Coquito is a rich and creamy drink often referred to as "Puerto Rican eggnog", made primarily from coconut milk, sweetened condensed milk, rum and spices. This is an easy version of the recipe.
Coquito Recipe
Are you looking for a new and exciting drink to serve for the holidays? Look no further than Puerto Rican Coquito.
You, and your guests, will love this change up to your typical eggnog with coconut flavors you'll come back to again and again.
What is Coquito?
Coquito is a thick and creamy coconut-flavored drink from Puerto Rico popularly served during the holiday season. It is often referred to as "Puerto Rican Eggnog or Coconut Nog", though I've also seen it referred to as "Puerto Rican Moonshine."
It is traditionally made from ripe coconuts along with evaporated milk, cream of coconut, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, and rum, and seasoned with spices like cinnamon, vanilla, and nutmeg.
Coquito means "little coconut" in Spanish, signaling the dominant flavor of the drink.
This is a simpler version that uses canned coconut milk and skips the eggs, very easy to make at home.
The flavors are perfect for making your holidays festive, a great cocktail to serve during the Christmas season or the Feast of the Patron Saints.
Let's talk about how to make coquito, shall we?
Coquito Ingredients
The full ingredients list with measurements is listed in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk.
- Coconut Cream. Sometimes labeled cream of coconut.
- Coconut Milk. Use full fat coconut milk for more flavor.
- Evaporated Milk.
- Rum. Use your favorite rum. Recipes vary from white rum to dark rum to spiced rum. Use 151 proof Puerto Rican rum to really get the party going!
- Cinnamon.
How to Make Coquito - the Recipe Method
Add all of the ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth.
Transfer to a container, then refrigerate for 1 day to chill and let the flavors mingle. I like to use a large glass bottle.
Serve chilled in a glass with a few dashes of ground cinnamon on top. I like to add a cinnamon stick to make it extra festive.
Boom! Done! Your coquito is ready to serve. So simple, and so delicious! Your guests are going to rave about this cocktail long after they've gone home.
Recipe Tips & Notes
- There are as many coquitos variations as their are households in Puerto Rico. Some common additions include egg yolks, vanilla extract, clove, nutmeg, and salt.
- If your coconut coquito is too thick, add in a bit of water to thin it out.
- Skip the rum for a booze-free drink that is still delicious.
Storage
How long does coquito last? Coquito will last 1 month in the refrigerator in a sealed container, though it is better when served fresh.
That's it, my friends. I hope you enjoy this Puerto Rican coquito. Let me know if you make it. I'd love to hear how it turned out for you and how everyone liked it!
Try Some of My Other Popular Recipes
Try Some of My Other Popular Drink Recipes
- It's hard to beat the classics, like my Spicy Margarita Recipe, Spicy Bloody Mary Recipe, my Michelada Recipe, or my refreshing Paloma Cocktail Recipe.
Got any questions? Ask away! I’m happy to help. If you enjoy this recipe, I hope you’ll leave a comment with some STARS. Also, please share it on social media. Don’t forget to tag us at #ChiliPepperMadness. I’ll be sure to share! Thanks! — Mike H.
Coquito Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 ounces)
- 1 can coconut cream (14 ounces) or cream of coconut
- 1 can coconut milk (14 ounces)
- 1 can evaporated milk (12 ounces)
- 1.5 cup rum or to taste (use your favorite)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon or to taste + more for garnish
Instructions
- Add all of the ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth.
- Transfer to a container, then refrigerate for 1 day to chill and let the flavors mingle.
- Serve chilled in a glass with a few dashes of ground cinnamon on top.
Nutrition Information
Kelly says
Sounds very good, I tried a couple recipes but looking for a simple one. This has no vanilla? How long does it last after it is made? There are so many different answers out there, it's confusing. Thanks so much.
Mike Hultquist says
I love it, Kelly. You can add vanilla if you'd like. I'm happy without it. Maybe a teaspoon or 2, to preference. There is storage information in the post that you might have missed. "How long does coquito last? Coquito will last 1 month in the refrigerator in a sealed container, though it is better when served fresh." I hope this helps.
Sally says
Yup, I made this and Yup it's wonderful. I'm thinking to try it in a milkshake, Yummy
Mike Hultquist says
Thanks, Sally! I want this as a milkshake, too! Nice!
Gloria says
Mike - Every single Puerto Rican recipe you've shared with us is on the money!! I Want to share what my abuelito adds to this recipe: when in the fridge overnight, add a star anise pod, an inch of fresh ginger, and a couple of cinnamon sticks. They each add a subtle flavor that makes people wonder what else they're tasting. Delicioso! Thanks again and Feliz Navidad to you and yours.
Mike Hultquist says
OUTSTANDING! Thanks, Gloria! Please tell your abuelito Mike from Chili Pepper Madness said THANKS for the tip! I love that.
Suzie says
This sounds amazing and I can't wait to make it. Thank you for sharing this recipe, Mike!
Mike Hultquist says
Enjoy, Suzie!
Lori says
Hi Mike, this sounds delicious! I do have a question... is the coconut cream sweetened or unsweetened? Just want to double check before I buy ingredients
Mike Hultquist says
Hi, Lori. Use "unsweetened", as the condensed milk is sweetened, though either will work, depending on how sweet you like it. Enjoy!!