Coquito

¡Coquito! In English, little coconut! In my recipe, big coconut! This holiday cocktail is sweet and rum-sassy. Coquito is a traditional Puerto Rican drink similar to eggnog in that it is served through the holiday season. BUT! It is nothing like eggnog. It is better!

COCO for COCONUTS

For as long as I can remember, Coquito has had a feature role at our family holiday celebrations. It does not matter who made the Coquito that year, you can count on someone saying that their recipe is better. You know how it goes...everyone is proud of their coconut concoction.

Most everyone that I have introduced to this creamy, sweet, rum cocktail falls in love at first sip. And, you will too!

What is this Coquito drink anyway?

Coquito, a traditional Puerto Rican holiday drink, has its roots in the island's rich culinary heritage. Its origins trace back to the indigenous Taíno people who inhabited the island before the arrival of the Spanish. The Taínos made a similar beverage called "guarapo," which was a mix of fermented coconut water, sugar, and various spices.

After the Spanish colonization of Puerto Rico, the recipe evolved with the introduction of ingredients like rum, cinnamon, cloves, and condensed milk, reflecting the cultural influences of Spain and Africa. Over time, coquito became a staple during Christmas and other festive occasions, cherished for its creamy texture and rich flavor.

Coquito recipes can vary from family to family, with each household adding its own twist to the classic blend of coconut milk, rum, and spices. It has since become a beloved symbol of Puerto Rican culture, enjoyed not only on the island but also by Puerto Rican communities around the world during the holiday season.

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Making it dairy-free

I do not think I have ever tasted a bad batch. I love this drink and am very happy to say that I made it dairy-free. This cocktail is usually made with sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, cream of coconut, cinnamon, vanilla, and rum. It is served chilled. Typically, in small doses. For my husband—large doses.

My adaptation of Coquito uses sweetened condensed coconut milk, evaporated coconut milk, and full-fat coconut milk. Thanks to all the dairy-free options now available on the market, finding condensed coconut milk and evaporated coconut milk is as easy as going to your local grocery store. This drink is simple to make, which begs the question, why not give it a whirl?!

METHOD

Without further ado, let's get this party started.

Step 1: Blend the Ingredients

In your blender, combine the following:

• 1 can Sweetened Condensed Coconut Milk (Nature's Charm)
• 1 cup Evaporated Coconut Milk (Nature's Charm)
• 1 can Cream of Coconut (Coco Lopez)
• 1 can Coconut Milk (Full Fat)
• 1 tsp Cinnamon
• 1⁄2 tsp Vanilla Extract
• 1⁄4 tsp Salt
• 3⁄4 cup White Rum

Step 2: Blend Until Smooth

Ensure all the ingredients are mixed together thoroughly for a creamy consistency.

Step 3: Transfer to a Bottle

Carefully pour the blended mixture into a glass bottle. Seal tightly.

Step 4: Chill the Mixture

Refrigerate the bottle. Allow it to chill completely for the best flavor.

Step 5: Let it Cure

For a richer, coconut and rum experience, let the mixture sit in the refrigerator for a few days. This curing process allows the flavors to marry perfectly.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

When ready to serve, give the bottle a gentle shake, then pour the Coquito over ice. Enjoy the ultimate Coquito experience!

¡Buen Provecho y Feliz año Nuevo!

Looking for another tasty drink recipe, try my Watermelon Ginger Mint Slushy