The perfect ratio of cream cascading through a blend of coffee liqueur and vodka creates the best White Russian Recipe. Whip up this cocktail like a master bartender in only 5 minutes!
You only need 3 ingredients and a few minutes to make a White Russian at home. For someone who is absolutely obsessed with my Espresso Martini Recipe, this cocktail was a treat to make. A White Russian is the more rich and creamy “cousin” of an espresso martini, with a touch more sweetness and less smack-you-in-the-face coffee flavor.
Simply put, a White Russian is so much better than dessert. Or why not have both? A piece of Fantasy Fudge, Chocolate Eclair Cake, or a decadent Pots de Crème are matches made in heaven with this cocktail!
White Russian Ingredients
You really can’t get much simpler than the ingredients for a White Russian! Here they are:
- Vodka – use whatever unflavored vodka you like. You could also try vanilla vodka!
- Coffee liqueur – Kahlua is the best option. If you don’t have Kahlua, you can also try Tia Maria which is slightly lighter and sweeter, or Baileys which is also lighter and creamier.
- Heavy cream – cream is typically poured slowly into the vodka and coffee liqueur mixture, causing it to “float” on top and then slowly fall into the cocktail. While you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead (or even non-dairy milk), the lower fat content won’t create the same dramatic effect and creamy, luxurious finish.
How to Make a White Russian
Make a White Russian cocktail in just 3 steps!
Step 1: Fill an old fashioned glass most of the way up with ice.
Step 2: Add vodka and coffee liqueur. Stir.
Step 3: Slowly top with cream.
Step 4: Serve as-is, or mix.
My Pro Tip
Tips for Success
Use good-quality ingredients. Since this drink is only 3 ingredients, good-quality vodka, coffee liqueur (Kahlua is best), and cream is essential!
Add ice last-minute. Wait until you’re ready to make the cocktail before adding ice to the glass. We don’t want diluted drinks here!
Add cream slowly. Slowly drizzle cream throughout the cocktail which creates that signature White Russian layered effect. Pouring too quickly will cause the cream to sink, right away, to the bottom.
Garnish for presentation. Make your cocktail restaurant-quality by adding a pretty garnish like a touch of cocoa powder, instant espresso powder, cinnamon, or a dollop of Homemade Whipped Cream.
Frequently Asked Questions
A White Russian is creamy and sweet, with a light coffee flavor and a little punch from the vodka!
A Black Russian is simply a White Russian without the cream. The cream creates a more dessert-like, indulgent drink.
By far, Kahlua is the best option! It’s sweet and has a moderately bold coffee flavor.
While the cream mellows out the alcohol’s intensity, a White Russian certainly has a kick, so drink responsibly!
While you can use milk or half-and-half, the cocktail won’t be as rich and the layered effect that’s signature to a White Russian won’t be as prominent.
While you can mix the vodka and coffee liqueur together ahead of time, add ice and cream last minute!
More Cocktail Recipes You’ll Love!
If you’ve tried this White Russian Recipe or any other recipe on my website, please let me know in the comments below. I love hearing from you. Please consider leaving a 🌟 star rating while you are here!
Classic White Russian Recipe
Equipment
- Cocktail jigger (or other way to measure ounces)
- Old-fashioned glass (or other glass for serving)
Ingredients
- 1 ½ ounces vodka
- 1 ½ ounces coffee liqueur, Kahlua is the best option
- 1 ounce heavy cream
- Ice
Instructions
- Fill an old fashioned glass three-quarters of the way up with ice.
- Pour in the vodka and coffee liqueur. Stir.
- Slowly top with cream. Pouring the cream too quickly will cause it to immediately settle at the bottom of the glass.
- Serve as-is, or mix and enjoy!
Video
Notes
- While you can use half-and-half or non-dairy milk, lower fat options will tend to sink to the bottom of the glass instead of creating that signature layered effect. Plus the cocktail will be less rich!
- Don’t have an old-fashioned glass? Serve in another type of lowball glass or even a martini glass, “up” instead of on the rocks.
- Try garnishing with a little instant espresso powder, cocoa powder, or cinnamon!
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
I’m a huge fan of espresso martinis and have always been wanting to try!!
Awesome! So glad it turned out well for you 🙂
Grace
White Russians were the rage back in the day, and they are now enjoying a retro resurgence. I must say that this recipe is without question the best I have ever tasted – back then or now.
Delicious!!!
This is so wonderful to hear! Cheers!
Grace
You are so right…I am a huge espresso martini fan and this White Russian is now my new favorite!
HA! I totally agree! 🙂
Grace