Save This creamy non-alcoholic Coquito mocktail delivers traditional Puerto Rican holiday comfort without the rum so everyone at the table can enjoy its coconut-rich sweetness spiced with cinnamon and vanilla. I reach for this family-friendly drink every year and its frosty texture and festive aroma have made it a highlight of our holiday gatherings
I first started making this when my cousins missed out on the original coquito and it instantly brought everyone together
Ingredients
- full-fat coconut milk: gives signature creaminess look for cans without extra thickeners for the best consistency
- evaporated milk: adds richness and balances coconut’s heaviness choose brands with no added sugars for best flavor
- sweetened condensed milk: brings silky sweetness select the classic kind for optimal texture
- pure vanilla extract: enhances depth of flavor use real vanilla over imitation for true warmth
- ground cinnamon: infuses iconic spice aroma fresh ground is most fragrant
- ground nutmeg: amplifies the comforting holiday flavor a little goes a long way
- pinch of ground cloves: optional but adds a subtle warmth and complexity
- ground cinnamon or cinnamon sticks for garnish: provides a visual and aromatic finish
Instructions
- Prepare the Blender:
- Add all three milks coconut evaporated and condensed to your blender Make sure to scrape every bit from the cans so nothing is wasted
- Incorporate Spices and Flavorings:
- Add vanilla extract ground cinnamon ground nutmeg and a pinch of ground cloves if using These are the backbone of that unmistakable coquito character
- Blend Until Smooth:
- Secure the lid and blend for about thirty seconds on medium to high speed until the mixture is creamy and fully homogeneous Scrape down the blender sides as needed to prevent clumps of spice
- Taste and Adjust Consistency:
- Stop and taste your base If the drink is a bit thick add a splash of cold water or a small amount of evaporated milk to loosen it up Adjust the spices if you want a stronger flavor
- Chill Thoroughly:
- Pour your blended mixture into a pitcher or jar Seal and refrigerate for at least two hours so flavors meld and the coquito gets icy cold This is key for authentic texture
- Shake or Stir Before Serving:
- When you are ready to serve give the mocktail a good shake or stir because spices can settle during chilling
- Garnish and Enjoy:
- Pour into small glasses and sprinkle each with ground cinnamon or add a cinnamon stick for a festive touch
Save My favorite part of this recipe is swirling the cinnamon on top and catching that first whiff of coconut and spice It reminds me of helping my grandmother garnish her traditional coquito for our whole neighborhood
Storage Tips
Store leftovers tightly covered in the fridge for up to five days Just give it a shake before serving as the spices like to settle at the bottom For making batches ahead you can freeze portions in mason jars and thaw in the fridge overnight
Ingredient Substitutions
For a dairy-free version use canned coconut evaporated and condensed milks found in most specialty or international aisles You can also try oat milk condensed or vegan options for a different texture For less sweetness reduce the condensed milk and add extra coconut milk
Serving Suggestions
Serve your coquito mocktail chilled in small glasses or festive shot cups Top with a cinnamon stick or even a sprinkle of toasted coconut For a party setup create a toppings station with shredded coconut nutmeg and freshly grated orange zest
Cultural Context
Coquito originated in Puerto Rico as a Christmas and New Year s holiday tradition Passed down through generations the drink combines island ingredients with festive warmth Making it non alcoholic means even more people can savor that heritage and hospitality
Seasonal Adaptations
add a pinch of orange or lemon zest for a bright twist in warmer months incorporate pumpkin spice or apple pie spice for autumn gatherings blend with a handful of ice cubes for a frozen summer treat
Success Stories
A friend once brought this mocktail to a potluck and it was the hit of the party several guests asked for the recipe and one even said it tasted better than the boozy original Children and adults alike love having their own glass of this creamy holiday treat
Freezer Meal Conversion
Prep your mocktail in advance and freeze in single serve portions Mason jars work great and ensure a quick festive refreshment all season Just shake and serve directly from the fridge no hassle
Save This creamy coquito mocktail brings everyone together at the holiday table Rich festive and impossible to resist Enjoy with family and friends in every season
Kitchen Questions
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the evaporated and condensed milk with plant-based alternatives to create a dairy-free version while maintaining creaminess.
- → How do I adjust sweetness?
Reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk to taste or add more coconut milk for a less-sweet drink.
- → What can I use for garnish?
Top each serving with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or a cinnamon stick to enhance aroma and presentation.
- → Should the mocktail be served cold?
Yes, chilling the beverage well in the refrigerator brings out its silky texture and rich flavors.
- → Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?
All listed ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this mocktail a safe choice for gluten-sensitive guests.
- → Which tools are needed?
You will need a blender, measuring cups and spoons, a pitcher or jar for chilling, and serving glasses.