The History Behind 787 Coffee's Beloved Coquito Latte | Traditional Puerto Rican Drink
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Ask any Puerto Rican about their favorite holiday drink, and chances are they'll mention coquito. This creamy and luscious concoction, made with coconut cream, rum, and a blend of warm spices, has become a beloved part of the culture and traditions of Puerto Rico. In recent years, however, coquito has undergone an evolution, thanks to the growing popularity of coquito lattes. But how did coquito come about in the first place? And what factors have contributed to the rise of its latte counterpart? In this blog post, we'll take a deep dive into the fascinating history behind Coquito our Coquito Latte and explore its evolution over time.
When you visit a 787 Coffee Shop
Try our Rum Infused Coquito Latte.
The History:
Coquito (which means "little coconut" in Spanish) is a traditional holiday drink that originated in Puerto Rico. There are various recipes out there, but the main coquito ingredients will always include coconut milk, coconut cream, rum, and sweetened condensed milk. It can be flavored with different ingredients such as chocolate or fruit, but it's most commonly infused with cinnamon. The flavor is sort of a cross between boozy eggnog & Horchata.
Coquito has a long and rich history dating back to the early days of Puerto Rico. Some historians trace its origins to the Taino people, the indigenous inhabitants of the island, who used coconut milk and water in their cooking. Others believe that the drink was introduced by Spanish colonizers who brought rum with them to the island. Either way, the drink has deep roots in Puerto Rican culture and has been passed down from generation to generation.
The legend goes coquito was created in the 1950s after condensed milk was introduced in Puerto Rico. Because the combination of coconut water and rum was already a popular mixture, adding condensed milk was the obvious next step. No one knows who made the first coquito but its popularity took off in the 70s
Over Time:
Coquito evolved into a more sophisticated beverage, with each family adding their own unique twist to the recipe. Some prefer it sweeter and richer, while others opt for a spicier version. Traditionally, coquito is served during the Christmas season, with families and friends gathering for a holiday celebration. The drink is often poured into small shot glasses and sipped slowly, allowing the flavors to blend and develop.
In recent years, coquito has taken on a new form as a latte, thanks to the growing popularity of coffee culture and to 787 Coffee making it not just a holiday drink, but a daily choice for a delicious, sweet and pick treat. The coquito latte is a hybrid between the traditional Puerto Rican drink and the classic latte, combining the creaminess of coquito with the bold, roasted flavor of our double espresso. The first coquito latte was created by a Puerto Rican barista at 787 Coffee in New York City in 2015, and since then, it has become a favorite among coffee lovers across the country.
What makes Coquito latte so appealing:
Its versatility. It can be served hot or cold, depending on the season, and can be customized to suit any taste preference. Some coffee shops offer a vegan version of the drink, made with almond milk or other plant-based milks. Others spice it up with cinnamon or nutmeg, adding an extra layer of warmth and richness to the drink.
Iced Coquito Latte
Hot or Iced the Coquito Latte is a great pick me up treat!
Try it at any 787 Coffee shop. Google us.
Conclusion
Coquito latte is a testament to the enduring legacy and evolution of Puerto Rican culture. While the drink has undergone changes over the years, the core ingredients and traditions remain the same. Coquito continues to be a symbol of family, friendship, and celebration in Puerto Rico and beyond. As we enjoy our Coquito lattes this holiday season, let us take a moment to appreciate the history that went into making this beloved drink and raise a glass to the traditions that bring us together. Try a double shot Coquito latte at 787 coffee or get the coquito sauce that is sold at 787 Coffee, the perfect gift for the home barista or baker.