The White Russian is a classic cocktail that combines the rich flavors of vodka, coffee liqueur, and heavy cream. This creamy and indulgent drink is perfect for a cozy evening or as a dessert cocktail. Its smooth texture and balanced sweetness make it a favorite among many.
If you don't typically stock coffee liqueur or heavy cream at home, you might need to make a trip to the supermarket. Coffee liqueur is a sweet, coffee-flavored liqueur that adds depth to the cocktail. Heavy cream gives the drink its creamy texture and richness, so make sure to pick up these ingredients if you don't already have them.

Ingredients For White Russian Cocktail Recipe
Vodka: A clear distilled alcoholic beverage that forms the base of the cocktail.
Coffee liqueur: A sweet, coffee-flavored liqueur that adds depth and richness to the drink.
Heavy cream: A thick, high-fat cream that gives the cocktail its creamy texture and smoothness.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
When preparing a White Russian, consider chilling your vodka and coffee liqueur beforehand. This ensures the drink remains cold longer without diluting the flavors too quickly. Additionally, use a bar spoon to gently stir the heavy cream into the mixture, creating a beautiful layered effect that enhances both the visual appeal and the texture of the cocktail.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
vodka - Substitute with gin: Gin can provide a different botanical flavor profile while maintaining the alcoholic base.
vodka - Substitute with white rum: White rum offers a sweeter and slightly tropical twist to the cocktail.
coffee liqueur - Substitute with chocolate liqueur: Chocolate liqueur adds a rich, sweet flavor that complements the creaminess of the drink.
coffee liqueur - Substitute with amaretto: Amaretto provides a nutty, almond flavor that pairs well with the cream.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream adds a tropical flair and a rich, creamy texture.
heavy cream - Substitute with half-and-half: Half-and-half offers a lighter, less rich alternative while still providing creaminess.
Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Cocktail
How To Store / Freeze This Cocktail
- To keep your White Russian cocktail fresh, store the vodka and coffee liqueur in a cool, dark place. This helps maintain their flavors and prevents any degradation.
- For the heavy cream, ensure it is kept in the refrigerator at all times. Use an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing any unwanted odors from other foods.
- If you have leftover mixed White Russian, pour it into a glass bottle or jar with a tight-sealing lid. Store it in the refrigerator and consume within 24 hours for the best taste.
- To freeze the White Russian, pour the mixture into an ice cube tray. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag or container. This method allows you to enjoy a chilled drink without diluting it with ice.
- When ready to serve, simply place the frozen cubes in a glass and let them melt slightly before enjoying. Alternatively, blend the frozen cubes for a slushy version of the White Russian.
- Always label your containers with the date of preparation to keep track of freshness. This is especially important for the heavy cream, which has a shorter shelf life compared to the vodka and coffee liqueur.
- Avoid storing the White Russian in direct sunlight or near heat sources, as this can alter the flavors and spoil the heavy cream.
- If you notice any changes in the smell, taste, or appearance of your stored White Russian, it's best to discard it and prepare a fresh batch.
How To Reheat Leftovers
- Pour the White Russian cocktail into a heat-resistant glass or mug.
- Place the glass in a microwave and heat on medium power for 10-15 seconds. This will gently warm the vodka and coffee liqueur without curdling the heavy cream.
- Alternatively, you can use a double boiler. Fill a saucepan with water and bring it to a simmer. Place the glass with the White Russian in the saucepan, ensuring the water level is below the rim of the glass. Heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring gently.
- For a more luxurious touch, consider adding a splash of hot coffee to the cocktail. This will not only warm it up but also enhance the coffee flavor.
- If you prefer a cold drink, simply shake the leftover White Russian with fresh ice in a cocktail shaker for 15-20 seconds, then strain into a chilled glass.
Best Tools for This Recipe
Glass: Use a rocks glass or an old-fashioned glass to serve the cocktail.
Ice: Essential for chilling the drink and maintaining its refreshing quality.
Jigger: A measuring tool to ensure precise amounts of vodka and coffee liqueur.
Bar spoon: Ideal for gently stirring the cocktail to combine the ingredients without over-mixing.
Strainer: Optional, but can be used if you prefer to strain the drink into a fresh glass after mixing.
Cocktail shaker: Optional, if you prefer to shake the ingredients before pouring over ice for a slightly different texture.
How to Save Time on Making This Cocktail
Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out vodka, coffee liqueur, and heavy cream in advance to streamline the process.
Use a cocktail shaker: Combine vodka and coffee liqueur in a shaker with ice, then pour into the glass to save stirring time.
Batch preparation: Make a larger batch of the cocktail mix and store it in the fridge, adding heavy cream when serving.
Chill glasses: Keep your glasses in the freezer so they are ready to use, saving time on chilling the drink.

White Russian Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 oz Vodka
- 1 oz Coffee liqueur
- 1 oz Heavy cream
Instructions
- Fill a glass with ice.
- Add vodka and coffee liqueur.
- Top with heavy cream and stir gently.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
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