The perfect ratio of cream cascading through a blend of coffee liqueur and vodka creates the best White Russian. Whip up this cocktail like a master bartender in only 5 minutes!
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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.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
A Black Russian is simply a White Russian without the cream. The cream creates a more dessert-like, indulgent drink.
You can’t beat heavy cream for the creamiest, most delicious White Russian!
By far, Kahlua is the best option! It’s sweet and has a moderately bold coffee flavor.
While you can mix the vodka and coffee liqueur together ahead of time, add ice and cream last minute!
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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!
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