Puerto Rican Coquito

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Creamy, spiced, and brimming with coconut flavor, Puerto Rican Coquito is a holiday tradition that brings warmth to every gathering. This rich coconut-based eggnog alternative is beloved across Puerto Rico and among Latinx families worldwide. It’s a festive drink that’s indulgent and comforting, perfect for sipping with friends or gifting in beautiful bottles.

Coquito is like a tropical embrace in a glass. It blends coconut milk, sweetened condensed milk, and hints of cinnamon and vanilla, sometimes with a generous pour of white rum for that celebratory kick. If you’ve never tried it, you’re in for a creamy, dreamy treat that captures the spirit of the holidays in every sip.

Why You’ll Love This Puerto Rican Coquito

This recipe is quick, easy, and doesn’t require cooking or egg tempering. It comes together in a blender in minutes and chills beautifully overnight. You’ll love how versatile it is: you can make it with or without alcohol, add extra spice, or even infuse it with coffee or chocolate.

It’s perfect for holiday parties, hostess gifts, or just keeping in your fridge as a cozy nightcap. Plus, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

What Kind of Rum Should I Use for Coquito?

Traditionally, Puerto Rican white rum is the go-to choice, and for good reason. Brands like Don Q or Bacardí blend seamlessly into the creamy base without overpowering it. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using spiced rum or even coconut-flavored rum for a fun twist.

You can also make a non-alcoholic version that’s just as delicious, especially for family-friendly holiday gatherings. Just skip the rum and add a little extra vanilla or coconut extract to round out the flavor.

Ingredients for the Puerto Rican Coquito

Making Coquito starts with a handful of pantry staples. Each ingredient plays a special role in creating that velvety, sweet, and warming flavor we all love.

Coconut milk brings the tropical base that makes Coquito distinct. It’s smooth, creamy, and adds a subtle nuttiness.

Cream of coconut gives the drink its rich sweetness and thickness. This is not the same as coconut milk, and brands like Coco López are classic for Coquito.

Sweetened condensed milk adds sweetness and enhances the creamy texture without the need for eggs.

Evaporated milk helps balance the richness and gives it a silkier finish.

White rum adds that iconic Coquito kick. If you’re making it virgin, you can replace this with extra coconut or vanilla extract.

Ground cinnamon gives the drink its cozy, spiced flavor that makes it perfect for the holidays.

Vanilla extract rounds everything out with a soft, aromatic note.

How To Make the Puerto Rican Coquito

Step 1: Blend Until Creamy

Add the coconut milk, cream of coconut, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, rum, cinnamon, and vanilla extract to a blender. Blend on high for 1-2 minutes until everything is fully combined and smooth.

Step 2: Taste and Adjust

Give it a quick taste. Want it sweeter? Add a splash more condensed milk. Need more spice? Sprinkle in extra cinnamon. Adjust the rum if you want it stronger or lighter.

Step 3: Chill and Infuse

Pour the Coquito into a glass bottle or mason jar and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best. This gives all the flavors time to deepen and mellow.

Step 4: Shake and Serve

Before serving, shake the bottle well. Serve chilled in small glasses, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a cinnamon stick.

How to Store and Serve Puerto Rican Coquito

This recipe makes about 6 to 8 servings depending on the glass size. Because it’s rich, a small glass goes a long way.

Coquito should be stored in the refrigerator in a sealed bottle or jar. It will stay good for up to 5 days if it has rum, or about 3 days without. Just make sure to give it a good shake before pouring, as some separation is normal.

Serve it ice cold for the best experience. A cinnamon stick makes a festive stirrer and adds an extra punch of spice.

What to Serve With Coquito?

Spiced Shortbread Cookies

The warm spices in the cookies pair perfectly with the creamy coconut notes of Coquito.

Mini Flan Cups

These custards are a traditional Puerto Rican dessert and complement Coquito beautifully.

Rum Balls

Go full-on festive and double down on the rum with some chewy, cocoa-rich rum balls.

Coconut Macaroons

Keep the coconut theme going strong. Their chewy texture balances Coquito’s smoothness.

Roast Pork (Pernil)

Coquito isn’t just for dessert. Enjoy it alongside a savory, garlicky Puerto Rican roast pork to round out a celebratory meal.

Cinnamon Sugar Churros

Dip a churro into Coquito and thank us later. It’s like dipping a cookie into milk, only better.

Tres Leches Cake

This creamy cake with its milky base is a delightful dessert partner to your Coquito.

Want More Holiday Drink Ideas?

If you loved this cozy and creamy Coquito, here are a few more recipes that will bring festive vibes to your table:

• Try the Creamy Mushroom Sauce for Steak if you’re pairing your Coquito with a hearty dinner.
• The Air Fryer Pizza Toast makes a great appetizer or snack with a glass of chilled Coquito.
• Don’t miss the Small Batch Pistachio Cream Cinnamon Rolls for an indulgent brunch moment.
• Need a side? Easy Chicken Fried Rice might not be traditional, but it’s comfort food at its finest.
• For a sweet pairing, check out the Peanut Butter Cornflake Cookies.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest holiday drink board so you can revisit it every festive season.

Let us know if you give this traditional Puerto Rican Coquito a try. Did you go bold with extra rum or keep it kid-friendly? Share your twist on it below!

Explore more homemade creations and cozy drinks on Luna Meals on Pinterest and uncover new ways to make your holidays memorable.

Conclusion

Puerto Rican Coquito is more than a holiday drink. It’s a toast to tradition, family, and the flavors that bring people together. Whether you serve it with dessert or simply enjoy a chilled glass after dinner, it never fails to spark joy. Now that you know how easy it is to make, it’s sure to become a staple at your holiday table.

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