That Girl Cooks Healthy

  • Home
  • About Me
    • FAQ/Disclaimer
    • Privacy Policy
    • Work With Me
  • Recipe Index
  • Useful Articles
  • 7 Day Detox Juicing Meal Plan
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Home
  • About Me
    • FAQ/Disclaimer
    • Privacy Policy
    • Work With Me
  • Recipe Index
  • Useful Articles
  • 7 Day Detox Juicing Meal Plan
subscribe
search icon
Homepage link
  • Home
  • About Me
    • FAQ/Disclaimer
    • Privacy Policy
    • Work With Me
  • Recipe Index
  • Useful Articles
  • 7 Day Detox Juicing Meal Plan
×
BLANK » Recipe Index » Caribbean Dishes

Vegan Coquito (Alcohol Free)

November 9, 2024 by Charla 20 Comments

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe
long coquito pin
short coquito pin

Learn how to make this delicious Puerto Rican Christmas beverage called Coquito. This Caribbean beverage that's completely vegan and free from alcohol making it suitable for children, drivers or anyone who doesn't drink alcohol and yet still foolproof.

single glass of coquito

**Are you looking for some exclusive Caribbean recipes for Christmas? If so, don't forget to check out my seasonal e-book entitled "The Caribbean Holiday Recipe Cookbook" - Purchase your copy today**

When it comes to Christmas, most people put more emphasis on food rather then drinks.

This Caribbean style drink called coquito (co-kee-to) is guaranteed to transport you to the tropics.

It's so delicious, creamy even without the rum. It takes only a few minutes to whip up a batch or two and great to bottle up and make into a gift for family and friends.

What is coquito?

In short, coquito which means little coconut in Spanish (pronouced co-kee-to) is a traditional coconut based holiday drink which hails from Puerto Rico.

The primary ingredients in coquito are;

  • Egg yolks
  • Evaporated milk
  • Coconut milk
  • Cream of coconut
  • Nutmeg
  • Cinnamon
  • Cloves
  • Condensed milk
  • White rum (Don Q, Bacardi)

In respect to the original coquito recipe there appears to be a great divide with egg yolks vs no egg yolks.

Some people are partial to making their coquito with egg yolk making a more coconut eggnog while others simply omit the yolks.

Side note, don't forget to try my Caribbean winter warming recipes if you get a chance to.

 
two glasses of coquito drink

Reasons to make coquito - vegan and alcohol free

My adaptation is a slight remake of the original recipe - it's dairy free and free from alcohol. I wanted to make a recipe that was suitable for vegans.

Also people who don't care for alcohol or even if you're simply looking for a recipe that's free from alcohol because you're driving or don't want to get tipsy or drunk - I've got you!!

If you use rum essence/flavouring that yields the taste of alcohol without the boozy effects. As a non drinker I use this method a lot in my cakes and drinks including my Gluten Free Rum Cake along with these super cute Rum Cupcakes.

This version of coquito still packs a sweet punch even without the rum. You can go back for seconds or thirds of this thick, rich drink without feeling boozy.

  • Perfect for those who are vegan or dairy free
  • Totally alcohol free making it safe for drivers
  • If you are giving up alcohol or abstaining due to illness/pregnancy
  • Child friendly

Ingredients you need

Ingredients you need to vegan coquito
  • Coconut milk - You will need to make sure that the coconut milk that you are using is full fat (very important) and unsweetened.
  • Cream of coconut  - Not to be mistaken for coconut milk, cream of coconut is sweetened and processed and has more of a thick, syrup type of texture. Popularly used in drinks and cocktails.
  • Almond milk (in place of evarporated milk) - This is the nearest plant based version of evaporated milk that I could find.
  • Vegan condensed milk (optional) - I used my homemade vegan condensed milk.
  • Cloves/nutmeg/cinnamon - spices used to enhance the taste of the coquito.
  • Vanilla - To  optimise the flavour.
  • Rum essence/flavour - optional, as this is a mocktail/no alcohol beverage, essence can be used in place of Don Q.

The steps

steps 1-2 blitzing the coquito in a blender
  • Pour and combine all of the ingredients into a blender.
  • Proceed to blitz at high speed until smooth and creamy in texture.
  • Stir in the rum flavouring if you are using (to your desired taste).
  • Pour into a pitcher jug or funnel into a bottle.
  • Refrigerate prior to serving.
  • Garnish with nutmeg or cinnamon and enjoy!

What is cream of coconut?

Cream of coconut is a thick, smooth, clear liquid that is made from fresh coconut. It's very sweet and should not be mistaken for coconut milk. It's often used as a based for cocktails or alcoholic beverages.

It comes canned or in a squeeze bottle which looks like paste.

Is there a substitute, if I cannot find cream of coconut?

Yes, you can make your own cream of coconut by doing either the following;

  • A can of coconut cream (NOT COCONUT MILK)
  • sweeten to taste (agave, maple syrup etc..)

or

  • use the solids only from 2-3 cans of full fat coconut milk
  • sweeten to taste (agave, maple syrup etc..)

Add all of the ingredients to a blender and blitz until smooth.

Can you make this recipe into vegan eggnog instead?

Yes, if you want to use Flax Egg in addition to this recipe then go right ahead.

Is coconut cream the same as cream of coconut?

Similar but not the same. Both contain high amounts of coconut in comparsion to coconut milk and thicker in consistency then coconut milk.

Coconut cream is canned, in the form of blocks (creamed coconut) or in a jar known as coconut manna/butter. Cream of coconut is already sweetened and typically used in drinks and cocktails.

What can you serve this drink with?

Pretty much anything you like! Here are a few ideas;

  • Vegan Mofongo
  • Cuban Black Bean Soup
  • Sopa De Platano Verde

Notes and tips

  • Coquito is free from dairy, paleo friendly and gluten free.
  • Feel free to add non alcoholic rum essence/flavouring to your drink to give it an edge.
  • Best served cold, chill for a minimum of an hour before serving.
  • Cream of coconut is quite sweet therefore only a small amount of  Vegan Condensed Milk is necessary or you can even choose to leave this ingredient out altogether.
two glasses with nutmeg

Other celebratory drinks to try

  • Mulled Wine
  • Sorrel Drink
  • Vegan Irish Cream
  • Haitian Cremas
  • Ponche De Creme
  • Ginger Beer
  • Chocolate Tea

**Please comment below and star rate if you have tried my recipes. Support my website by leaving a donation through Buying Me a Coffee. A site to show your appreciation of my hardwork over the years.  Let's be friends and engage on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram I also like to pin on Pinterest, where you can find more amazing recipes.**

coquito with nutmeg shells

Vegan Coquito

Learn how to make this delicious Puerto Rican Christmas beverage called Coquito. This Caribbean beverage that's completely vegan and free from alcohol making it suitable for children, drivers or anyone who doesn't drink alcohol and yet still foolproof.
5 from 10 votes
Print Pin Rate
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: Puerto Rican
Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 645kcal
Author: Charla

Ingredients

  • 14 oz can of coconut milk (400ml) full fat
  • 14 oz can of cream of coconut (400ml)
  • ⅓ cup of almond milk (80ml)
  • ½ teaspoon of cinnamon (1g)
  • ½ teaspoon of nutmeg (1g)
  • ¼ teaspoon of cloves (0.25g)
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla (4g)
  • alcohol free rum essence/flavoring optional, to taste
  • vegan condensed milk optional, to taste

Instructions

  • Pour and combine all of the ingredients into a blender.
  • Proceed to blitz at high speed until smooth and creamy in texture
  • Stir in the rum flavouring (if you are using to your desired taste)
  • Pour into a pitcher jug or funnel into a bottle
  • Refrigerate prior to serving
  • Garnish with nutmeg or cinnamon and enjoy!

Notes

  • Coquito is free from dairy, paleo friendly and gluten free.
  • Feel free to add non alcoholic rum essence/flavouring to your drink to give it an edge.
  • Best served cold, chill for a minimum of an hour before serving.
  • Cream of coconut is quite sweet therefore only a small amount of  Vegan Condensed Milk is necessary or you can even choose to leave this ingredient out altogether.

Nutrition

Calories: 645kcal | Carbohydrates: 79g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 36g | Saturated Fat: 32g | Cholesterol: 2mg | Sodium: 105mg | Potassium: 203mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 73g | Vitamin A: 48IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 89mg | Iron: 3mg
Tried this Recipe? Tag me Today!Mention @ThatGirlCooksHealthy or tag #ThatGirlCooksHealthy!

More Caribbean Dishes

  • Caribbean peanut punch
    Caribbean Peanut Punch
  • A single bowl of conch salad
    Bahamian Conch Salad Recipe
  • A bowl of different chopped fruit
    Tropical Fruit Salad
  • 2 glasses of mauby with ice
    Homemade Mauby Drink (Caribbean Bark Beverage)

About Charla

I'm Charla. Caribbean foodie & Certified Health Coach. Welcome to the heaven of gluten and dairy free recipes as well as modernised healthier alternatives to some of your favourite Caribbean recipes.

Comments

  1. Beverly Hayes says

    November 24, 2023 at 1:38 pm

    5 stars
    The flavor was really good, but it turned out extremely thick! It was not coming out of the bottle after chilling it. I only had coconut cream on hand and that was probably the problem. I will try to find cream of coconut soon and try it again. 🙂

    Reply
    • Charla says

      November 24, 2023 at 1:53 pm

      Hi Beverly, yes coconut cream was the culprit, at least you are aware of what made the coquito extremely thick. Amazon do stock cream of coconut so if you're able to order it there instead I would urge you to do so as you will love the drink even more.

      Reply
  2. EllenHodges says

    October 20, 2023 at 6:26 pm

    Hi Charla this Coquito drink remind me of egg nug or egg punch with out the eggs whites this kind of punch is good for the older folks and children they can enjoy. No alcohol yumyum

    Reply
    • Charla says

      October 21, 2023 at 5:55 pm

      Thank you!

      Reply
  3. Glorimar says

    November 24, 2020 at 12:36 am

    5 stars
    I've never made vegan coquito before and when I made this we were SHOCKED at how amazing it was! I've always made coquito the typical way, but honestly may actually prefer this recipe! I added 1/4 cup of bacardi gold, and only used 1 tbsp of the sweetened coconut condensed milk 🙂

    Reply
    • Charla says

      November 24, 2020 at 8:52 pm

      Oh that is so nice to hear. I'm glad you prefer this version now.

      Reply
  4. Julia says

    October 23, 2020 at 5:29 am

    5 stars
    I can't wait for Friday to try it out! It looks the kind of a drink I will love!

    Reply
    • Charla says

      October 23, 2020 at 7:58 am

      Thanks Julia. I promise you will love it!!

      Reply
  5. Cindy says

    October 23, 2020 at 1:42 am

    5 stars
    This was so fun to make and it was awesome that it was alcohol free so my kids could partake as well! It was loved by the entire family. What a treat!

    Reply
    • Charla says

      October 23, 2020 at 7:56 am

      Glad you liked it Cindy

      Reply
  6. Jamie says

    October 23, 2020 at 1:02 am

    5 stars
    I love the coconut flavor in this drink and appreciate how it's alcohol free! Such a great drink to make during the fall with all those spices!

    Reply
    • Charla says

      October 23, 2020 at 7:57 am

      Yes, it's perfect for fall Jamie.

      Reply
  7. Lisa Huff says

    October 23, 2020 at 12:43 am

    5 stars
    Saving this one for the holidays! Love that you use coconut milk and coconut cream.

    Reply
    • Charla says

      October 23, 2020 at 7:57 am

      Yay! I'm so glad to hear that Lisa.

      Reply
  8. Beth says

    October 23, 2020 at 12:27 am

    5 stars
    This looks so delicious and yummy! I can't wait to give this a try!

    Reply
    • Charla says

      October 23, 2020 at 7:57 am

      Thanks Beth

      Reply
  9. Sue says

    October 22, 2020 at 11:28 pm

    5 stars
    This looks deliciously sweet! A wonderful treat for kids AND adults!

    Reply
    • Charla says

      October 22, 2020 at 11:29 pm

      Definitely! Thanks Sue.

      Reply
  10. Lissette says

    January 14, 2019 at 9:57 pm

    5 stars
    This virgin / non-alcoholic Coquito recipe is shockingly good. Everyone assumed I’d gotten mixed up and it was spiked. I made it again with witnesses and it was exactly the same...delicious! The only difference in spices is that there is a 1/4 tsp more of the nutmeg in this one versus the alcoholic version. I suspect the extra nutmeg may have helped make it taste spiked. I’m so thrilled as it’s so much saner calorically than the regular Coquito recipe. 1/3 amount of condensed milk (I didnt use the vegan) and no evaporated milk. Thank you so much, my mom takes medicine and can’t drink at all and my little boy can partake in this festive drink along with the adults!

    Reply
    • Charla says

      January 15, 2019 at 2:28 pm

      Thank you for feedback Lisette. I find the non alcoholic version so tasty as well and child friendly is an added bonus too!!

      Reply
5 from 10 votes (1 rating without comment)

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




a picture of Charla

Hey, I'm Charla!

I'm an avid Caribbean foodie. Welcome to the haven of gluten and dairy free recipes as well as modernised healthier alternatives to some of your favourite Caribbean recipes.

About me

Popular

  • Tuna Steaks Recipe
  • pudding in a white bowl
    Avocado Lime Pudding
  • Chicken dinner in a bowl
    Cajun Chicken Bowls
  • A stack of roti
    Keto Roti Recipe with Almond Flour
  • A blue bowl of mixed salad with chicken
    Mango Chicken Salad
  • A pitcher of juice and a glass
    Chayote Water

As Featured In

Footer

↑ back to top

Featured In

About

  • Privacy Policy

Contact

  • Contact
  • FAQ

Copyright © 2025 That Girl Cooks Healthy

Rate This Recipe

Your vote:




A rating is required
A name is required
An email is required

Recipe Ratings without Comment

Something went wrong. Please try again.