5 Easy Coquito Recipes for Holiday Cheer

Coquito, Puerto Rico's festive drink, is the star of many holiday celebrations. This delightful coconut-based beverage, similar to eggnog, has garnered fans worldwide for its rich, creamy texture and unique flavor profile. As you gear up for the holiday season, mastering a few coquito recipes can add a touch of exotic cheer to your festivities. Here are five easy coquito recipes that can transform any holiday gathering into a memorable Puerto Rican-inspired party.

The Traditional Coquito Recipe

Starting with the classic, this is the coquito recipe that many households in Puerto Rico swear by:

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
• 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon ground ginger
• 2-4 tablespoons white rum (optional)

Preparation:

1. In a blender, combine all the ingredients except the rum.
2. Blend until well mixed.
3. Pour into a glass bottle and chill thoroughly in the fridge for at least 2 hours.
4. If using, add the rum just before serving, adjusting to taste.

🌴 Note: For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the rum.

Coquito with Coconut Cream

This recipe adds a thicker, creamier consistency to the traditional coquito:

• 1 can (15 oz) coconut cream
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
• 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
• ¹⁄₄ cup sugar
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 4 egg yolks (optional for a richer texture)
• ¹⁄₂ cup white rum
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Preparation:

1. In a saucepan, combine coconut cream, coconut milk, evaporated milk, sugar, and cinnamon sticks. Heat gently, stirring to dissolve the sugar.
2. Once warm, remove from heat, cover, and let it steep for an hour.
3. Remove cinnamon sticks, then temper the egg yolks by slowly adding some of the warm milk mixture, whisking constantly.
4. Combine with the rest of the mixture, cook on low heat, stirring until slightly thickened.
5. Let it cool, then blend with rum and vanilla extract.
6. Chill for at least 4 hours before serving.

Vegan Coquito Delight

For those who prefer plant-based options, this vegan coquito recipe is creamy and indulgent:

• 2 cans (13.5 oz each) full-fat coconut milk
• 1 can (13.5 oz) unsweetened coconut cream
• 1 cup almond milk or any plant-based milk
• ³⁄₄ cup sugar or sweetener of choice
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¹⁄₄ cup coconut rum (optional)

Preparation:

1. Shake or whisk the coconut milk cans to combine cream and water.
2. Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.
3. Strain through a fine mesh sieve to remove any lumps.
4. Chill for at least 2 hours. Add rum if desired just before serving.

Coquito with Rice Milk

Switching up the base, this recipe uses rice milk for a lighter version of coquito:

• 2 cups rice milk
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
• ¹⁄₄ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¹⁄₄ cup white rum (optional)

Preparation:

1. Mix all ingredients in a pitcher or large bowl until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
3. Stir before serving. If using rum, add it before serving or let guests add their own.

Coquito with Pumpkin Puree

Adding a Thanksgiving twist, this recipe incorporates pumpkin for a cozy, seasonal touch:

• 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¹⁄₄ cup dark rum (optional)

Preparation:

1. Blend the pumpkin puree, coconut milk, sweetened condensed milk, and evaporated milk until smooth.
2. Add the pumpkin pie spice and vanilla extract, blend again.
3. If using rum, pour it in now.
4. Chill for several hours before serving, allowing flavors to meld.

In conclusion, these five coquito recipes offer a variety of tastes and textures, ensuring there's a perfect match for every palate at your holiday gathering. Whether you stick to tradition or venture into innovative twists, coquito is sure to spread holiday cheer. Each recipe showcases the beautiful diversity of Puerto Rican culture, bringing a taste of the tropics to your festive celebrations.

Can I make Coquito without rum?

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Yes, you can easily make a non-alcoholic version by simply omitting the rum from any of the recipes. It will still be delicious and festive!

How long does Coquito last?

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If stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, Coquito can last up to 3 days. The longer it sits, the flavors will meld together even more!

Can Coquito be served warm?

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While traditionally served chilled, some people enjoy a warm version of Coquito during the cold winter months. Just gently heat it on the stove or in the microwave, but be careful not to boil it.