Description
Coquito is a rich and creamy Puerto Rican coconut-based holiday drink, traditionally enjoyed during Christmas. It combines evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, cream of coconut, and coconut milk with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and is optionally enhanced with white rum for a festive kick. This luscious beverage is blended to smooth perfection and served chilled, making it a delightful treat for gatherings and celebrations.
Ingredients
Scale
Liquids
- 12 oz evaporated milk
- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
- 15 oz cream of coconut
- 13.5 oz coconut milk
- 0.5 to 1 cup white rum (optional)
Flavorings and Spices
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Ground nutmeg (optional, for garnish)
Garnish
- Cinnamon sticks (for garnish)
Instructions
- Combine Dairy and Coconut Ingredients: Add the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, cream of coconut, and coconut milk into a blender. Blend until the mixture is fully smooth and well combined, creating a creamy base.
- Add Flavorings and Alcohol: Add vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and white rum (if using) to the blender. Blend again briefly just to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
- Chill the Mixture: Pour the blended mixture into a pitcher or sealable bottles. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the drink to chill properly.
- Serve with Garnish: Before serving, shake the container well. Pour the coquito into small glasses and garnish each with a cinnamon stick and a sprinkle of ground nutmeg or extra cinnamon for added aroma and presentation.
Notes
- For a non-alcoholic version, omit the white rum.
- The drink tastes best when chilled overnight, allowing the flavors to develop fully.
- Use cream of coconut specifically (such as Coco López) for the authentic rich sweetness; it differs from coconut cream or coconut milk in texture and sugar content.
- Adjust the amount of rum based on your preference for alcohol strength.
- Shake or stir the coquito well before serving as ingredients may settle.
