Vegan Coquito Recipe: Creamy, Dairy-Free Holiday Drink

Few holiday drinks evoke the spirit of celebration like coquito, a creamy coconut-based beverage hailing from Puerto Rico. Traditionally made with condensed milk, eggs, and rum, coquito is the ultimate festive treat—rich, sweet, and full of warming spices.

But what if you’re vegan or dairy-free? You don’t have to miss out!

With this vegan coquito recipe, you’ll enjoy all the luscious texture and flavor of classic coquito, with none of the animal products. Whether you’re gathering with friends, hosting a party, or simply want to experience an island holiday in a glass, this plant-based version is sure to delight.

It’s easy to prepare, customizable to your tastes, and perfect for sharing joy throughout the season!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and Indulgent: This vegan coquito is just as thick and satisfying as the original, thanks to a blend of coconut and cashew milks.
• No Dairy, No Eggs: 100% plant-based ingredients mean everyone can enjoy it—even those with allergies or dietary preferences.
• Fast and Simple: All you need is a blender and a few minutes for a festive drink that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepares beautifully in advance and tastes even better after chilling overnight, making party planning a breeze.
• Customizable: Adjust the sweetness, spice, and rum to your liking. Non-alcoholic options are just as delicious!

Ingredients

Below is a comprehensive list of what you’ll need for the ultimate vegan coquito:

• Full-fat coconut milk (canned): 2 cups (about 1.5 cans)
• Cashew milk (unsweetened): 1 cup
• Coconut cream (canned): 1 cup
• Sweetened condensed coconut milk: 1/2 cup
• Pure maple syrup: 2-3 tablespoons
• White rum: 3/4 cup (optional)
• Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons
• Ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
• Freshly grated nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon
• Pinch of salt: 1/8 teaspoon

Equipment

• High-speed blender or a powerful regular blender
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Can opener (for coconut milk/cream)
• Large mixing bowl (optional, for mixing without a blender)
• Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth (optional, for ultra-smooth texture)
• Large glass jar or bottle (for storing)
• Serving glasses
• Microplane or nutmeg grater (for fresh nutmeg, optional)

Instructions

1. Chill your ingredients: For best results, refrigerate your cans of coconut milk and cream for several hours or overnight. This helps the fats solidify and makes your coquito extra creamy.
2. Add all ingredients to the blender:
   • Pour coconut milk, cashew milk, and coconut cream into your blender.
   • Add sweetened condensed coconut milk (or maple syrup/agave), white rum (if using), vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Blend until smooth: Secure the blender lid and blend on high for 30-45 seconds, until completely smooth and creamy. Pause to scrape down the sides if needed.
4. Adjust to taste: Taste your coquito. If you prefer it sweeter, add more maple syrup. For stronger spice, add more cinnamon or nutmeg. For a thicker consistency, blend in extra coconut cream.
5. Strain (optional): If you like your coquito ultra-smooth, pour it through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into your mixing bowl or pitcher.
6. Bottle and chill: Transfer the finished coquito into a glass jar or bottle. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, for the flavors to meld and the drink to thicken.
7. Shake and serve: Before pouring, shake the bottle well or stir the coquito to redistribute any settled coconut fat. Pour into small glasses, garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

“Coquito is all about personalization—adjust the sweetness, spice, and strength to make it your own!”

• Make it nut-free: Substitute oat milk or soy milk for cashew milk if you have nut allergies.
• No condensed coconut milk? Use extra maple syrup or agave, and add 1-2 tablespoons coconut butter for richness.
• Alcohol-free option: Replace rum with coconut water or extra cashew milk for a family-friendly version.
• Add a twist: A pinch of ground cloves or allspice adds warm depth. For a chocolate version, blend in 2 tablespoons cocoa powder.
• Texture tricks: For an ultra-thick drink, reduce the plant milk or increase coconut cream. For a lighter version, use lite coconut milk or more cashew milk.
• Spice it up: Add a cinnamon stick or star anise to the bottle while chilling for subtle, infused flavor.
• Make ahead: Vegan coquito keeps well for up to 5 days in the fridge. The flavors intensify over time!
• Serving suggestion: Rim glasses with cinnamon sugar for a festive touch.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition per 1/2 cup serving (with rum, approximate):

These values will vary based on the brands used and any substitutions.

Serving Suggestions

• Chilled and neat: Serve straight from the fridge in small glasses or festive shot glasses for a classic presentation.
• With garnish: Top with a dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg, a cinnamon stick, or a sprinkle of toasted coconut for extra flair.
• As a dessert drink: Pour over ice for a refreshing after-dinner treat, or serve alongside vegan cookies, cake, or flan.
• Coffee coquito: Add a shot of strong espresso for a “coquito latte” twist—perfect for brunch gatherings.
• Cocktail base: Use vegan coquito as a creamy mixer for spiked holiday cocktails, or blend with ice for a frozen treat.
• Party pitcher: Make a double or triple batch and serve in a punch bowl for a crowd. Provide cinnamon sticks and nutmeg for DIY garnishes.

Conclusion

With this vegan coquito recipe, you can bring the warmth and joy of Puerto Rican holiday traditions into your home—without any dairy, eggs, or compromise on flavor. Each sip is creamy, aromatic, and perfectly balanced, offering a taste of the tropics in every glass.

It’s a drink that brings people together, whether you’re toasting at a festive dinner or relaxing by the fire.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with your coquito! Play around with spices, sweetness, and even non-alcoholic versions until you find your signature blend.

Looking for more plant-based party inspiration? Try my Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious for a sweet pairing, or explore savory sides like Lipton Vegetable Dip Recipe: Easy Party Favorite for your holiday table.

For even more comfort food classics, check out my Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves.

Cheers to celebrating with compassion, creativity, and a glass of vegan coquito in hand. ¡Salud!

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