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Pistachio Coquito Recipe

4.8 from 320 reviews

A creamy, nutty twist on the classic Puerto Rican holiday drink, Pistachio Coquito blends pistachios with rich coconut milk, condensed milk, and warm spices. This smooth, festive cocktail is perfect for sharing during celebrations, offering a delightful balance of sweetness and spice with a hint of rum.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup shelled pistachios
  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
  • 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
  • 1 can (15 oz) cream of coconut
  • 1 cup white rum (optional)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp nutmeg
  • A pinch of salt

Garnish

  • Crushed pistachios for garnish

Instructions

  1. Soak the pistachios: Soak 1 cup of shelled pistachios in hot water for 10 minutes. This softens them to ensure a smooth and creamy texture when blended.
  2. Blend the base: Drain the soaked pistachios and add them to a blender. Pour in the coconut milk (13.5 oz), cream of coconut (15 oz), evaporated milk (12 oz), and sweetened condensed milk (14 oz). Blend until the mixture is silky smooth.
  3. Add flavors: Transfer the blended mixture to a saucepan. Add ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Warm the mixture over low heat for about five minutes, being careful not to boil it to preserve the flavors and texture.
  4. Cool and mix: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the mixture cool completely. Once cooled, stir in 1 cup white rum if desired, gently mixing to combine.
  5. Strain and store: Pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer to remove any remaining solids. Use a funnel to fill glass bottles with the strained coquito. Refrigerate and chill for at least two hours before serving.
  6. Serve and enjoy: Shake the bottle well before pouring. Serve the coquito in small glasses and garnish with a sprinkle of crushed pistachios on top for added texture and flavor.

Notes

  • For a non-alcoholic version, omit the white rum.
  • Make sure not to boil the mixture to prevent curdling and to maintain a smooth texture.
  • Chilling the coquito enhances the flavors and provides the best taste experience.
  • The soaking step is essential for a creamy blend and smoother drink consistency.
  • Store coquito in the refrigerator and consume within 5-7 days for optimal freshness.

Keywords: Coquito, Pistachio Coquito, Puerto Rican drink, holiday cocktail, creamy coconut drink, pistachio recipe, festive beverage