Non-Alcoholic Coquito (Puerto Rican Eggnog)

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Coquito aka Puerto Rican Egg Nog is a creamy, thick festive drink that is usually enjoyed from Thanksgiving to Three King's Day on January 6th. While traditionally made with rum, this version of the coquito is non-alcoholic so the whole family can enjoy!

Looking for an alternative to eggnog? Looking for an authentic ethnic drink? Look no further than to the Coquito. It comes from Puerto Rico with Spanish ties.

This drink is a great way to celebrate the holidays. It can be made with or without alcohol so kids can enjoy too. With a few ingredients, you can whip this festive drink up in no time!

If you are looking for even more festive non-alcoholic holiday drinks try these: Eggnog Protein Shake, Dairy Free Peppermint Mocha Frappuccino and this Easy Spicy Hot Cocoa.

HISTORY OF THE COQUITO

Coquito means "little coconut" in Spanish. There are several theories on the origin of coquito. It was published in Puerto Rican cookbooks between the 1950's to 1970's, however, many believe the Spaniards introduced it to the Puerto Ricans during the colonial era. Coquito drinks are often called Puerto Rican Eggnog. This drink is typically made throughout all of Latin America during the holiday season. There are several variations depending on where you are from. Some cultures make with eggs and others use coconut ice cream. It is traditionally made with alcohol. In this recipe, we are keeping it egg, ice cream and alcohol free.

National Coquito Day is December 21st.

INGREDIENTS YOU'LL NEED

• Sweetened condensed milk: Adds the creamy and sweet flavors.

• Cream of coconut: This is NOT coconut cream so please don't be confused. There are two known brands Goya and Coco Lopez.

• Coconut milk: This is a must ingredient but canned not boxed. Ideally, with a bit of the cream on top.

• Evaporated milk: Adds to the thickness, you can use more coconut milk in place if you are trying to keep dairy free.

• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavors of the drink.

• Spices: Nutmeg, clove and cinnamon are the spices that give this drink it's kick. You can also garnish with cinnamon sticks.

• Shredded coconut (optional): Adds more coconut flavor and a bit of crunch to garnish but totally optional.

HOW TO MAKE

This recipe is super simple and easy as you just need a blender.

Step 1: Add all ingredients to a blender and pulse until smoothly combined.

Step 2: Transfer to glass mason jar and cover with lid.

Step 3: Let refrigerate for at least 4 hours.

Step 4: Shake before serving, garnish with cinnamon stick or coconut flakes to be festive.

VARIATIONS TO THE COQUITO

• Dairy Free: To make dairy free, simply swap out the sweetened condensed milk for coconut sweetened condensed milk. Instead of using evaporated milk, you'd just use extra coconut milk.

• Alcoholic: To make this drink with alcohol, just use 3oz of Puerto Rican rum or white rum.

• Flavors: You can try mixing in chocolate syrup, caramel syrup, peppermint extract, nutella, berries to give it different flavors.

TIPS FOR THIS DRINK

• Make sure to use cream of coconut NOT coconut cream. You can find this in the ethnic or spanish food sections in most grocery stores. Goya and Coco Lopez are the brands.

• Shake the cream of coconut before using as the liquid and cream will have seperated.

• Refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours before serving to give the ingredients time to blend and time for the drink to cool.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1.) What is the difference between a coquito and eggnog? Eggnog is typically made with eggs and regular cows milk that is naturally sweetened. Coquito means little coconut which requires coconut as a main ingredient. Some versions add eggs but some don't. A coquito also uses sweetened condensed and evaporated milk with the added sugars. Both drinks use several of the same spices- nutmeg, cinnamon and clove.

2.) Can I make ahead? Yes, I would advise letting it refrigerate up to 4 hours before serving to let all the ingredients blend together. You can also store it in a refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days without alcohol. With alcohol, it can last up to 4 weeks.

3.) Can I freeze the coquito? I have not done this but I have read that if you put it in a freezer safe jar with airtight lid, this can keep for a few months. When taking it back out, I'd make sure it doesn't smell sour.

4.) Why does my coquito get lumpy? The coconut solids are solidifying. Just pop in the blender and they should dissolve.

5.) What do I do if my coquito is too thick? You can add in a little more coconut milk to help thin it out.

6.) What do I do if my coquito is too thin? You can add in a bit of coconut cream to help thicken the drink some more.

HOW TO STORE AND FREEZE

How to Store: Place in an airtight container or jar and place in the refrigerator for up to 4 days without rum. If making with rum, follow the above instructions and it should last up to 4 weeks with the alcohol content.

How to Freeze: Place in a freezer safe container or jar. Should be good for up to 3 months. Check by smell if still good after 3 months before blending.

OTHER FESTIVE HOLIDAY DRINKS TO TRY

Eggnog Protein Shake

Dairy Free Peppermint Mocha Frappuccino

Easy Spicy Hot Cocoa

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