Yes, it is a coconut milk "beverage", but since I had it on hand, I tried it and it tasted great, and the texture was good since it is a thicker milk than say rice milk, or almond milk. I will definitely try the canned coconut milk at some point, as it should be thicker.

Just made this for Thanksgiving 2012...it was delicious - tasted exactly like the real thing! I did not detect any coconut flavor (I used Trader Joe's coconut milk (the one in a box) in the vanilla flavor). I didn't have cardamom on hand, so I didn't add it, but would love to next time I make it - which I definitely will! Leftovers are great heated up about 30 seconds in the microwave---comfort food - yum!