Traditional Puerto Rican Coquito

πŸ•’ Prep: 5 min
πŸ”₯ Cook:
🍽 Serves: 8

If you’re yearning for a taste of the Caribbean during the festive season, look no further than traditional Puerto Rican Coquito. This creamy, coconut-based drink brings warmth and joy in a bottle, perfect for celebrating with friends and family.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Simple ingredients, big flavors.
  • Perfect balance of creamy and spiced.
  • Quick to prepare, ideal for gatherings.
  • A nostalgic taste of Puerto Rico's holiday traditions.

Ingredients

1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
1 can (15 oz) cream of coconut
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1 cup white rum

Ingredients Explained

Evaporated milk lends a rich, slightly caramelized flavor that deepens the overall taste. Sweetened condensed milk adds a luscious sweetness that pairs beautifully with the spices. The star of the show, coconut milk, provides a natural creaminess, while cream of coconut intensifies the coconut flavor and adds a silky texture. Vanilla extract enhances all the flavors with its warm notes. The ground cinnamon and ground nutmeg infuse the drink with holiday spice, and white rum adds that traditional kick, making Coquito the life of the party.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use high-quality white rum for the best taste.
  • Shake the bottle well before serving to mix any settled spices.
  • For a thicker texture, chill for a longer period.

Detailed Instructions

Start by gathering all your ingredients and setting up your blender. Pour the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, coconut milk, and cream of coconut into the blender. These form the creamy base of your Coquito.

Next, add the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. These spices will give your Coquito that unmistakable holiday aroma and taste. Blend everything on high until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Once blended, stir in the white rum. You can adjust the amount to taste, but a cup gives it a nice, traditional punch. Transfer the mixture into glass bottles, sealing them tightly to keep the flavors fresh.

Refrigerate your Coquito for at least 4 hours. This chilling time is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a smooth and delicious drink.

Simplified Instructions

1. In a blender, combine evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, coconut milk, and cream of coconut.
2. Add the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg.
3. Blend on high until all ingredients are well combined and smooth.
4. Stir in the white rum.
5. Transfer the mixture into glass bottles and seal them tightly.
6. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Coquito is best served chilled in small glasses. For a festive touch, garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top. It pairs delightfully with holiday cookies or a slice of fruitcake, enhancing the warm, cozy flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Coquito without alcohol?
Absolutely! Simply omit the rum for a non-alcoholic version that's just as delicious.
How long does Coquito keep in the fridge?
It stays fresh for up to a month if kept sealed and refrigerated.
Can I use dark rum instead of white rum?
Yes, but it will alter the taste slightly, giving it a richer, more robust flavor.

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