Ultimate Creamy Chocolate Coquito Recipe: Your Must-Have Puerto Rican Holiday Drink

Get ready to indulge in the rich, sweet, and incredibly creamy delight of Chocolate Coquito! This festive beverage is a delightful twist on the classic Puerto Rican coquito, infusing it with decadent chocolate flavor that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, looking for a special treat for a cozy night in, or simply craving a taste of the Caribbean, this chocolate coquito recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. It’s wonderfully sweet, perfectly balanced, and surprisingly easy to whip up, making it the ultimate holiday drink for adults and a delightful non-alcoholic option for the younger crowd (just omit the rum!).

What is Coquito? A Puerto Rican Holiday Tradition

Coquito, meaning “little coconut,” is a traditional Puerto Rican holiday drink often described as the island’s answer to eggnog. This rich and creamy beverage is a staple during the Christmas season, served chilled in shot glasses or small tumblers, bringing warmth and cheer to family gatherings and celebrations. Traditionally, it’s made with a blend of coconut milk, cream of coconut, condensed milk, evaporated milk, white rum, and a generous touch of cinnamon. Each family often has its own cherished recipe, passed down through generations, making coquito much more than just a drink—it’s a symbol of heritage and festive joy. Our chocolate version takes this beloved classic and elevates it with the universally loved flavor of cocoa, creating a new tradition that’s equally comforting and luxurious.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Coquito Recipe

This isn’t just another coquito recipe; it’s an experience waiting to happen. Here’s why this chocolate rendition will become your new holiday favorite:

Perfectly Balanced Sweetness: Unlike some traditional coquito recipes that can be overly sweet for some palates, our chocolate version strikes a wonderful balance. The unsweetened cocoa powder introduces a delightful depth and slight bitterness that wonderfully cuts through the richness, resulting in a complex flavor profile that’s sweet but never cloying. It’s sweet enough to feel indulgent but sophisticated enough to be truly enjoyable.
Ideal for Entertaining Large Crowds: This recipe yields a generous batch, making it absolutely perfect for holiday parties, family gatherings, or any festive occasion where you need to serve many guests. It’s easy to scale up for even larger events, and its make-ahead nature means less stress on the day of your celebration. Simply blend, chill, and serve!
Kid-Friendly Option Available: One of the best aspects of coquito is its versatility. For those who prefer to abstain from alcohol or for the younger members of your family, simply omit the rum entirely. The base ingredients create a delicious, creamy chocolate beverage that kids will adore, making it a truly inclusive drink for everyone to enjoy during the holidays.
Excellent Make-Ahead Drink: This chocolate coquito holds beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days, or even longer in some cases. In fact, making it the night before or even a couple of days in advance is highly recommended. The flavors have time to meld and deepen as it chills, resulting in an even more harmonious and delicious drink. This allows you to prepare ahead of time, freeing you up to enjoy your guests and the festivities.
A Unique Twist on a Classic: If you’re a fan of the classic Puerto Rican coquito but want to try something new and exciting, this chocolate version is for you. It retains the beloved creamy, coconut base while adding a rich, luxurious chocolate note that’s both familiar and innovative. It’s a comforting blend of tradition and modern indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need for the Perfect Chocolate Coquito

Crafting this exquisite chocolate coquito requires a few key ingredients, each playing an essential role in achieving its signature creamy texture and rich flavor. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need:

White Rum: For an authentic and clean flavor profile that allows the chocolate and coconut to shine, white rum is highly recommended. It provides that classic boozy warmth without overpowering the other ingredients. However, feel free to experiment with a light spiced rum if you prefer a subtle hint of warming spices. The amount can be adjusted to your personal preference for strength.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: This ingredient is crucial for both sweetness and providing a thick, luxurious consistency. You’ll need one 14-ounce can. Remember, it’s super sticky, so make sure to use a spoon or spatula to scrape the inside of the can thoroughly to get every last drop!
Evaporated Milk: This helps to thin out the coquito just enough while still contributing to its overall creaminess without adding excessive sweetness. It balances the richness of the condensed milk and cream of coconut.
Cream of Coconut: Do not omit this! Cream of coconut is a non-negotiable ingredient for authentic coquito. It’s a thick, sweet coconut product (often found in a can or squeeze bottle near cocktail mixers) that imparts an unparalleled richness, body, and intense coconut flavor, making your coquito wonderfully creamy and decadent. Make sure not to confuse it with regular coconut milk.
Coconut Milk: Adding a can of full-fat coconut milk further enhances the tropical coconut flavor and contributes to the drink’s smooth consistency. It’s lighter than cream of coconut but essential for that distinct coconut base.
Ground Cinnamon: It simply isn’t coquito without cinnamon! This warming spice is fundamental, adding an aromatic depth and traditional holiday flavor that perfectly complements the chocolate and coconut.
Vanilla Extract: While optional, a good quality vanilla extract (pure vanilla, if possible) truly elevates the overall flavor, adding a layer of warmth and complexity. It enhances the sweetness and rounds out the chocolate and coconut notes beautifully.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: This is the star ingredient that transforms classic coquito into our decadent chocolate version. You’ll only need about 1/4 cup, but it’s vital that it’s unsweetened. Using unsweetened cocoa powder ensures that the drink isn’t overly sweet and allows the deep chocolate notes to come through without being cloying. Dutch-processed cocoa powder can offer a smoother, less acidic chocolate flavor.

How to Make Chocolate Coquito: Step-by-Step Guide

Preparing this festive Chocolate Coquito couldn’t be simpler! The magic happens in a blender, making it a quick and easy recipe perfect for last-minute holiday preparations.

Gather Your Ingredients: Before you begin, measure out all your ingredients. This ensures a smooth and efficient blending process. Don’t forget to have a large blender ready.
Combine All Ingredients in Blender: Carefully pour the white rum, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, unsweetened cocoa powder, evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, cream of coconut, and coconut milk into your blender. Make sure the lid is secured tightly.
Blend Until Smooth: Blend all the ingredients on high speed until the mixture is completely smooth and well combined. You want to ensure there are no lumps of cocoa powder and that all the milks and cream are fully incorporated. This typically takes about 1-2 minutes. The mixture should appear homogenous and creamy.
Taste and Adjust: Before chilling, taste a small amount of your coquito. This is your chance to adjust the sweetness or alcohol content. If you prefer it sweeter, you can add a tablespoon or two of granulated sugar or a touch more sweetened condensed milk. If you like it stronger, gradually add more rum, blending after each addition to mix thoroughly.
Chill Thoroughly: Transfer the blended chocolate coquito to a large pitcher or airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but ideally overnight. Chilling is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures the coquito is served at its optimal, refreshingly cold temperature.
Serve Chilled: Once thoroughly chilled, give the coquito a quick stir or shake if it has separated slightly. Pour into small glasses or shot glasses. Garnish as desired with a sprinkle of extra cinnamon or grated chocolate. Enjoy responsibly!

Top Tips for the Ultimate Creamy Chocolate Coquito

Achieving that perfect, silky-smooth, and wonderfully flavored chocolate coquito is easy with these expert tips:

Embrace Your Blender: A good quality blender is your best friend for this recipe. It ensures all ingredients are thoroughly combined and emulsified, creating that signature smooth and creamy texture. Don’t skimp on blending time; let it run for a minute or two to achieve maximum silkiness and prevent any grittiness from the cocoa powder.
Adjust Rum to Your Liking: The recommended 1 1/2 cups of white rum provides a balanced strength that many enjoy. However, personal preference varies greatly. If you’re new to coquito or prefer a milder drink, start with just 1/2 cup of rum and gradually add more, tasting as you go, until it reaches your desired potency. Conversely, if you enjoy a stronger holiday spirit, you might find more rum to your liking. Remember to drink responsibly!
Chill for Superior Flavor: This is arguably the most important tip! Making your chocolate coquito the night before and refrigerating it for at least 8-12 hours allows all the flavors to fully meld and deepen. Cold chocolate coquito tastes infinitely better than room temperature, as the chilling process mellows the alcohol, thickens the consistency slightly, and brings all the complex notes of coconut, chocolate, and spice into perfect harmony.
Don’t Skimp on Cream of Coconut: This ingredient is vital for the authentic rich and creamy texture of coquito. It provides a sweet, thick, and intense coconut flavor that regular coconut milk cannot replicate. Ensure you’re using cream of coconut (often found in the cocktail mixer aisle) and not just regular coconut milk.
Use Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: To maintain the balanced sweetness of this recipe, it’s crucial to use unsweetened cocoa powder. Sweetened cocoa mixes will make the coquito overly sweet, masking the other delightful flavors.
Garnish for Presentation: A simple garnish elevates the experience. A sprinkle of ground cinnamon, a dusting of extra cocoa powder, or a few chocolate shavings on top make each serving look as inviting as it tastes.

Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions

One of the beauties of Chocolate Coquito is how well it stores, making it an ideal make-ahead beverage for any festive occasion. After blending, transfer your coquito into a clean, airtight container. If you don’t have a large glass pitcher or an appropriately sized jar, feel free to use a clean, empty milk gallon or even multiple smaller bottles. The key is to ensure it’s sealed tightly to prevent any absorption of refrigerator odors and to maintain its freshness.

Refrigerate your chocolate coquito for up to 4 days for optimal taste and texture. In some cases, it can last up to a week if properly stored. The flavors will actually deepen and meld beautifully over time, so don’t hesitate to prepare it a few days in advance of your event. Always give it a good shake or stir before serving, as some of the ingredients may settle slightly at the bottom. We do not recommend freezing coquito, as the dairy and coconut milks can separate upon thawing, affecting the creamy texture.

Variations and Customizations

While this chocolate coquito is fantastic as is, don’t hesitate to get creative and personalize it to your taste:

Spiced Chocolate Coquito: For an even warmer holiday feel, add a pinch of ground nutmeg, a tiny dash of ground cloves, or a star anise pod to the blender. You can also steep these spices in a little warm rum before adding to the mixture.
Mint Chocolate Coquito: Add 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of pure mint extract to the blender for a refreshing mint chocolate flavor, reminiscent of your favorite holiday candies.
Coffee Chocolate Coquito: Incorporate 1-2 tablespoons of instant espresso powder or 1/4 cup of strong cold brew coffee for a mocha-inspired coquito with an extra kick.
Nutty Coquito: A few drops of almond extract or even a tablespoon of smooth almond butter can add a delicious nutty undertone that pairs wonderfully with chocolate and coconut.
Spicy Chocolate Coquito: For those who love a bit of heat, a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper or a small piece of a dried chili pepper blended with the mixture can add an intriguing spicy warmth.
Vegan/Dairy-Free Chocolate Coquito: Substitute the sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk with their plant-based counterparts (e.g., sweetened condensed coconut milk and evaporated coconut milk). Ensure your cream of coconut and coconut milk are dairy-free as well.
Non-Alcoholic Version (Virgin Coquito): Simply omit the rum completely. The base of coconut, chocolate, and spices is delicious on its own and perfect for all ages.

Serving Suggestions

Chocolate Coquito is best served chilled to truly appreciate its rich flavors and creamy texture. Here are some ideas to make serving even more special:

Traditional: Serve in small shot glasses or cordial glasses, chilled directly from the refrigerator.
On the Rocks: For those who prefer a slightly less intense drink, serve over a few ice cubes in a rocks glass.
Garnish Galore:
- Sprinkle with a generous pinch of ground cinnamon or cocoa powder.
- Grate some dark chocolate over the top for an elegant touch.
- Add a cinnamon stick for both aroma and a stirrer.
- A dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate syrup can make it extra decadent.
- For a truly festive look, rim glasses with a mixture of cocoa powder and sugar.
Occasions: Chocolate Coquito is the perfect centerpiece for holiday parties, Christmas Eve dinners, New Year’s celebrations, or as a luxurious dessert drink after any special meal. It also makes a wonderful homemade gift for friends and family during the festive season.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are answers to some common questions about making and enjoying Chocolate Coquito:

Q: Can I make chocolate coquito without rum?
A: Absolutely! To make a delicious non-alcoholic chocolate coquito, simply omit the white rum from the recipe. The blend of milks, coconut, chocolate, and spices creates a fantastic virgin drink that everyone can enjoy.

Q: How long does chocolate coquito last in the refrigerator?
A: When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, chocolate coquito typically lasts for up to 4 days. Some sources even suggest it can last up to a week due to the alcohol acting as a preservative, but for best taste and quality, consume within 4-5 days.

Q: Can I use dark rum instead of white rum?
A: While white rum is traditionally preferred for its clean flavor that allows other ingredients to shine, you can certainly use dark rum for a different flavor profile. Dark rum will add a richer, more caramel-like note, which can be a delicious twist with the chocolate. Just be aware it will alter the original flavor significantly.

Q: What if I can’t find cream of coconut?
A: Cream of coconut is crucial for the authentic richness and texture of coquito. It’s not the same as coconut milk. Look for brands like Coco Lopez or Goya in the international or cocktail mixer aisle of your grocery store. If you absolutely cannot find it, you can try to make a homemade version by reducing sweetened coconut milk, but it’s best to source the canned variety for ease and consistency.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, all the ingredients listed (rum, milks, cream of coconut, cocoa powder, cinnamon, vanilla extract) are naturally gluten-free, making this chocolate coquito recipe safe for those avoiding gluten.

Q: How can I adjust the sweetness level?
A: The recipe provides a balanced sweetness. If you prefer it less sweet, you can slightly reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk or add a bit more unsweetened cocoa powder. For a sweeter drink, add a tablespoon or two of granulated sugar or a touch more sweetened condensed milk, blending well after each addition.

More Puerto Rican Recipes You Might Enjoy

If you’ve loved this taste of Puerto Rican tradition, you might enjoy exploring more culinary delights from the island:

Coquito Cake
Sopa de Salchichon
Pollo Guisado
Arroz con Dulce

Have you tried this irresistible Chocolate Coquito recipe? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Please leave a star ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating in the recipe card below and/or a review in the comments section further down the page. Your feedback helps other home cooks discover and enjoy these recipes. And don’t forget to consider following me on Facebook or Pinterest for more delicious recipes!

5 from 1 vote

Chocolate Coquito

By

Julie Maestre

Chocolate coquito is sweet and creamy, festive, and the ultimate holiday drink!

Prep:

3 minutes

Total:

3 minutes

Servings:
16

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Equipment

Blender

Ingredients

▢

1 ½
cups
white rum
▢

1
teaspoon
vanilla extract
▢

¼
teaspoon
ground cinnamon
▢

¼
cup
unsweetened cocoa powder
▢

1
(12 oz) can
evaporated milk
▢

1
(14 oz) can
sweetened condensed milk
▢

1
(15 oz) can
cream of coconut
▢

1
(13.5 oz) can
coconut milk

Cook Mode

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Instructions

Place all of the ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth.
Serve chilled.

Notes

Please drink responsibly!

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Author:

Julie Maestre

Prep Time:

3 minutes

Total Time:

3 minutes

Course:
Drinks

Cuisine:
Puerto Rican

Servings:
16

Keyword:
Chocolate Coquito, Cocoa Coquito, Coquito de chocolate

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