The Coquito is a beloved Puerto Rican holiday drink that blends the rich, creamy goodness of coconut milk, sweetened condensed milk, and rum. This spiced cocktail is often enjoyed during the festive season, making it the perfect drink to share with family and friends. With its velvety texture and hints of cinnamon and vanilla, the Coquito offers a tropical escape in every sip.
For a complete celebration of flavors, pair your Coquito with Churros – the warm, cinnamon-dusted treats offer a delightful contrast to the creamy, spiced drink. Or, enjoy it with Flan Cake, where the silky texture of the flan complements the Coquito’s smooth richness in a perfect, sweet harmony. These pairings will elevate your Coquito experience, making each bite and sip more indulgent and satisfying.
This Coquito Recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy nights with loved ones, or anytime you’re craving a tropical indulgence that’s both delicious and festive.
Why I Love This Recipe (And You Will Too)
- Creamy and Sweet: The combination of coconut milk and sweetened condensed milk creates a dreamy, decadent drink.
- Festive Flavors: The cinnamon and vanilla notes bring out the holiday spirit in every sip.
- A Holiday Tradition: Coquito brings a taste of Puerto Rican tradition to any celebration.
Serve this Coquito alongside churros and flan cake for an unforgettable holiday spread or anytime you’re in the mood for a little tropical indulgence. Enjoy!
Coquito Recipe
Equipment
- Large bottle or container (holds at least 8 cups)
- Funnel (optional)
- Spoon or shakeable container for mixing
Ingredients
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 14-ounce can cream of coconut, shaken well before opening
- 1 14-ounce can coconut milk, shaken well before opening
- 1 12-ounce can evaporated milk
- 1 ½ cups rum such as Bacardi®, or adjust to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Container: Using a funnel if necessary, add the ground cinnamon to a large bottle or container that can hold at least 8 cups.
- Add Liquids: Pour in the sweetened condensed milk, cream of coconut, coconut milk, evaporated milk, and rum.
- Mix Well: Shake the container or stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure everything is well-combined.
- Chill: Refrigerate the Coquito until well-chilled, at least 1 hour. Shake or stir before serving.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve in small glasses, and for a festive touch, garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.
- Enjoy this creamy, spiced holiday drink!
Nutrition Facts:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 346 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 36 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Calcium | 156 mg |
| Iron | 1 mg |
Variations that Are Fun to Try!
1. Spiced Coquito
Add a pinch of ground nutmeg or allspice to the cinnamon for an extra layer of spice. Nutmeg gives the drink a warm, comforting vibe, perfect for cozy holiday evenings.
2. Chocolate Coquito
Mix in 2-3 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder for a rich, chocolatey twist. The deep chocolate flavor complements the coconut base and rum, creating a dessert-like drink.
3. Vanilla Coquito
Add 1 tablespoon of pure vanilla extract to the mixture. This brings a smooth, sweet flavor to balance the spices and adds complexity to the drink.
4. Café Coquito
For a coffee lover’s twist, stir in ½ cup of strong brewed coffee or 2 tablespoons of instant espresso powder. The coffee adds depth and a slight bitterness that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the coconut and rum.
5. Almond Coquito
Add 1 teaspoon of almond extract or a small splash of amaretto to the mix. The nutty flavor pairs perfectly with the coconut and enhances the overall richness of the drink.
6. Pumpkin Spice Coquito
For a fall-inspired version, add 2-3 tablespoons of pumpkin puree and a pinch of ground ginger along with the cinnamon. This gives the Coquito a comforting autumn flavor, perfect for Thanksgiving or Halloween.
7. Gingerbread Coquito
Incorporate 1-2 teaspoons of ground ginger, along with a dash of molasses, to evoke the classic gingerbread flavor. This creates a spiced, warm version that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.
8. Tropical Coquito
Add a splash of pineapple juice or orange juice for a tropical touch. This variation gives the Coquito a refreshing, fruity note that complements the richness of the coconut.
9. Vegan Coquito
For a dairy-free version, substitute the sweetened condensed milk, coconut milk, and evaporated milk with their plant-based counterparts, such as coconut condensed milk and oat milk. You can also use rum that’s certified vegan.
10. Coquito with a Kick
Infuse the rum with a few slices of jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy, savory version of Coquito. This adds a surprising and exciting twist, especially for those who like a bit of heat with their cocktails.
These variations offer a fun way to customize your Coquito, whether you’re craving something chocolatey, spicy, or even tropical. Enjoy experimenting and celebrating!