Classic Cocktails & Drinks With A Funky Twist

White Russian

5 from 1 vote
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Updated: 05/08/21

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This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy

Consider a White Russian cocktail an adult milkshake on the rocks with its rich coffee flavor and bold, creamy notes. Vodka, coffee liquor, and heavy cream combine easily to make this classic cocktail that is simple and satisfying!

Glass of white russian cocktail with ice and coffee beans

This White Russian recipe is the perfect ratio of the trio of ingredients, and one of the most popular Kahlua drinks! By combining vodka and coffee liqueur, a Black Russian is made. Adding a splash of cream or half and half creates the second cocktail, a White Russian. It doesn’t get much easier. Or yummier!

Making white russian cocktail recipe in a glass with ice

White Russian Ingredients

One of the best parts of a White Russian drink is how easily it comes together with a simple trio of ingredients. Be sure to scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of the post for the full recipe including all measurements.

  • Good quality vodka
  • Coffee Liquor: Kahlua is our go to coffee liqueur.
  • Heavy cream: If you don’t have heavy cream, you could also use half and half or milk. The thicker options are more popular because they make the drink creamier. Milk is a staple in most kitchens and something most people will have on hand compared to heavy cream but may make the drink thinner. Use almond, oat or soy milk for a dairy-free option.
Glass of white russian cocktail with ice and cream being poured surrounded by coffee beans

How To Make A White Russian

Here is a brief overview of how this creamy cocktail comes together. For the full recipe, scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of the post.

  1. Fill a rocks glass with ice.
  2. Pour vodka followed by coffee liquor into the glass.
  3. Top with the heavy cream.
  4. Stir gently before drinking and enjoy!
Glass of white russian cocktail with ice and cream being poured surrounded by coffee beans

How To Serve

A White Russian is typically served in a small tumbler, often called an Old Fashioned Glass, on the rocks or with ice. To sweeten your cocktail, add more coffee liquor or cream.

two glasses of white russian cocktail with ice and coffee beans

White Russian Variations

Here are some yummy twists on the simple cocktail.

If you make this White Russian recipe or any of our other cocktails, let us know what you think by leaving a comment!

Glass of white russian cocktail with ice and coffee beans
5 from 1 vote

White Russian

Serves: 1 drink
(tap # to scale)
Prep: 5 minutes
Total: 5 minutes
With its rich coffee flavor and bold, creamy notes, a White Russian cocktail is simple to make and satisfying to enjoy!

Ingredients

  • 2 ounces Vodka
  • 1 ounce Coffee Liqueur like Kahlua
  • 1 ounce Heavy Cream Can also use half & half or milk

Instructions

  • Pour vodka and coffee liqueur into a glass with ice.
  • Pour the Heavy Cream around the top. Stir before drinking.
Author: Nathan Longley
Course: Drinks
Glass of white russian cocktail with ice and coffee beans

Did You Make This

White Russian

I’d love to see what you made! Tag me @shakedrinkrpt and hashtag it #shakedrinkrepeat!

Nathan Longley has been his wife’s personal bar tender for as long as he can remember. While he most often enjoys a cold beer, he is known to love our vodka gimlet.

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