Forget eggnog—Puerto Rico’s answer to the season’s quintessential drink is coquito, a creamy, rum-infused delight that has become the island’s holiday beverage par excellence. Its name, which means “little coconut,” hints at its star ingredient: a rich blend of coconut cream, sweetened condensed milk, and a generous pour of Puerto Rican rum.
Marco Polo Travelers—whether you’re staying with us this holiday season or just dreaming of your next stay—we invite you to try coquito as a delicious way to immerse yourself in Puerto Rico’s festive traditions, blending island warmth with holiday cheer. ¡Salud!
A Toast to Tradition
The origins of coquito are as rich and layered as the drink itself. While some tales suggest pre-Columbian roots or a Caribbean twist on eggnog, the most credible account links its rise to the 1950s. As evaporated and condensed milk became staples in Puerto Rican kitchens, they were combined with coconut and rum to create this holiday favorite. By the 1970s, coquito was firmly established as a holiday tradition.
This evolution mirrors Puerto Rico’s diverse cultural heritage. The drink’s similarity to Spanish ponche (milk-and-brandy possets) nods to colonial influences, while the use of coconut recalls ingredients introduced through African culinary traditions. And, of course, rum, derived from sugarcane, is a hallmark of Puerto Rican culture. For a deeper dive into the drink’s history, see El Nuevo Día’s excellent feature article in Spanish.
A Global Spotlight
Recently, the BBC hailed coquito as “Puerto Rico’s favorite holiday drink,” noting its importance during the island’s extended festive season, which stretches from Thanksgiving through mid-January. The article highlighted coquito’s role as a symbol of connection, with many Puerto Ricans sending homemade bottles to friends and family overseas, keeping the flavors of home alive wherever they are.
Coquito’s fame has spread far beyond Puerto Rico’s shores, with global outlets such as Food & Wine featuring it in holiday recipe collections. Its rising popularity reflects not only its irresistible taste but also its ability to encapsulate the spirit of Puerto Rican hospitality in every sip.
A Bottled Delight
For those seeking a ready-made indulgence, Ron del Barrilito offers a premium coquito that stands out in the commercial market. Crafted with their signature Tres Estrellas rum, this limited-edition beverage boasts a creamy texture and exceptional flavor, embodying the artisanal spirit of Puerto Rican traditions. Packaged in 750ml bottles with an alcohol content of 10%, Ron del Barrilito’s coquito ($32) and is available at select retailers, including El Hórreo de V. Suárez and Supermax locations in San Juan. For additional retail locations, use Ron del Barrilito’s store locator.
Make It Yourself: Classic Coquito Recipes
If you’d rather craft your own coquito at home, these recipes from two esteemed Puerto Rican culinary figures will transport you straight to the heart of the island’s holiday celebrations.
Try Carmen Aboy Valldejuli’s Traditional Coquito
Carmen Aboy Valldejuli was Puerto Rico’s most renowned cookbook author, often called the “Julia Child of Puerto Rican cuisine,” whose Cocina Criolla remains a culinary bible. Here, discover her original version and a new take provided by San Juan-raised food blogger Kim Caverness and her sister Hiliary.
Discover Chef Héctor Prieto’s Coquito with Fresh Coconut Milk
Try San Juan chef Héctor Prieto’s modern interpretation of coquito using fresh coconuts, which brings out an impressive depth of flavor.
Raise Your Glass
Whether you whip up a batch at home or snag a bottle of Ron del Barrilito’s easy-to-enjoy masterpiece, coquito is your passport to Puerto Rican holiday cheer. This Christmas, share a sip of tradition, culture, and warmth with family and friends—and toast to the enduring joy of this beloved island drink.
