Traditional Puerto Rican Coquito Recipe

Ingredients

2 cans (15 oz each) Cream of Coconut
2 cans (14 oz each) Sweetened Condensed Milk
2 cans (12 oz each) Evaporated Milk
1 bottle (750 ml) White Rum
1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract
1/2 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg
1/2 cup Sweetened Shredded Coconut (optional)
Cinnamon Sticks for garnish (optional)

Steps and instructions

In a blender, combine the cream of coconut, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, rum, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Blend on high until mixture is well combined, 1-2 minutes.
Pour the coquito into a large glass bottle or pitcher with a tight-fitting lid.
Optionally, add the shredded coconut to the mixture.
Close the bottle or pitcher and refrigerate until very cold, at least 2 hours. The coquito will thicken as it cools.
Stir or shake well before serving. Serve cold in small glasses and garnish with a cinnamon stick if desired.

Tools for making

Blender - Needed to blend and mix the ingredients together smoothly.
Large glass bottle or pitcher - Used to store and chill the coquito mixture.
Tight-fitting lid - Ensures that the coquito is securely sealed while refrigerating.
Small glasses - Used to serve the coquito.
Cinnamon sticks - Optional garnish for the coquito when served.

Recipe variations

Replace the white rum with dark rum for a richer flavor.
Add a pinch of ground cloves for a hint of spiciness.
Experiment with different flavors of rum, such as coconut rum or spiced rum.
For a non-alcoholic version, omit the rum and increase the amount of cream of coconut or use coconut extract for flavor.
Add a splash of coffee liqueur for a hint of coffee flavor.
Include a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a chocolate twist.
For a creamier texture, blend in a ripe banana.
Serve over ice and blend for a frozen coquito treat.
Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra indulgence.

Recipe overview

This Coquito recipe will transport you straight to the sunny and flavorful shores of Puerto Rico. Coquito, meaning "Little Coconut" in Spanish, is a traditional Puerto Rican holiday cocktail brimming with the tropical notes of creamy coconut, punctuated by a warm blend of spices and a generous pour of white rum. It is often compared to eggnog and is just as rich and festive. Making Coquito is straightforward and only requires a few simple steps. You'll need to blend your ingredients together, then allow the mixture to cool in the refrigerator, which will also let the flavors meld beautifully. You'll be serving up this festive, creamy, and oh-so-delicious cocktail in no time. This recipe yields a generous amount, making it perfect for holiday get-togethers or for gifting to friends and family. Just remember to keep it chilled and give it a good shake before pouring. Enjoy!

Common questions

Can I make coquito without alcohol? Yes, you can make a non-alcoholic version of coquito by omitting the rum from the recipe. The other ingredients will still provide a delicious and creamy drink.
Can I use a different type of rum? Yes, you can use a different type of rum if you prefer. White rum is commonly used, but you can experiment with different flavors to suit your taste.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the coquito? Absolutely! If you find the coquito too sweet, you can reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk or cream of coconut. Similarly, if you prefer it sweeter, you can add more of these ingredients.
How long will coquito stay fresh? Coquito can be refrigerated and enjoyed for up to two weeks. Make sure to keep it tightly sealed in a bottle or pitcher.
Can I add other spices to the coquito? Certainly! Coquito is a versatile drink, and you can experiment with additional spices like cloves, allspice, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper to add a unique twist.

Serving dishes and utensils

Blender - A blender is needed to mix all the ingredients together smoothly.
Glass Bottle or Pitcher with Lid - Used to store and refrigerate the coquito.
Small Glasses - Used to serve the coquito.
Cinnamon Sticks - Optional garnish for the coquito.

Origin stories

Coquito, a beloved Puerto Rican holiday drink, is often referred to as Puerto Rican Eggnog. One of the main differences, however, is that traditional coquito doesn't actually contain eggs. The name coquito itself translates to "little coconut," which speaks to the creamy and rich coconut-based nature of this festive concoction. It's a cherished and time-honored tradition during the Christmas season on the island, with many families having their own unique variations passed down through generations. A popular custom surrounding coquito is the tradition of gifting it to friends and family during the holiday season, which ties into the strong sense of community and celebration in Puerto Rican culture.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.