Coquito Puerto Rican Coconut Eggnog

Want a holiday drink that feels like a tropical hug? Coquito is the one. It’s Puerto Rican coconut eggnog, and it’s pure creamy magic.

It’s rich, sweet, and full of coconut, cinnamon, and cozy spices. Way creamier than regular eggnog. And yep, a little rum makes it even better.

Perfect for Christmas parties, cozy nights, or just sipping by the tree. It’s easy, festive, and super special.

Let’s blend it up! Grab your coconut milk and spices—holiday cheer is just one sip away.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Taste: Coquito delivers the smooth richness of coconut milk combined with aromatic cinnamon and warm vanilla. It’s a tradition in a glass.
• Perfect for Gatherings: It’s easy to batch-make, so it’s great for holiday parties, gifts, or family get-togethers.
• Simple Ingredients: No complicated steps — just blend, chill, and serve.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Coquito tastes even better after sitting in the fridge overnight as the flavors meld beautifully.
• Customizable: You can adjust the amount of rum, sweetness, or spice to fit your own taste.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Chill Time: 4 hours minimum (overnight is better)
• Total Time: About 4 hours 10 minutes

Servings:
This recipe makes about 8 cups (about 10–12 servings depending on glass size). You can easily double or triple the batch if you’re hosting a party.

Difficulty:
Extremely easy — just blend and chill. No stove required.

Required Kitchen Tools

• High-powered blender or large mixing bowl with whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Fine mesh strainer (optional, for a smoother texture)
• Glass bottles or mason jars for storing
• Funnel (optional, for easier pouring)

Ingredients for Coquito

Here’s what you’ll need to create the creamiest, dreamiest Coquito (exact measurements in the recipe card at the end):

• Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds luscious thickness and just the right amount of sweetness.
• Cream of Coconut: (such as Coco Lopez) — gives Coquito its signature creamy coconut flavor.
• Evaporated Milk: Balances out the sweetness with a light, creamy base.
• Coconut Milk: Reinforces the coconut flavor while adding a silky texture.
• Vanilla Extract or Vanilla Bean: Deepens the overall warmth and rounds out the sweetness.
• Cinnamon Sticks: Infuses the Coquito with a warm, slightly spicy aroma as it chills.
• Freshly Grated Nutmeg: Adds a cozy, nutty spice that’s traditional in eggnog-style drinks.
• Puerto Rican Rum: (like Don Q or Bacardi) — gives it the festive kick Coquito is famous for.
• Optional Garnish: Ground cinnamon or extra grated nutmeg for sprinkling before serving.

Variations for Coquito

• Alcohol-Free Version: Simply skip the rum for a family-friendly drink everyone can enjoy.
• Extra Thick: Add an additional 1/2 can of sweetened condensed milk for a super thick Coquito.
• Spice It Up: Add a tiny pinch of ground cloves or allspice for a slightly deeper flavor.
• Café Coquito: Blend in 1/4 cup brewed espresso or strong coffee for a coffee-flavored twist.
• Vegan Coquito: Use coconut condensed milk and coconut evaporated milk to make it completely dairy-free.

How to Make Coquito Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Blend the Base

In a large blender, combine the sweetened condensed milk, cream of coconut, evaporated milk, coconut milk, and vanilla extract (or vanilla bean seeds). Blend on high for about 1 minute until everything is smooth and fully combined.

Tip: If you don’t have a blender big enough, you can whisk everything together in a large bowl until well blended.

2. Add the Rum and Spices

Pour in the rum. Then grate a little fresh nutmeg directly into the blender (about 1/2 teaspoon), and drop in one or two cinnamon sticks. Blend again for about 30 seconds just to mix.

Optional: If you prefer a smoother drink without any spice flecks, you can strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a large pitcher or measuring cup.

3. Chill Thoroughly

Transfer the Coquito into clean glass bottles or mason jars. Seal them tightly. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to let all the flavors marry and the drink thicken.

Pro Tip: Coquito gets even better after 24-48 hours in the fridge. The cinnamon stick infuses the drink with warm spice over time.

4. Shake Before Serving

The coconut fats may naturally separate as the Coquito chills — that’s normal! Just give the bottle a good shake before pouring.

Serving and Decoration

How to Serve Coquito

• Glassware: Serve Coquito chilled in small glasses, like cordial glasses, old-fashioned glasses, or small mason jars.
• Garnish: Lightly dust the top with ground cinnamon or freshly grated nutmeg right before serving for a festive touch.
• Optional Extras: You can add a cinnamon stick to each glass or a little sprinkle of toasted coconut on top for extra flair.

Storing Coquito

• In the Fridge: Store in airtight glass bottles or jars for up to 4-5 days. Because of the dairy and coconut milk, it should be kept cold at all times.
• Shelf Life: Some traditional recipes without eggs can last up to a week, but for the freshest taste and food safety, it’s best enjoyed within 4-5 days.
• Freezing Coquito: You can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and shake very well before serving (the texture may slightly change but still tastes delicious).

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Use Good Quality Rum: A smooth Puerto Rican rum like Don Q or Bacardi makes a big difference. Harsh rum can overpower the creamy flavors.
• Chill for the Full Time: Coquito needs at least 4 hours to thicken and for the flavors to really develop. Overnight is even better.
• Taste and Adjust: Before chilling, taste the Coquito and adjust. Add more rum for a stronger kick or a little more sweetened condensed milk for extra richness.
• Don’t Skip the Shake: Always shake the bottle before serving to bring the drink back together after chilling.
• Make It Festive: Decorate your serving glasses with a cinnamon-sugar rim or a mini cinnamon stick for extra holiday charm.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving (about 6 oz)
Calories	290–320
Total Fat	12–15g
Saturated Fat	10–12g
Cholesterol	20–30mg
Sodium	90–110mg
Total Carbohydrates	25–30g
Sugars	20–25g
Protein	3–5g
Alcohol Content	~5–7% ABV (depending on amount of rum used)

Note: Nutrition may vary slightly based on exact brands and how much rum you add.

Coquito FAQs

How strong is Coquito?

It depends on how much rum you add. A standard recipe usually yields a mild-to-moderate strength similar to wine (about 5–7% ABV). You can adjust it to your taste.

Can I make Coquito without alcohol?

Absolutely. Just skip the rum. You’ll still get all the rich coconut flavor without the kick.

How long does Coquito last in the fridge?

About 4–5 days if properly refrigerated. Always keep it cold, and shake before serving.

What’s the best rum for Coquito?

A good quality white or gold Puerto Rican rum like Don Q Cristal, Bacardi Superior, or Bacardi Gold works beautifully.

Can I freeze Coquito?

Yes! Freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and shake well before serving.

Conclusion

Coquito isn’t just a drink — it’s a celebration in a glass. Every sip brings the cozy warmth of the Caribbean straight to your table, whether it’s Christmas Eve or a sunny weekend gathering. It’s creamy, rich, and filled with all the tropical spice you could want.
Make a batch, share it with friends and family, and let this traditional Puerto Rican treat become a part of your holiday memories.