Coquito is a traditional Puerto Rican holiday drink that’s rich, creamy, and full of festive flavors. Often referred to as “Puerto Rican eggnog,” this delicious cocktail is made with coconut milk, sweetened condensed milk, cinnamon, and rum. It’s perfect for celebrating the holidays with friends and family, and its creamy, coconutty flavor will transport you straight to the tropics. Whether you’re looking for a new holiday tradition or just want a delicious, warming drink, Coquito is the answer. Let’s learn how to make this festive treat!
Ingredients
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 1 can (15 oz) coconut milk
- 1 can (15 oz) cream of coconut
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves (optional)
- 1 to 1 1/2 cups white rum (adjust to taste)
- Cinnamon sticks (for garnish)
Preparation
Step 1: Blend the Ingredients In a blender, combine the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, coconut milk, cream of coconut, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves (if using). Blend until all the ingredients are fully combined and smooth.
Step 2: Add the Rum Add the white rum to the blender and blend again until well incorporated. Adjust the amount of rum according to your preference—more rum for a stronger drink, or less for a milder version.
Step 3: Chill the Mixture Pour the Coquito mixture into a large glass bottle or container. Seal it tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until thoroughly chilled. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the drink’s creamy texture.
Step 4: Serve Before serving, shake the bottle well to ensure all the ingredients are mixed. Pour the Coquito into small glasses and garnish with a cinnamon stick for a festive touch. Serve cold and enjoy!
Variation
- Vegan Coquito: Substitute the evaporated milk and sweetened condensed milk with coconut evaporated milk and sweetened condensed coconut milk to make a vegan version of this classic holiday drink.
- Chocolate Coquito: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the blender for a chocolate twist on the traditional recipe.
- Spiced Coquito: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra cloves for a spicier version that adds warmth and depth to the drink.
- Non-Alcoholic Coquito: Simply omit the rum for a non-alcoholic version that the whole family can enjoy.
Cooking Note
- Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet drink, reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk. You can also add more coconut milk to balance the sweetness.
- Blending Tip: Blend the mixture in batches if needed, especially if your blender isn’t large enough to accommodate all the ingredients at once.
- Storage: Coquito can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just be sure to shake it well before serving, as the ingredients may separate over time.
Serving Suggestions
- Holiday Gatherings: Coquito is a perfect addition to any holiday gathering or festive celebration. Its creamy, spiced flavors make it a great choice for parties and family get-togethers.
- Dessert Pairing: Serve Coquito alongside holiday desserts like flan, tres leches cake, or coconut macaroons. The flavors of Coquito complement these sweet treats beautifully.
- Gift Idea: Pour Coquito into decorative bottles and give it as a holiday gift to friends and loved ones. Tie a ribbon around the bottle for a festive touch.
Tips
- Use Quality Rum: For the best flavor, use a good-quality white rum. The rum is an important component of Coquito, so quality matters.
- Chill Well: Make sure to chill the Coquito thoroughly before serving. The drink is best enjoyed cold, and the flavors meld together beautifully as it chills.
- Get Creative with Garnishes: Consider garnishing with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon, grated nutmeg, or even a cinnamon stick for an extra festive presentation.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
- Protein: 5g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Sugar: 28g
- Fat: 15g
FAQs
1. Can I make Coquito without alcohol?
Yes! Simply omit the rum for a non-alcoholic version that still has all the creamy, spiced flavors of the original.
2. How long can I store Coquito in the refrigerator?
Coquito can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Be sure to shake it well before serving, as the ingredients may separate over time.
3. What type of rum is best for Coquito?
A good-quality white rum works best for Coquito. You can also use spiced rum for an extra layer of flavor if you prefer.
4. Can I adjust the spices to my taste?
Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the amount of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves to suit your taste. You can also add other spices like allspice or ginger for a unique twist.
5. Can I make Coquito ahead of time?
Yes, Coquito is actually better when made ahead of time. Preparing it a day or two in advance allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a richer, more flavorful drink.
Conclusion
Coquito is a beloved Puerto Rican holiday drink that brings the festive spirit to life with every sip. Its creamy texture, coconut flavor, and warming spices make it a perfect drink for celebrating the season with loved ones. Whether you’re making it for a holiday party, giving it as a gift, or simply enjoying a cozy night in, Coquito is sure to be a hit. Gather your ingredients, blend up a batch, and share this delicious tradition with friends and family—cheers to a festive season and delightful flavors!
Print
Coquito Recipe
- Total Time: 10 min
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 1 can (15 oz) coconut milk
- 1 can (15 oz) cream of coconut
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves (optional)
- 1 to 1 1/2 cups white rum (adjust to taste)
- Cinnamon sticks (for garnish)
Instructions
Preparation
Step 1: Blend the Ingredients In a blender, combine the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, coconut milk, cream of coconut, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves (if using). Blend until all the ingredients are fully combined and smooth.
Step 2: Add the Rum Add the white rum to the blender and blend again until well incorporated. Adjust the amount of rum according to your preference—more rum for a stronger drink, or less for a milder version.
Step 3: Chill the Mixture Pour the Coquito mixture into a large glass bottle or container. Seal it tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until thoroughly chilled. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the drink’s creamy texture.
Step 4: Serve Before serving, shake the bottle well to ensure all the ingredients are mixed. Pour the Coquito into small glasses and garnish with a cinnamon stick for a festive touch. Serve cold and enjoy!
Notes
- Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet drink, reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk. You can also add more coconut milk to balance the sweetness.
- Blending Tip: Blend the mixture in batches if needed, especially if your blender isn’t large enough to accommodate all the ingredients at once.
- Storage: Coquito can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just be sure to shake it well before serving, as the ingredients may separate over time.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 0 min
Nutrition
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Protein: 5g