Coquito drink (vegan/alcohol free)

Coquito drink – Try this delicious coconut based Puerto Rican tropical Christmas beverage that’s vegan and free from alcohol.

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
• Rum (Don Q, Bacardi)

In respect to the original coquito drink 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.

How to make coquito drink – vegan and alcohol free version

My coquito drink 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 and 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!!

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

Coquito ingredients

To make my version of coquito you will need;

• Coconut milk
• Cream of coconut (not the same as coconut milk)
• Almond milk (in place of evarporated milk)
• Vegan condensed milk (optional)
• Cloves
• Nutmeg
• Cinnamon

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 doesn’t look remotely like coconut milk. It’s often used as a based for cocktails or alcoholic beverages.

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

Yes, using coconut cream, coconut butter/manna should work in place of cream of coconut but you might want to strain the drink prior to serving if using coconut cream.

Notes

• Coquito is free from dairy, paleo friendly and gluten free
• Feel free to add non alcoholic rum 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.

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