There’s a moment that changed everything for me in the kitchen: the very first time I tasted Puerto Rican Coquito. I was at this lively Christmas gathering in San Juan, surrounded by music, laughter, and the unmistakable aroma of coconut and warm spices. The first sip hit me like a tropical flavor bomb—rich, creamy, with just the right amount of rum punch and cinnamon warmth. I immediately knew this Puerto Rican Christmas beverage wasn’t just a drink; it was an experience. The balance between creamy coconut eggnog vibes and boozy holiday spirit knocked me out.
This Puerto Rican Coquito became a symbol of everything Cuba Queen stands for—bold flavors that pack a punch and a recipe that turns any moment into a celebration. From my very first taste, I was hooked and committed to perfecting my own traditional coquito recipe that makes every sip unforgettable. I tested dozens of versions, tweaking coquito ingredients to hit that flawless blend of creamy, spicy, and strong. That dedication paid off, and today I’m thrilled to share this Puerto Rican Coquito recipe that brings that Puerto Rican holiday drink magic straight into your home.
This isn’t your everyday holiday drink; it’s a coconut eggnog that sings with flavor and has the power to make any gathering sparkle with joy. Trust me, once you taste this Puerto Rican Coquito, you’ll want it on repeat every holiday season—and hey, I’ll show you how to nail it.
Ingredients You Need for This:
This Puerto Rican Coquito ingredient list is SHORT but mighty! Here’s your flavor arsenal:
- 1 (15-ounce) can cream of coconut (the secret to that luscious sweetness)
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk (for creamy indulgence)
- 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk (balances sweetness without heaviness)
- 1 cup white rum (or your favorite Puerto Rican rum for that authentic kick)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (classic flavor pop)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (freshly ground if you want to dial up the warmth)
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (adds complexity)
- Cinnamon sticks for garnish (optional, but the aroma!)

The Puerto Rican Coquito game-changer is using cream of coconut instead of just coconut milk. You get that velvety richness and natural sweetness that makes the coconut eggnog sing. Pro tip: You’ll find the best ingredients for this Puerto Rican Coquito at Latin markets or specialty grocery stores—don’t settle for generic coconut products.
Want to splurge? Grab a high-quality Puerto Rican rum like Don Q or Bacardí. It lifts your Puerto Rican Christmas beverage to next-level flavor heaven. Budget-friendly? No sweat. Just pick a decent white rum and save on optional garnishes.
One last nugget—store your coquito ingredients in the fridge for a few hours before mixing. Cold ingredients help your Puerto Rican Coquito blend smoothly and taste fresher.
If you’re curious about another festive flavor adventure, check out my African peanut soup recipe for a savory punch that’s just as bold!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a blender, add the cream of coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and evaporated milk. Blend on medium speed until smooth and creamy. Your Puerto Rican Coquito starts with that luscious base.
2. Next, pour in the white rum, vanilla, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. Blend again until the spices are evenly mixed. Don’t stress—your Puerto Rican Coquito is going to be incredible.
3. Taste your coconut eggnog. Need more oomph? Add a splash more rum or a pinch more cinnamon. Pro tip for Puerto Rican Coquito perfection: Always add spices little by little.
4. Pour the mixture into a clean glass bottle or jar with a tight lid. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight. This lets the flavors meld beautifully.
5. Before serving, shake or stir your Puerto Rican Coquito gently. You’ll notice the color lightens and the texture is silky, almost like a holiday dessert in a glass.
6. Pour into small glasses, garnish with cinnamon sticks, and prepare for the flavor party.
In my kitchen, this Puerto Rican Coquito takes exactly four hours to reach that perfect creamy chill. If it separates, no worries—just give it a quick stir or shake before serving.
Here’s where most people mess up their Puerto Rican Coquito: over-blending can make it too frothy or watery. Be confident but gentle with the blender speed.
While your Puerto Rican Coquito is working its magic, grab your camera—this is Instagram gold!
If you’re hungry for more bold flavor combinations, check out the Simply Recipes coquito (Puerto Rican coconut eggnog) recipe for a slightly different twist.
Presentation:
People absolutely lose their minds when I serve this Puerto Rican Coquito at holiday parties! It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser that doubles as dessert and drink.
Serve your Puerto Rican Coquito chilled in small vintage glasses or mini mason jars with a cinnamon stick or a sprinkle of fresh nutmeg on top. Trust me—the spice garnish adds that extra wow factor. For an Instagram-worthy plating technique, place a tiny lime wedge or toasted coconut flakes on the rim.

Pair this Puerto Rican Christmas beverage with spicy empanadas, flaky pasteles, or sweet plantains. The creamy coquito cuts through savory rich bites like a flavor boss.
Holiday gatherings, family brunches, and festive nights in? This Puerto Rican Coquito absolutely slays on all occasions. Leftovers? Blend it into a creamy cocktail milkshake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—total yum!
Want a seasonal twist? I’ve tested versions with pumpkin spice, coffee liqueur, and even a chocolate coquito. All slayed in their own right!
If you want to see more Puerto Rican Coquito love, check out the buzz at this Facebook group where coquito recipes and restaurants serving Puerto Rican eggnog get rave reviews.
FAQs:
Q: Can I make this Puerto Rican Coquito spicier?
A: Absolutely! Add a pinch of ground cloves or star anise during blending. For a bold twist, infuse your rum with cinnamon sticks overnight.
Q: What if I don’t have cream of coconut?
A: Swap with unsweetened coconut milk plus extra sweetened condensed milk. It’s not 100% authentic, but still delicious.
Q: How do I know when my Puerto Rican Coquito is perfectly done?
A: After chilling, it should be creamy, cold, and balanced with spice and rum. If you want, taste-test with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.
Q: Can I make this Puerto Rican holiday drink vegan?
A: Yes! Use coconut cream and sweetened coconut milk alternatives. Skip the condensed milk or replace with maple syrup for sweetness.
Q: Can I prepare Puerto Rican Coquito ahead?
A: Totally. It actually tastes better after a day or two chilling in the fridge. Just shake well before serving.
Q: Is aging Puerto Rican Coquito a thing?
A: Yup! I’ve let it rest for up to a week, and the flavors marry like magic. Keep refrigerated.
Q: How strong is this Puerto Rican Christmas beverage?
A: Balanced but satisfying. Adjust the rum to suit your party vibe.
Community feedback shows this Puerto Rican Coquito recipe nails the classic creamy-modern vibe everyone loves!
For even more variations, check out this My Dominican Kitchen post about the best coquito recipe (Puerto Rican coconut rum cocktail).
Conclusion:
This Puerto Rican Coquito represents everything Cuba Queen stands for—bold flavor, cultural richness, and that kick of excitement that turns ordinary moments into celebrations.
My Puerto Rican Coquito Power Tips:
– Use cream of coconut for unbeatable richness.
– Blend gently to keep creamy texture.
– Chill overnight to marry flavors perfectly.
I’ve loved creating variations—cinnamon-heavy, extra rum, and even a coconut-chocolate coquito—that all bring their own flair. The version getting the biggest crowd reactions? Classic, balanced, and creamy with just the right spice.
Make this Puerto Rican Coquito your signature holiday delight and watch how it changes your flavor game. I have zero doubt your kitchen will be rocking with flavor success.
Can’t wait to see the Puerto Rican Coquito memories you build! Share your bold flavor adventure with me—I’m here for it.
If this recipe rocks your world, you NEED to try my other bold kitchen hits, like this African peanut soup for another bold flavor adventure.
Let’s keep making every sip unforgettable!
Puerto Rican Coquito
Puerto Rican Coquito is a creamy, coconut-based holiday drink traditionally enjoyed during Christmas, blending coconut milk, rum, and warm spices for a rich and festive treat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Puerto Rican
Ingredients
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 can (15 oz) cream of coconut
- 1 cup white rum
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
- Cinnamon sticks (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a blender, combine evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and cream of coconut until smooth.
- Add rum, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Blend again to mix evenly.
- Pour the mixture into a clean bottle or jar and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to chill and allow flavors to meld.
- Shake well before serving. Pour into small glasses and garnish with a cinnamon stick if desired.
- Serve chilled and enjoy responsibly.
Notes
For a non-alcoholic version, omit the rum and add a bit more cream of coconut or coconut milk for richness. Coquito tastes even better after resting for a day.

