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Glasses of creamy, festive Coquito garnished with cinnamon sticks, perfect for holiday celebrations.

Classic Puerto Rican Coquito Recipe

Indulge in the creamy, rich, and spiced flavors of Puerto Rico with this authentic coquito recipe. A traditional coconut-based holiday beverage, it’s the perfect festive drink for any gathering.

  • Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (including chilling)
  • Yield: 8-10 servings (approx. 2 liters) 1x

Ingredients

Scale

1 (12 ounce) can evaporated milk
1 (15 ounce) can cream of coconut (such as Coco Lopez)
1 (13.5 ounce) can full-fat coconut milk
1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1 1/2 cups white Puerto Rican rum (or to taste, adjust for desired strength)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, plus more for garnish
Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)
Cinnamon sticks, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large blender, combine the evaporated milk, cream of coconut, coconut milk, and sweetened condensed milk. Blend on high speed for 1-2 minutes until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and smooth.
Step 2: Add the white rum, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and optional pinch of ground nutmeg to the blender. Blend again for another 1-2 minutes, ensuring all the spices are fully incorporated and there are no visible clumps.
Step 3: Taste the coquito and adjust for sweetness or rum content as desired. If you prefer it sweeter, add an additional tablespoon of sweetened condensed milk and blend. If you like a stronger drink, add more rum, a splash at a time.
Step 4: Carefully pour the coquito into clean glass bottles or a large pitcher. If using, add a cinnamon stick to each bottle or pitcher for added flavor infusion and visual appeal.
Step 5: Refrigerate the coquito for at least 4 hours, but ideally overnight (or up to 2-3 days), to allow the flavors to meld and chill thoroughly. The longer it chills, the more pronounced and harmonious the flavors will become.
Step 6: Before serving, give the coquito a good shake or stir to reincorporate any settled ingredients. Pour into small serving glasses, garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon and/or a fresh cinnamon stick, and enjoy this festive coquito recipe chilled.

Notes

For best results, prepare coquito at least a day in advance to allow the flavors to fully develop. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Beverage
  • Cuisine: Puerto Rican

Keywords: coquito recipe, Puerto Rican coquito, holiday drink, coconut drink, Christmas drink, rum cocktail, eggnog alternative

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