Name: Puerto Rican Chocolate Coquito
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 10 min
Cuisine: Puerto Rican
Ingredients: 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk; 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk; 1 can (15 oz) cream of coconut (e.g., Coco López); 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk; 1/2 cup dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips (melted); 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 tsp nutmeg; Pinch of salt; Whipped cream; Grated chocolate or chocolate syrup; Cinnamon stick

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Introduction

I recently had the pleasure of making Puerto Rican Chocolate Coquito for a family gathering, and it was an instant favorite! This rich, creamy beverage is a delightful twist on the classic coquito, traditionally made with rum and coconut. The addition of chocolate transforms it into an indulgent treat that’s perfect for the holidays or any special occasion. Everyone at the party loved how the chocolate and coconut flavors blended together, creating a smooth and decadent drink. Whether you’re serving it as a festive holiday beverage or just enjoying a cozy night in, this Puerto Rican Chocolate Coquito is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love Puerto Rican Chocolate Coquito

Decadent and Creamy: The combination of sweetened condensed milk, coconut milk, and cream of coconut creates a velvety smooth texture that’s irresistible.
Chocolate Twist: The addition of melted chocolate gives this classic coquito recipe a rich and indulgent flavor that chocolate lovers will adore.
Customizable: You can adjust the sweetness or spice levels to your preference, making it easy to tailor the recipe to your taste.
Festive and Fun: This chocolate coquito is a great addition to any holiday celebration, from Christmas parties to New Year’s Eve gatherings.
No Baking Required: This recipe is quick and simple to prepare with minimal effort. No need to bake—just blend the ingredients together and chill!

Ingredients

1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
1 can (15 oz) cream of coconut (e.g., Coco López)
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
1/2 cup dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips (melted)
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp nutmeg
Pinch of salt

Optional Garnish:

Whipped cream
Grated chocolate or chocolate syrup
Cinnamon stick

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate:
In a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler, melt the dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips. Stir frequently until smooth, then let it cool slightly to avoid curdling the other ingredients when mixed.
Blend the Base Ingredients:
In a blender, combine the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, cream of coconut, and coconut milk. Blend on high until smooth and fully combined.
Add the Spices and Flavorings:
Add the melted chocolate, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Blend again until all the ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture is silky.
Refrigerate:
Transfer the chocolate coquito to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together. The longer it sits, the more flavorful it becomes.
Stir Before Serving:
Before serving, give the coquito a good stir or shake to ensure it’s well-mixed.
Serve and Garnish:
Pour the coquito into glasses, and garnish with whipped cream, a sprinkle of grated chocolate or a drizzle of chocolate syrup, and a cinnamon stick for that authentic Puerto Rican touch.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8-10
Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 kcal (depending on portion size and the specific ingredients used)

This recipe’s nutritional content can vary based on the brand of ingredients you choose, particularly the cream of coconut and chocolate chips.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes

How to Serve

As a Holiday Drink: This Chocolate Coquito is perfect for festive occasions like Christmas and New Year’s Eve.
On a Cozy Night In: Enjoy a glass while relaxing by the fire or watching a movie for a sweet, comforting treat.
With a Dessert Spread: Pair this drink with other sweet treats such as churros, cookies, or flan to complete a dessert-themed gathering.
As a Gift: Pour into decorative bottles, tie a ribbon around the neck, and give it as a thoughtful homemade gift for friends or family.
Cold or Over Ice: Serve the coquito cold as-is or pour it over ice for a refreshing twist.

Additional Tips

Make it Boozy: If you prefer a traditional coquito with a little extra kick, add rum (light rum works best) to the recipe. Start with 1/4 cup and adjust to your taste.
Use High-Quality Chocolate: The chocolate is one of the star ingredients in this drink, so opt for good-quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips to enhance the flavor.
Don’t Skip the Chilling: Let the coquito sit in the fridge for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to blend together and the drink to thicken slightly.
Adjust the Spice: If you like your coquito a little spicier, add an extra dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to taste.
Make Ahead: You can make this coquito up to 3 days ahead of time. The flavors will continue to improve as it sits in the refrigerator.

FAQ

1. Can I use sweetened coconut milk instead of regular coconut milk?
Yes, but sweetened coconut milk will make the drink sweeter. Adjust the amount of sweetened condensed milk if you prefer less sweetness.

2. How do I store leftover coquito?
Store any leftover coquito in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 5-7 days.

3. Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Yes, you can experiment with milk chocolate or even white chocolate for a different flavor profile, though dark chocolate is recommended for the best results.

4. Can I make this coquito without alcohol?
Absolutely! The recipe can be enjoyed without any alcohol, making it a great option for kids or anyone who prefers a non-alcoholic version.

5. Can I add other flavorings to this recipe?
Yes! You can add a bit of coffee, coconut extract, or even orange zest to create a unique twist on the classic flavor.

6. Can I use homemade coconut milk instead of canned?
Yes, if you prefer homemade coconut milk, you can substitute it for the canned version, but the texture might be a little different.

7. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this coquito recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a perfect choice for those with gluten sensitivities.

8. Can I freeze Puerto Rican Chocolate Coquito?
While you can freeze coquito, the texture may change slightly once thawed. It’s best enjoyed freshly chilled but will keep in the freezer for up to 1 month.

9. Is there a vegan version of this recipe?
Yes, you can make a vegan version by using coconut cream and plant-based milk instead of the dairy ingredients.

10. Can I serve this drink hot?
While coquito is traditionally served cold, you can heat it gently if you prefer a warm drink. Just make sure to heat it on low and avoid boiling.

Conclusion

Puerto Rican Chocolate Coquito is a festive, indulgent beverage that combines the tropical flavors of coconut with the rich depth of chocolate, making it the perfect drink for holidays, celebrations, or any time you’re craving a sweet treat. This recipe is easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and versatile enough to customize to your liking. Whether you’re serving it with family and friends or giving it as a gift, this chocolate coquito is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try and enjoy the delightful fusion of coconut and chocolate in every sip!