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How to make a classic White Russian cocktail. Made with vodka, Kahlua (coffee liqueur), and cream it’s super easy to whip up and makes the perfect after-dinner drink.
If you love an espresso martini you’ll love a White Russian just as much! It’s sweet and creamy with a delicious coffee kick thanks to the Kahlua liqueur. This cocktail has been around since the 1960s yet, as delicious as it is, it didn’t become popular until the 1998 release of the cult-classic The Big Lebowski. In the film Jeffery “The Dude” Lebowski is seen drinking a White Russian (also referred to as a “Caucasian”) a total of nine times which means it’s got to be good, right?
The White Russian quickly became the go-to after dinner or pretty much any time cocktail whether it’s for a dinner party, celebrating with friends, or a fun weekend treat it always hits the spot. The cream really mellows the flavor and adds richness making it taste almost like a grown-up iced latte, it’s so good! See my full recipe below including some fun variations to try too.
What you need to make this recipe
Vodka – the vodka doesn’t need to be super expensive and high quality but get one you enjoy. I really like Tito’s vodka (photo above).
Kahlua – this is a sweet coffee-based liqueur made with 100% arabica coffee, rum and sugar. If you don’t have this particular brand you can use any other coffee liqueur you like such as Tia Maria.
Heavy cream – it wouldn’t be a White Russian without the cream!
How to make a White Russian
1. Fill a glass with ice and add the vodka.
2. Top with kahlua.
3. Stir everything so it’s thoroughly mixed.
4. Top with heavy cream, serve.
Pro tips for making this recipe
- If you want to take this cocktail up a notch why not top it with shavings of chocolate (milk, dark or white).
- You can also drizzle the inside of your glass with chocolate or salted caramel sauce, it’s delicious!
- This cocktail is best served in a lowball (short) glass.
- Make sure to fill the glass with ice, this cocktail is best served chilled!
- If cream is too heavy for you you can replace it with half and half or milk if you prefer (also see my dairy free alternative below).
- To avoid the cream mixing completely into the cocktail pour it into the glass on the back of a spoon so it sits just on the top.
- Stir the cocktail very gently after adding the cream you want to see the iconic black and white layers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it taste like?
It tastes like a creamy and delicious iced coffee with a kick. The alcohol flavor is not overpowering because of the sugar and sweetness of Kahlua and the richness of the cream that’s added on top. It’s perfect for those that love dessert cocktails like an Espresso Martini, Irish Coffee, or a Chocolate Martini!
Why is it called a White Russian?
Both Black Russian and White Russian cocktails exist! The Russian part comes from the addition of Vodka, the black is the dark Kahlua liqueur (stop here to make a Black Russian) and the white comes from the addition of cream.
How do I make it dairy free?
A great dairy-free and also vegan alternative is to use coconut milk (full fat) or oat milk although it will change the flavor slightly.
Fun variations to try
If you’re looking for some fun variations to try here are some ideas;
Vodka substitutes
Instead of vodka, you could use whiskey, rum (white or spiced), or tequila. You can also use any flavored vodka you like, think of dessert flavors like gingerbread, salted caramel, or pumpkin spice.
Cream substitutes
If you’re looking for a fun twist you could use Bailey’s Irish Cream or eggnog instead of heavy cream, this is especially good during the holidays! You can also top the cocktail with a scoop of ice cream for a dessert and drink all in one!
Different flavors
A drop or two of vanilla extract will give a delicious richness and vanilla flavor (you can also use vanilla vodka). For the holidays why not use peppermint vodka or add a splash of Creme de Menthe.
If you’ve tried this White Russian then don’t forget to leave a rating and let me know how you got on in the comments below, I love hearing from you!
White Russian
Ingredients
- 2 oz Vodka
- 2 oz Kahlua or coffee liqueur
- 2 oz Cream
Instructions
- Fill a lowball glass with ice then add the vodka and Kahula.
- Stir together then top with cream. You can carefully pour it over the ice or on the back of a spoon.
- Gently mix before serving.
Notes
- If you want to take this cocktail up a notch why not top it with shavings of chocolate (milk, dark or white).
- This cocktail is best served in a lowball (short) glass.
- Make sure to fill the glass with ice, this cocktail is best served chilled!
- If cream is too heavy for you you can replace it with half and half or milk if you prefer (also see my dairy free alternative below).
- To avoid the cream mixing completely into the cocktail pour it into the glass on the back of a spoon so it sits just on the top.
- Stir the cocktail very gently after adding the cream you want to see the iconic black and white layers.
- Looking for variations? why not try swapping the vodka for whiskey or tequila. Some recipes also like to replace the cream with a scoop of ice cream which is a fun alternative to try as an after-dinner cocktail.
Nutrition
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