Coquito, a beloved Puerto Rican holiday drink, is known for its rich coconut flavor and warm, creamy texture. Typically enjoyed during Christmas and New Year celebrations, this festive beverage gets a vegan twist in this recipe. Infused with the warming spices of nutmeg and cloves, this Spiced Vegan Coquito takes the classic recipe to new heights, offering a flavor-packed and plant-based alternative that is sure to delight.
This vegan version swaps out the dairy ingredients traditionally used in coquito with coconut cream, coconut milk, and almond milk, making it rich, creamy, and indulgent without the use of animal products. The addition of nutmeg and cloves gives it an aromatic, spiced depth that enhances its holiday appeal.
Let’s dive into how to make this Spiced Vegan Coquito with Nutmeg and Cloves!
Base Ingredients- Spiced Vegan
These ingredients form the creamy, rich base of the spiced coquito:
- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk: This is the main base of the coquito. Almond milk is light but creamy and neutral, so it doesn’t overpower the other flavors.
- 1 cup coconut cream: Adds the signature rich and creamy texture to the coquito, along with a coconut flavor.
- 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut milk: Enhances the coconut flavor while contributing to the smooth texture of the drink.
- 1/2 cup white rum: Provides the traditional boozy kick, giving the drink its classic coquito character. This is optional, and the amount can be adjusted or omitted for a non-alcoholic version.
- 1/2 cup sugar (or more to taste): Sweetens the coquito. The amount of sugar can be adjusted based on preference, and using coconut sugar instead of regular sugar will impart a more earthy, caramel-like flavor.
Spices and Flavorings – Spiced Vegan
These ingredients give the coquito its warm, spiced flavor profile, perfect for cozying up on a chilly day:
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: An essential spice in coquito, creating warmth and depth. It’s what gives coquito its signature festive flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: A key ingredient for spiced coquito. It adds a deep, aromatic, and slightly sweet note that complements the cinnamon.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves: Adds a slightly sweet, peppery flavor that blends well with the cinnamon and nutmeg, giving the drink a complex and rich spice profile.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and overall flavor, rounding out the spices with richness.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors, preventing them from being too overpowering.
Optional Additions
These ingredients provide extra flavor and presentation, allowing you to customize the coquito:
- 1 cinnamon stick: Used as a garnish, this adds extra flavor infusion when stirred into the drink and boosts its visual appeal.
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup: An optional natural sweetener that adds a bit of extra depth to the sweetness, along with an earthy, rich flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Spiced Vegan Coquito with Nutmeg and Cloves
Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients
In a high-speed blender, add the almond milk, coconut cream, and unsweetened coconut milk. Blend on high until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated, creating a creamy base. The coconut cream will provide the richness that mimics traditional coquito, while the almond milk ensures the drink is light yet satisfying.
Step 2: Add the Spices Spiced Vegan
Once your base is smooth, add the cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend again to combine all the spices into the coconut-almond mixture. The combination of nutmeg and cloves adds a fragrant warmth to the drink, making it perfect for cozy holiday moments.
Step 3: Sweeten and Flavor
Add the sugar to the blender and taste the mixture. If you prefer a sweeter coquito, you can add a little more sugar or maple syrup at this point. Blend again to make sure the sweetener is evenly distributed.
Step 4: Add the Rum
Pour in the white rum for the traditional boozy kick. Blend briefly to ensure the alcohol is fully mixed in. If you want a non-alcoholic version, simply skip the rum and enjoy the rich, creamy coconut flavor without the alcohol.
Step 5: Chill and Infuse the Flavors
Transfer the blended coquito to a glass jar or pitcher. If you’d like, add a cinnamon stick to the mixture to infuse even more spice. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld together and develop. Chilling also helps thicken the drink, making it even more indulgent.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy – Spiced Vegan
Once the coquito is chilled, give it a good stir. Pour the coquito into small glasses, garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or nutmeg, and add the cinnamon stick for an extra touch of elegance. Serve immediately for a delightful holiday treat.
Tips for Perfecting Your Spiced Vegan Coquito
- Spices: If you prefer a spicier coquito, feel free to add a little more nutmeg or cloves to taste. The spices are what truly set this recipe apart, so make it as aromatic as you like.
- Sweetener: Adjust the level of sweetness to your preference. Coconut sugar, agave syrup, or maple syrup are great alternatives to refined sugar, adding additional depth to the flavor.
- Non-Alcoholic Option: For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the rum and replace it with an extra splash of coconut milk or a dash of vanilla extract.
- Make Ahead: Coquito is one of those drinks that gets even better the longer it sits, so feel free to prepare it a day or two in advance.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Shake or stir the drink before serving, as natural separation may occur.
Why You’ll Love This Spiced Vegan Coquito
- Indulgent and Creamy: The coconut cream and almond milk give this drink its signature silky texture, while the spices elevate the flavor.
- Warm and Festive: The addition of nutmeg, cloves, and cinnamon makes this a perfect drink for the holiday season.
- Plant-Based: This version of coquito is completely dairy-free and vegan, so it can be enjoyed by everyone.
- Easy to Make: With a few simple ingredients and a blender, this recipe comes together quickly and easily, making it perfect for holiday parties or family gatherings.
Conclusion – Spiced Vegan
This Spiced Vegan Coquito with Nutmeg and Cloves is the perfect plant-based version of a Puerto Rican holiday classic. The creamy coconut base, aromatic spices, and rich flavor make it a crowd-pleasing drink that’s both festive and comforting. Whether you’re celebrating the holidays or simply want a cozy drink to enjoy with friends and family, this vegan coquito is sure to impress. With its bold spices and creamy texture, it’s the perfect drink for any occasion. Cheers to a flavorful, plant-based holiday season!
