Puerto Rican Chocolate Coquito: A Rich and Creamy Holiday Drink

Coquito (meaning “little coconut” in Spanish) is Puerto Rico’s answer to eggnog. Traditionally made with coconut milk, sweetened condensed milk, spices, and rum, it’s a decadent, creamy drink served during Christmas and New Year’s celebrations. Our Weight Watchers-friendly version swaps out high-calorie ingredients for lighter alternatives and adds a luscious chocolate twist, making it a crowd-pleaser for both health-conscious adults and chocolate lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Coquito

• Authentic flavor with a healthy twist: All the warmth of cinnamon, nutmeg, and coconut, plus cocoa, without the heavy cream or excess sugar.
• Weight Watchers-friendly: Lower in Smart Points than traditional recipes, thanks to smart substitutions.
• Quick and easy: Ready in 10 minutes with no cooking required.
• Versatile: Perfect as a non-alcoholic treat or spiked with rum for a festive cocktail.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or light coconut milk for extra creaminess)
• ½ cup light coconut milk (canned, unsweetened)
• ½ cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk
• ¼ cup sugar-free sweetened condensed milk (or substitute with ¼ cup powdered erythritol for zero points)
• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• ⅛ tsp ground cloves
• 1–2 tbsp rum (optional; adds 1–2 points per serving)
• Ice (for serving)
• Cinnamon sticks and dark chocolate shavings (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Blend the Base
In a blender, combine the unsweetened almond milk, light coconut milk, vanilla almond milk, sugar-free condensed milk, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Blend until smooth and frothy (about 1–2 minutes).

Step 2: Taste and Adjust
Give the mixture a taste. If you prefer it sweeter, add a zero-calorie sweetener like stevia or monk fruit. For a boozy kick, stir in 1–2 tablespoons of rum (optional).

Step 3: Chill and Serve
Pour the coquito into a pitcher and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld. Serve over ice in small glasses, garnished with a cinnamon stick and dark chocolate shavings.

Nutritional Information

(Per ½-cup serving without alcohol)

• Calories: 60
• Protein: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fat: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Smart Points: 3

(With 1 tbsp rum: Add 1–2 Smart Points per serving.)

Tips for Success

1. Keep it Creamy: For a richer texture, use full-fat light coconut milk, but adjust points accordingly.
2. Alcohol-Free Option: Skip the rum for a family-friendly version.
3. Make It Ahead: Coquito tastes even better after chilling overnight. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
4. Customize the Flavor: Add a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick or swap cocoa powder for cacao nibs for extra crunch.

Serving Suggestions

• Holiday Gatherings: Serve in mini shot glasses as a festive appetizer.
• Dessert Pairing: Pair with fresh fruit or a small piece of dark chocolate for a satisfying WW-friendly dessert.
• Brunch Bonus: Enjoy alongside a veggie omelet or whole-grain pancakes for a tropical twist.

Why This Recipe Works for Weight Watchers

Traditional coquito can pack up to 10+ Smart Points per serving due to heavy cream, sugar, and full-fat coconut milk. This version slashes points by:

• Using unsweetened almond milk and light coconut milk.
• Swapping sugar-laden condensed milk for a sugar-free alternative.
• Portion control: A little goes a long way with its rich, chocolatey flavor!

With its velvety texture, warm spices, and indulgent cocoa flavor, Puerto Rican Chocolate Coquito proves that holiday treats don’t have to be off-limits. Whether you’re honoring family traditions or starting new ones, this drink brings the taste of Puerto Rico to your table in a way that aligns with your health goals. Salud to a joyful, balanced holiday season!