Description
Coquito is a traditional Puerto Rican holiday drink that blends creamy coconut flavors with warm spices and a hint of rum. This rich, smooth beverage combines evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, cream of coconut, and coconut milk, enhanced with vanilla and cinnamon to create a deliciously festive treat perfect for sharing during the holiday season.
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 & Spices
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Ground nutmeg (optional, for garnish)
- Cinnamon sticks (for garnish)
Instructions
- Blend the Base: Add the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, cream of coconut, and coconut milk into a blender. Blend these ingredients thoroughly until the mixture is completely smooth and well combined.
- Add Flavorings: Pour in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and white rum if using. Blend again briefly to evenly incorporate the flavors into the mixture.
- Chill the Mixture: Transfer the blended coquito into a pitcher or sealable bottles. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or ideally overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the drink to chill thoroughly.
- Serve with Garnish: Shake the mixture well before serving to re-mix any settled ingredients. Pour into small glasses and garnish each serving with a cinnamon stick and a sprinkle of ground nutmeg or additional cinnamon for a festive touch.
Notes
- The amount of rum can be adjusted or omitted entirely for a non-alcoholic version.
- Chilling overnight enhances the flavor and texture, making the coquito creamier and more flavorful.
- Store leftover coquito in the refrigerator and shake well before each use as ingredients may separate over time.
- Use a high-quality cream of coconut for the best sweetness and coconut flavor.
- This drink is traditionally served cold and makes an excellent dessert beverage.
