Frozen Coconut Tres Leches Mocha

I know. You're welcome. Perfect for a hot summer day!

The interesting thing about blogging recipes the last few years is that it's helped me step out of my comfort zone. I saw a recipe in a magazine {a page I tore out a few years ago & saved} and recently thought - what if I change that, add that & that, and do it this way instead? I never would have even tried something like that in the past. But I'm oh so glad I did, because this.is.yummy.

Technically, my version here is Quatro Leches because I added half & half to it - bonus! I'm all about giving my readers more. :) The other great thing is that it makes a pitcher of the drink, which you can blend in batches to serve. So make it ahead, chill it, and invite your friends over!

Frozen Coconut Tres Leches Mocha

2 cups milk
1 cup half & half
1 can {14 oz} unsweetened coconut milk
2/3 cup sweetened condensed milk
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
4 packets Starbucks Via instant coffee {or 4 heaping teaspoons instant coffee}
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: 4 tablespoons Torani coconut syrup or 1-2 teaspoons coconut extract
Toppings: whipped cream, toasted coconut, mini chocolate chips

In saucepan, combine milk, half & half, coconut milk, and sweetened condensed milk. Bring to a simmer over med-low heat, stirring occasionally. Whisk in cocoa powder and instant coffee until well-combined.

Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla and optional coconut flavorings. Adding in the optional flavorings helps give it that extra coconut punch! Cool at room temp for 20 minutes. Pour into pitcher and chill well in refrigerator. Mixture is good for a day or two. {I tried some after 3 days and it was going bad.} Recipe can be cut in half if needed.

When ready to serve, simply blend chilled mixture with desired amount of ice. I used a Magic Bullet - put ice to the max line, then poured in liquid to top of ice and blended well. Add desired toppings. Can also be served as an iced mocha, but I find it too similar to a glass of chocolate milk. Blending takes it to the next level!

What's your favorite blended drink?

If you like blended drinks, you might also enjoy:
 ~ Chococarmaccino
 ~ Mocha Oatmeal Frappe
 ~ Creamy Root Beer Freeze
 ~ Fruity Lemonade Slush {posted at The Frugal Girls}

This post linked to:
 ~ WFMW at We Are THAT Family
 ~ Chic & Crafty Party at The Frugal Girls
 ~ I'm Lovin' It at TidyMom 

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Have a blessed and refreshing day friends!