This Puerto Rican coconut rum punch is traditionally served during the winter holidays. There are many ways to make it -- with more spices, with eggs or without, and flavored with dulce de leche or coffee, for starters. This simple, egg-free version relies only on cinnamon and vanilla extract, plus a garnish of freshly grated nutmeg.
It is very strong -- you can use less rum than what is listed below. Either way, serve it well chilled, either straight up or on the rocks. A funnel is helpful for transferring the mixture to bottles and jars.
To read the accompanying story, see: Coquito is the creamy, tropical drink that’s better than eggnog — and easier to make.
Cream of coconut is sweetened -- it is not the same as coconut cream. It's available at most grocery stores, near the canned coconut milk or in the international section. Look for Coco Lopez or Goya brands.
The coquito needs to be refrigerated for at least 2 hours, and up to about 1 week. (The flavor mellows only a little once chilled.) It can be frozen for up to a month. Shake well before serving.
Adapted from a recipe at AlwaysOrderDessert.com.
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Ingredients
measuring cupServings: 18-36 (makes 9 cups)
Directions
Step 1
Working in batches, combine the evaporated milk, condensed milk, cream of coconut and coconut milk in a blender; puree until smooth, pouring the blended mixture into a large mixing bowl as you go. Blend the rums, vanilla extract or paste and the ground cinnamon with some of the coconut mixture, then whisk all of the liquids together in the bowl.
Step 2
Pour into a pitcher or glass bottles and jars with lids (with the aid of a funnel, if you have one). Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until very cold.
Step 3
Before serving, stir or shake well to break up any solids. (If you find any remaining solids unpleasant, simply strain the coquito through a fine-mesh strainer.)
Step 4
Pour into small glasses; garnish each portion with a sprinkling of freshly grated nutmeg and a cinnamon stick, if desired.
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Nutritional Facts
Per serving (based on 36)
Calories
170
Fat
6 g
Saturated Fat
5 g
Carbohydrates
16 g
Sodium
35 mg
Cholesterol
5 mg
Protein
2 g
Sugar
15 g
This analysis is an estimate based on available ingredients and this preparation. It should not substitute for a dietitian’s or nutritionist’s advice.
Adapted from a recipe at AlwaysOrderDessert.com.
Tested by Kara Elder.
Published December 20, 2018
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