Coquito

I would rather drink Coquitos instead of eggnog during the holidays. I did not see my favorite version posted so I am sharing it with my Beverage Forum buddies for the holidays. Time to make does not include chill time so plan accordingly. Happy Holidays!

• Ready In: 25 mins
• Serves: 24

Ingredients

• 2 1⁄4 cups water
• 2  pieces lime zest, thick strips of zest
• 25  cinnamon sticks
• 2 1⁄3 cups sugar
• 1 (14 ounce) can unsweetened coconut milk
• 1 (12 ounce) can evaporated milk
• 1⁄4 cup pure vanilla extract
• 3  large  egg yolks (optional)
• 2 1⁄4 cups light rum (Bacardi)

Directions

1. Simmer water, lime zest and 1 cinnamon stick in a pot until the water turns golden, about 15 minutes.
2. Strain into a Pyrex bowl or extra large glass measuring cup (or something that can withstand the heat) and refrigerate until chilled, for 1 hour or even up to 1 week.
3. Whisk the sugar, coconut milk, evaporated milk, vanilla, egg yolks and rum into the chilled mixture, until the sugar dissolves.
4. Refrigerate for about 1 - 2 hours.
5. Stir well and serve in small chilled martini or cordial glasses. Add the remaining cinnamon sticks to each glass as garnish.