail made directly in the beer bottle. The method involves drinking or pouring out roughly half a bottle of Corona, then topping it up with a splash of white rum, a dollop of coconut cream (or milk), and a generous helping of pineapple juice.

Once added, the mixture is gently inverted with a thumb over the bottle’s mouth to blend. TikTok creator @madisoncmatlock warns against shaking: “Don’t shake, because it has carbonation, which I had to learn the hard way.” After the explosion risk subsides, a lime garnish seals the summer vibe.

An alternative method uses a cocktail shaker to blend the rum, coconut, and pineapple juice before funnelling it back into the beer bottle. The result is a sweet, slightly creamy drink with the crisp bite of lager and the tropical allure of rum-based cocktails.

Variations and measurements

Creators have already begun tweaking the recipe. Some opt for coconut milk instead of coconut cream for a smoother texture and easier mix. “You’re going to have to stir [with cream], you’re going to have to move it around a bit as it does settle in the bottom,” explains @madisoncmatlock.

Others go alcohol-free with virgin versions using non-alcoholic Corona and rum substitutes, while adventurous drinkers are freezing the concoction into Piña Corona slushies.

For those wanting exact measurements, TikTok user @SkittleRose offers this guide:

• Corona: drink or pour down to the logo
  
• White rum: fill to the top of the logo
  
• Pineapple juice: fill to the neck
  
• Coconut cream: add a small dash
  

Mixed reviews, growing interest

As with most viral food and drink trends, the Piña Corona has sparked debate. Some users are fully on board, calling it “super refreshing and just creamy enough,” and “perfect for the summer time.”

One user summed it up with: “I don’t even like beer… but this I can get behind.” Others were more skeptical. Comments like “I had anxiety watching this” and “The idea was better than the taste” reveal that the unconventional combo isn’t for everyone.

Still, many swear by the tropical beer blend. Some claim to have made versions for years, such as @JamesHighsmith59 who wrote: “Been doing this since the late 90s—just add Bacardi Limon.”

Best rums for a Piña Corona

Choosing the right rum is part of the fun. TikTokers have suggested a range of coconut-infused options to elevate the drink. Among the favourites:

• Malibu: a sweet and accessible choice
  
• Don Q Coco: a Puerto Rican rum known for its coconut variety
  
• Dead Man’s Fingers Coconut Rum: a bolder alternative gaining popularity
  

Each adds its own nuance to the drink, allowing fans to tailor the flavour to their liking.

With Corona valued at $7.4 billion in 2023, but recently losing its crown as America’s top beer to sibling brand Modelo Especial, the Piña Corona trend could offer a much-needed boost. Whether the drink is a fleeting fad or the next cocktail mainstay, it has already succeeded in getting people talking—and drinking—this summer.