la preferida® cream of coconut
Rich in saturated fat and calories from coconut solids, with added sugars contributing significant carbohydrates per serving. Contains small amounts of trace minerals such as manganese and copper associated with coconut.
About
La Preferida® Cream of Coconut is a processed coconut product consisting of a thick, sweetened emulsion of coconut meat and coconut water, produced by the La Preferida brand, a long-established Latin American food company. The ingredient is characterized by its smooth, pourable consistency and rich coconut flavor, with added sweeteners and stabilizers to achieve uniform texture and extended shelf stability. Unlike unsweetened coconut cream used in Southeast Asian cooking, this branded product is formulated specifically for tropical and Caribbean beverages, desserts, and mixed drinks, where its pre-sweetened formulation eliminates the need for additional sugar.
Cream of coconut is distinct from coconut milk (a thinner liquid extract) and coconut cream (unsweetened, higher fat content). This product typically contains coconut solids suspended in liquid, with a fat content of approximately 17-20%, and is engineered for ease of use in both professional and home kitchens.
Culinary Uses
Cream of coconut is primarily employed in tropical beverage applications, most famously in piña coladas and other rum-based cocktails, where its sweetness and creamy texture create the signature richness of the drink. In Latin American and Caribbean cuisines, it is used as a base for desserts, flan, and dulce de leche preparations, as well as in puddings and custards. The product also appears in non-alcoholic beverages such as horchata variations and tropical smoothies. Its sweetened formulation makes it suitable for direct use without additional sugar adjustment, though it can be thinned with milk or water for sauces. Professional bartenders and home cooks alike favor this standardized product for consistency and convenience, particularly in high-volume settings.