If you’re on the hunt for a holiday beverage that’s equal parts festive, creamy, and indulgent, Puerto Rican Chocolate Coquito is about to become your new favorite treat! This classic Puerto Rican drink gets a luscious twist with the addition of rich melted chocolate, making it a standout at any holiday gathering. Whether you’re serving this to friends or treating yourself to a glass by the fire, you’ll love the warmth and sweetness of this traditional drink.
Let’s dive into what makes this recipe a showstopper and how you can whip up your very own batch of chocolate coquito at home.
Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Coquito Recipe
This isn’t just any coquito—it’s coquito elevated! Here are a few reasons why this recipe will become a go-to:
- Decadently creamy: The combination of coconut milk, cream of coconut, and sweetened condensed milk creates an irresistibly smooth and rich base.
- Chocolatey goodness: The addition of melted chocolate adds a luxurious depth that chocolate lovers can’t resist.
- Customizable: Keep it traditional with rum or make it family-friendly by skipping the alcohol.
- Perfect for make-ahead: The flavors intensify after a day in the fridge, making it ideal for holiday prep.
What Does Chocolate Coquito Taste Like?
Imagine the sweet, tropical notes of traditional coquito fused with the velvety richness of chocolate. It’s like a creamy hot chocolate with a Caribbean twist—silky, spiced, and just the right amount of sweet. Each sip is a burst of holiday cheer!
Benefits of Making Coquito at Home
- Authentic flavors: Store-bought versions don’t come close to the real deal!
- Cost-effective: A batch serves multiple people for a fraction of what pre-made options cost.
- Impress your guests: There’s something special about serving a homemade beverage that looks as good as it tastes.
Ingredients for Puerto Rican Chocolate Coquito
Here’s everything you’ll need:
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 1 can (15 oz) cream of coconut (look for brands like Coco López)
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 1/2 cup dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips (melted)
- 1 cup white or spiced rum (optional for a non-alcoholic version)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
For Garnish:
- Whipped cream
- Grated chocolate or chocolate syrup
- Cinnamon stick
Tools You’ll Need
- Blender: For blending all the ingredients into a silky mixture.
- Microwave-safe bowl or double boiler: To melt the chocolate.
- Pitcher or airtight container: For storing the coquito.
- Measuring spoons and cups: For precise measurements.
Ingredient Additions and Substitutions
- Non-alcoholic version: Simply omit the rum for a kid-friendly and equally delicious option.
- Spiced rum alternative: Use coconut rum for an extra tropical flair!
- Extra chocolatey: Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder for an even richer flavor.
- Dairy-free: Use a plant-based condensed milk substitute if you’re avoiding dairy.
How to Make Puerto Rican Chocolate Coquito
1. Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler, melt the chocolate chips until smooth. Stir to ensure no lumps remain and let it cool slightly.
2. Blend the Base
In a blender, combine the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, cream of coconut, coconut milk, and melted chocolate. Blend until completely smooth and creamy.
3. Add the Flavors
Pour in the rum (if using), cinnamon, vanilla extract, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Blend again until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Chill
Transfer the mixture to a pitcher or airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify.
5. Serve and Garnish
Shake or stir the coquito before serving. Pour into small glasses or mugs, then top with whipped cream, a drizzle of chocolate syrup, and a cinnamon stick for garnish.
What to Serve with Chocolate Coquito
- Holiday cookies: Pair with traditional Puerto Rican treats like polvorones or mantecaditos.
- Light desserts: Chocolate coquito shines when served alongside simple desserts like shortbread or flan.
- Savory bites: Balance the sweetness with salty snacks like plantain chips or cheese-filled alcapurrias.
Tips for Perfect Chocolate Coquito
- Blend in batches if your blender is small, ensuring everything mixes evenly.
- Adjust the sweetness by using less condensed milk if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Serve chilled: Coquito tastes best when cold, so don’t skimp on the refrigeration time!
Storage Instructions
Chocolate coquito can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Be sure to give it a good shake or stir before serving, as the ingredients may separate slightly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze coquito?
While it’s possible to freeze coquito, it may alter the creamy texture. For the best experience, stick to refrigeration.
Is coquito always made with alcohol?
Traditionally, coquito includes rum, but this recipe can easily be adapted to be non-alcoholic.
How can I make this vegan?
Replace the dairy-based condensed and evaporated milks with plant-based alternatives to create a vegan-friendly version.
Wrap-Up: Chocolate Coquito Is Holiday Perfection
This Puerto Rican Chocolate Coquito combines the best of tradition and indulgence, offering a holiday drink that’s sure to delight. Creamy, spiced, and chocolatey, it’s perfect for sipping by the fire or sharing with loved ones.
If you’re in the mood for even more holiday beverages, you’ll love exploring these:
- Candy Cane Martini: A Festive Holiday Cocktail
- Pink Coconut Mojito Recipe: A Tropical Refresh with a Creamy Twist
- Malibu Bay Breeze: Tropical, Light, and Oh-So-Refreshing
Ready to try this recipe? Let me know how it turned out! Don’t forget to share your photos and reviews on Pinterest—I’d love to see your festive creations.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~290
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 4g
- Alcohol Content (if rum is used): ~8%
Looking for even more holiday inspiration? Try my recipes for Classic Coquito or Coconut Flan—both are guaranteed to be crowd-pleasers!
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Puerto Rican Chocolate Coquito: A Decadent Holiday Delight
- Total Time: 15 minutes + 2 hours chilling
- Yield: Y0 servings (approximately 1/2 cup each)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the velvety richness of Puerto Rican Chocolate Coquito, a creamy holiday drink infused with coconut, warm spices, and a decadent chocolate twist. This festive treat is perfect for celebrations and can be made with or without rum for a customizable indulgence.
Ingredients
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 1 can (15 oz) cream of coconut (such as Coco López)
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 1/2 cup dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted
- 1 cup white or spiced rum (optional for non-alcoholic version)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- Pinch of saltFor Garnish:
- Whipped cream
- Grated chocolate or chocolate syrup
- Cinnamon stick
Instructions
- Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler, melt the chocolate chips until smooth. Let cool slightly.
- Blend the Base: In a blender, combine the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, cream of coconut, coconut milk, and melted chocolate. Blend until smooth.
- Add the Flavors: Pour in the rum (if using), cinnamon, vanilla extract, nutmeg, and salt. Blend again until fully incorporated.
- Chill: Transfer to a pitcher or airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing flavors to meld.
- Serve: Shake or stir well before serving. Pour into glasses or mugs, garnish with whipped cream, chocolate syrup, and a cinnamon stick, and enjoy!
Notes
- For a non-alcoholic version, omit the rum—it’s still delicious!
- Coquito can be made up to a week in advance; shake well before serving.
- Enhance the chocolate flavor by adding 1 tbsp cocoa powder to the blender.
- Store in the fridge in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (to melt chocolate)
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Blended
- Cuisine: Puerto Rican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: Puerto Rican Chocolate Coquito, Chocolate Coquito Recipe, Holiday Drink, Puerto Rican Beverage