Coquito

Often compared to eggnog, coquito is the rum-spiked coconut drink that no Christmas celebration in Puerto Rico is complete without. This holiday cocktail packs a flavorful punch; however, no two abuelas make coquito exactly the same way. Use it for a classic version, then experiment to create your ideal coquito. Here’s everything you need to know:

What People Are Saying:
“SO GOOD. I always want to give eggnog a chance, but usually it disappoints me. This coquito is what I'll be making every holiday season now!” - ann2554

What Is Coquito?

Coquito is a traditional Puerto Rican cocktail usually served around Christmas. Made with cream of coconut, rum, vanilla, warming spices, and occasionally an egg yolk (like in this recipe), this creamy drink is traditionally served cold—make sure and let it chill in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve.

How To Make Coquito

INGREDIENTS

• Cream Of Coconut: This is one of the key differences between coquito and eggnog—coconut. Make sure you’re using cream of coconut, and not coconut milk!
• Evaporated Milk: This is what makes our drink creamy and oh so rich.
• Rum: As far as the rum goes, I prefer a white rum, but a spiced rum would also work perfectly here. Use your favorite brand, or check out our favorite rum brands. I usually go for around 1 cup, but if you prefer it a bit boozier, feel free and up that!
• Egg Yolk: The inclusion of an egg yolk often sparks a passionate debate. In my family? That yolk is non-negotiable, so I’ve included it in this recipe.
• Cinnamon & Nutmeg: The combination of ground cinnamon and freshly grated nutmeg nails the warm and cozy vibe, but feel free to adjust the amounts based on taste.
• Vanilla Extract: A little bit of pure vanilla extract adds that sweet, floral flavor.
  

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

You’ll need a blender for this recipe, so grab your trusty one, and add in the cream of coconut, milk, rum, egg yolk (if using), ground cinnamon, vanilla, and nutmeg. Blend for a couple minutes, or until well combined. Once combined, give it a taste, and add more seasonings or rum if it’s not boozy enough for your taste.

Once it’s to your liking, add the coquito to a large container with a lid. Cover and refrigerate until it is well chilled, at least 2 hours, but you can go up to 4 days.

When you’re ready to serve, stir it well to disperse all of the cinnamon. Pour into cups, then garnish with cinnamon sticks and some more freshly grated nutmeg.

The full list of ingredients and instructions can be found in the recipe below.

Recipe Tips

• What's the difference between coquito and eggnog? While these two holiday drinks might seem similar—with coquito often being referred to as the Puerto Rican version of eggnog—these two drinks have their share of differences. While eggnog has a base of heavy cream and egg yolks and is occasionally spiked with whiskey or rum, coquito always includes rum and coconut. If you're usually a staple eggnog household every Christmas, try out coquito this year for a boozy shake-up—you might never look back!
• Variations and substitutions. Once you’ve got the basic recipe down, you can really experiment with this classic drink as you please. Everyone has their own beloved coquito recipe—create yours! Switch up the kind of rum, adjust the spices, or omit the egg yolk if that’s your preference.
  

Make Ahead & Storage

Homemade coquito can last up to 4 days after it’s made, stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The eggs may begin to separate as time goes on, so make sure to stir well before serving.