Carnation Coquito Recipe – Hungarian Chef

Last Updated on January 29, 2024

Carnation Coquito is a traditional Caribbean eggnog-style drink made from coconut milk, condensed milk, spices, and rum. It’s a creamy and delicious holiday drink that’s sure to bring holiday cheer to any celebration. This recipe is easy to make and can be made in advance for stress-free entertaining. Whether you enjoy it as a dessert or a festive cocktail, this carnation coquito recipe will become a favorite in no time.

What is Carnation Coquito?

Carnation is a brand owned by Nestlé, known for its various dairy products. One of its most popular items is Carnation Coquito. It is a traditional Caribbean eggnog-style drink made from coconut milk, condensed milk, spices, and rum. It’s a creamy and delicious holiday drink that’s sure to bring holiday cheer to any celebration. 

This recipe is easy to make and can be made in advance for stress-free entertaining. Whether you enjoy it as a dessert or a festive cocktail, this carnation coquito recipe will become a favorite in no time.

Why You’ll Love this Carnation Coquito Recipe?

This carnation coquito recipe is a creamy and decadent holiday drink. It’s rich and smooth, and the flavors of coconut and rum make it especially festive. It’s a great make-ahead holiday drink that can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. It’s also a great way to use up leftover holiday rum. Plus, it’s so easy to make that even novice cooks can make it with confidence.

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The Ingredients

Creamy Coconut Milk: This forms the creamy and rich base of the coquito, providing a tropical and indulgent texture to the drink. It’s the primary flavor foundation.

Lusciously Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds sweetness and richness to the coquito. It contributes to the creamy consistency and enhances the overall flavor profile.

Rich and Velvety Evaporated Milk: Adds further creaminess and richness to the drink. It complements the coconut milk and sweetened condensed milk, contributing to the luxurious texture.

Finely Ground Cinnamon Spice: Infuses warm, spicy notes into the coquito, adding depth and a hint of aromatic flavor to the drink.

Freshly Grated Nutmeg: Provides a warm and slightly nutty flavor that pairs well with the other spices, enhancing the overall taste experience.

Pure Madagascar Vanilla Extract: Enhances the sweetness and adds a floral, aromatic note to the coquito, elevating its flavor profile.

Spiced Rum (optional): Offers an additional layer of flavor and depth. The alcohol can complement the spices and sweetness, giving a slight kick to the drink. Skipping it results in a non-alcoholic version.

Ice Cubes (optional): Used to chill the drink if desired, providing a refreshing and cold serving option.

Ground Cinnamon Powder or Elegant Cinnamon Sticks: These are for garnish, adding visual appeal to the drink and hinting at the flavors infused within.

Step by Step Instructions

STEP 1: Prepare Ingredients

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature. Before opening the cans of coconut milk, shake or stir them well.

STEP 2: Combine the Milks

• In a large mixing bowl or blender, gather the creamy coconut milk, sweetened condensed milk, and evaporated milk.
• Pour these milks into the mixing bowl or blender.

STEP 3: Add Spices

• Sprinkle finely ground cinnamon spice and freshly grated nutmeg into the milk mixture.
• This will infuse the coquito with warm, aromatic flavors.

STEP 4: Introduce Vanilla

• Pour Madagascar vanilla extract into the bowl or blender containing the milk mixture.
• The vanilla will enhance the overall sweetness and aroma of the coquito.

STEP 5: Incorporate Rum (Optional)

• If you prefer an alcoholic version, now’s the time to add the spiced rum.
• Pour the rum into the mixture, stirring thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.

STEP 6: Mix Thoroughly

• Use a whisk or blend on a low setting to ensure all ingredients blend together seamlessly.
• Continue until the mixture achieves a smooth, consistent texture.

STEP 7: Chill (Optional)

• For a refreshing effect, consider adding ice cubes to serving glasses.
• Alternatively, refrigerate the mixture for a couple of hours before serving.

STEP 8: Serve

• Pour the coquito into glasses.
• Optionally, garnish each glass with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon powder or add a cinnamon stick for an elegant touch.

STEP 9: Enjoy

Sip and savor this creamy, flavorful drink with friends and family during festive gatherings or special occasions!

Notes

• For a non-alcoholic version of this drink, omit the rum and add an extra cup of coconut cream.

• If you want a more intense coconut flavor, add an extra can of coconut cream.

• If the drink is too sweet, add a splash of lime juice or a pinch of salt.

• For extra festive flavor, add a few drops of almond extract.

• For a thicker texture, add a cup of full-fat coconut milk.

• To make a vegan version of this drink, substitute the condensed milk with a vegan-friendly alternative, such as coconut condensed milk or coconut cream.

Nutrition Information

This carnation coquito recipe makes approximately 8 servings. Each serving contains approximately 160 calories, 9 grams of fat, 16 grams of carbohydrates, and 4 grams of protein.

How to Store Carnation Coquito?

This carnation coquito recipe can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. To store, transfer the mixture to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator.

Variations

• To make a spiced carnation coquito, add a pinch of ground ginger, cardamom, and/or black pepper.

• To make a tropical carnation coquito, add a splash of pineapple juice or mango puree.

• To make a boozy carnation coquito, add an extra cup of rum.

• To make a creamy carnation coquito, add a cup of full-fat coconut milk.

• To make a vegan carnation coquito, substitute the condensed milk with a vegan-friendly alternative, such as coconut condensed milk or coconut cream.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What is carnation coquito?

A1. Carnation Coquito is a traditional Caribbean eggnog-style drink made from coconut milk, condensed milk, spices, and rum. It’s a creamy and delicious holiday drink that’s sure to bring holiday cheer to any celebration.

Q2. What does carnation coquito taste like?

A2. Carnation Coquito has a creamy and smooth texture with a subtle coconut flavor. The rum adds a boozy kick, while the spices give it a festive flavor.

Q3. Is carnation coquito alcoholic?

A3. Yes, carnation coquito is traditionally made with rum, which is an alcoholic beverage. However, it can be made without the rum for a non-alcoholic version.

Q4. How long does carnation coquito last in the refrigerator?

A4. Carnation Coquito can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Q5. Can I make carnation coquito with a vegan alternative?

A5. Yes, you can make carnation coquito with a vegan alternative, such as coconut condensed milk or coconut cream.

Q6. What is the best way to store carnation coquito?

A6. The best way to store carnation coquito is to transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator.

Q7. Can I make carnation coquito in advance?

A7. Yes, you can make carnation coquito in advance for stress-free entertaining. The mixture can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Conclusion

Carnation Coquito is a traditional Caribbean eggnog-style drink made from coconut milk, condensed milk, spices, and rum. It’s a creamy and delicious holiday drink that’s sure to bring holiday cheer to any celebration. 

This recipe is easy to make and can be made in advance for stress-free entertaining. Whether you enjoy it as a dessert or a festive cocktail, this carnation coquito recipe will become a favorite in no time.

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