What is Authentic Puerto Rican Coquito?

Authentic Puerto Rican Coquito is a traditional coconut-based alcoholic beverage from Puerto Rico, especially popular during the Christmas season. It's often called 'Puerto Rican Eggnog' due to its creamy texture, but it's made with various coconut milks, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and white rum, without eggs.

How long does Coquito last?

When stored properly in sealed bottles in the refrigerator, homemade Authentic Puerto Rican Coquito can last for up to 2-3 weeks. The alcohol acts as a preservative, but fresh ingredients mean it's best enjoyed within that timeframe. Always give it a good shake before serving.

Can I make Coquito without alcohol?

Absolutely! You can easily make a delicious non-alcoholic version of Authentic Puerto Rican Coquito. Simply omit the white rum from the recipe. The resulting 'Virgin Coquito' is a creamy, spiced coconut drink that everyone, including children, can enjoy during the holidays.

What's the difference between Coquito and Eggnog?

While both Coquito and traditional eggnog are creamy, spiced holiday drinks, the key difference lies in their base ingredients. Eggnog is traditionally made with eggs, milk, cream, and often brandy or rum. Authentic Puerto Rican Coquito, on the other hand, is primarily made with coconut milk, cream of coconut, evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and rum, containing no eggs. This gives Coquito a distinct tropical coconut flavor and a lighter, smoother texture.

Authentic Puerto Rican Coquito: 5 Expert Tips for Your Best Holiday Batch

Name: Authentic Puerto Rican Coquito
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Puerto Rican
Ingredients: 1 (13.5 oz) can full-fat coconut milk; 1 (15 oz) can cream of coconut (such as Coco Lopez); 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk; 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk; 1 cup white Puerto Rican rum (or to taste; omit for non-alcoholic); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, plus more for garnish; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, plus more for garnish; Pinch of ground cloves (optional)

Ingredients

1 (13.5 oz) can full-fat coconut milk
1 (15 oz) can cream of coconut (such as Coco Lopez)
1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
1 cup white Puerto Rican rum (or to taste; omit for non-alcoholic)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, plus more for garnish
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, plus more for garnish
Pinch of ground cloves (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Combine all ingredients except the rum in a high-speed blender. Blend on high until the mixture is completely smooth and uniform, about 2-3 minutes. Ensure there are no lumps and the texture is velvety.
Step 2: Add the white rum to the blender. Blend again briefly, just for about 30 seconds, to fully incorporate the rum into the coconut mixture. If making a virgin Coquito, skip this step.
Step 3: Carefully pour the Coquito mixture into clean glass bottles or jars. Seal tightly and refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours, or preferably overnight. Chilling is crucial for the flavors to meld and for the Coquito to thicken slightly.
Step 4: Before serving, give the bottle a good shake to mix any settled ingredients. Pour the chilled Authentic Puerto Rican Coquito into small glasses or shot glasses. Garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or a fresh cinnamon stick.

Notes

For an extra smooth Coquito, you can strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve after blending, though it's often not necessary with a good blender. You can also adjust the amount of rum to your liking. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Drinks
Cuisine: Puerto Rican

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4 oz (120ml)
Calories: 350 kcal
Sugar: 25g
Sodium: 80mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 25mg