Authentic Puerto Rican Coquito Recipe

Coquito is Puerto Rico’s beloved coconut-based holiday drink—rich, creamy, warmly spiced, and kissed with rum. Often called Puerto Rican eggnog, coquito stands proudly on its own with bold coconut flavor, smooth texture, and festive flair. As a food and drink expert, this recipe stays true to tradition while remaining simple enough for home cooks to master on the first try.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, gifting bottles to friends, or celebrating Nochebuena, this authentic coquito recipe delivers classic island flavor in every sip.

What Is Coquito?

Coquito (meaning “little coconut”) is a traditional Puerto Rican cocktail typically enjoyed during Christmas and New Year celebrations. Unlike eggnog, coquito is coconut-forward and often egg-free, made with coconut milk, cream of coconut, sweetened condensed milk, warming spices, and white rum.

Authentic Coquito Ingredients

Serves: About 6–8 | Prep Time: 10 minutes | Chill Time: 2–4 hours (or overnight)

• 1 (15 oz) can cream of coconut

• 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk

• 1 (13.5 oz) can full-fat coconut milk

• 1 to 1½ cups white rum (adjust to taste)

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• Optional: 1 cinnamon stick (for garnish)

  
  

How to Make Traditional Coquito

Step 1: Blend

Add all ingredients to a blender. Blend on high for 30–45 seconds until smooth and fully combined.

Step 2: Taste & Adjust

Taste and adjust sweetness or rum level as desired. Blend again briefly if needed.

Step 3: Chill

Transfer to a glass bottle or pitcher. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours—overnight is best for flavors to meld.

Step 4: Serve

Shake or stir well before serving. Pour into small glasses and garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg or a cinnamon stick.

Expert Tips for the Best Coquito

• Use full-fat coconut milk for maximum creaminess

• Don’t skip chilling—cold coquito tastes smoother and richer

• White rum is traditional, but spiced or aged rum adds depth

• Always shake before serving as natural separation occurs

Coquito Variations You’ll Love

• Egg Coquito: Blend in 1–2 pasteurized egg yolks for extra richness

• Vegan Coquito: Use sweetened condensed coconut milk

• Chocolate Coquito: Add 2 tablespoons cocoa powder or chocolate syrup

• Pumpkin Spice Coquito: Add ¼ cup pumpkin purée + pumpkin spice blend

• Coffee Coquito: Add ¼ cup strong espresso or coffee liqueur

How Long Does Coquito Last?

Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, coquito lasts up to 5 days. Shake well before each use. Always keep chilled.

Is Coquito Served Warm or Cold?

Traditionally, coquito is served cold. This enhances its creamy texture and balances the rum and spice flavors beautifully.

Coquito is more than a holiday drink—it’s a celebration of Puerto Rican culture, family, and tradition. This authentic recipe delivers the perfect balance of coconut richness, warming spice, and smooth rum, making it a must-have for your festive table.

✨ Salud y felices fiestas! ✨