If you have never heard of Puerto Rican Coquito around the holidays, then you are surely missing out! I was first introduced to Coquito by my husband’s family – celebrating Noche Buena (Christmas Eve) at his aunt’s house and was handed a cup of coquito following our meal. I thought it was egg nog (which I am not a fan of), but when my husband (then boyfriend) told me “just try it”, I did and man…..this little drink was AMAZING!
Coquito is Spanish for “Little Coconut”. It is a traditional Christmas drink that originated in Puerto Rico but is found throughout the Caribbean. Some people compare Coquito to Spanish eggnog – but it is NOT eggnog. It is a coconut-based alcoholic beverage and in my opinion kicks eggnog’s butt.
There is no cooking involved, just mixing and chilling. Which is another great part of this drink – it is incredibly easy to make.
Alright, enough of the background. Let’s get into the recipe!
Puerto Rican Coquito Holiday Drink Recipe
Ingredients
2 Cups Bacardi Rum (you can use any white rum, but when making a Puerto Rican drink, in my opinion you have to use Bacardi)
1 (14 oz) can Cream of Coconut
2 (12 oz) cans Evaporated Milk
1 (14 oz) can Sweetened Condensed Milk
1 (13.5 oz) can Coconut Milk
1/4 Tsp Cinnamon
1 Tsp Vanilla Extract
Cinnamon Sticks for Garnish
Directions
In a blender, add evaporated milk, cream of coconut, coconut milk, sweetened condensed milk, rum (if using), vanilla extract and ground cinnamon. Blend on high until mixture is well combined, 1-2 minutes.
Pour the mixture into glass bottles an cover tightly. Transfer them to refrigerator and chill until they are cold.
To serve your Coquito, shake the bottle well to combine. Pour coquito into small glasses. You can garnish with shaved coconut on the rims of the glass, a dash of cinnamon or cinnamon sticks, if desired.
Coquito can be kept in the refrigerator for 4-6 months if it is in an airtight container. But trust me, I highly doubt there will be any leftover! Coquito also makes a great Hostess gift when going to a family or friend’s house for a holiday party.
Let me know in the comments if your family makes Coquito for the holidays! If you need a recipe to go with the Coquito, try my Carne Guisada – you won’t be disappointed! Check out my Pinterest for more recipes & ideas! Enjoy everyone! Xx
