Description
Coquito is a traditional Puerto Rican holiday drink that resembles eggnog but is coconut-based. This rich, creamy cocktail blends evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, cream of coconut, and coconut milk with warming spices and optional rum. Perfectly chilled and garnished with cinnamon, Coquito is a festive, sweet, and smooth beverage ideal for celebrations or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Milk and Coconut Base
- 12 oz evaporated milk
- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
- 15 oz cream of coconut
- 13.5 oz coconut milk
Flavorings and Spices
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Ground nutmeg (optional, for garnish)
- Cinnamon sticks (for garnish)
Alcohol
- 0.5 to 1 cup white rum (optional)
Instructions
- Combine the Base Ingredients. Add the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, cream of coconut, and coconut milk into a blender. Blend on high speed until the mixture becomes fully smooth and well combined.
- Add Flavorings and Optional Rum. Pour in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and if desired, white rum. Blend again briefly just to incorporate all flavors evenly without overmixing.
- Chill the Mixture. Transfer the blended Coquito into a pitcher or sealable bottles. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the drink to become refreshingly cold.
- Serve and Garnish. Shake the chilled Coquito well before serving. Pour into small glasses and garnish each with a cinnamon stick and a light sprinkle of ground nutmeg or extra cinnamon for aroma and presentation.
Notes
- For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the white rum.
- Shake well before each serving as natural separation can occur in the refrigerator.
- Adjust the amount of rum to taste; start with 0.5 cup for a milder alcoholic content.
- Use cream of coconut specifically (like Coco Lopez) for the authentic sweetness and creaminess.
- This drink is best served chilled and within 3 to 4 days of preparation.
