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White Russian Recipe

White Russian Recipe

Master this homemade White Russian recipe - the best easy cocktail recipe for vodka lovers! Learn how to make the perfect balance of premium vodka, coffee liqueur, and fresh cream for a velvety, indulgent craft cocktail that's simple enough for beginners but impressive enough for cocktail connoisseurs.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
3 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
A close-up shot of a White Russian in a crystal rocks glass, showcasing three distinct layers - deep brown coffee liqueur at the bottom, clear vodka in the middle, and a pristine layer of cream floating on top. Soft, warm bar lighting casts gentle shadows through the glass, highlighting the swirling patterns where the cream slowly integrates with the spirits. Large, crystal-clear ice cubes glisten beneath the surface, while tiny coffee beans rest alongside the glass on a polished wooden bar top, adding depth and context to this classic cocktail.

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">50ml vodka</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">25ml coffee liqueur (Kahlúa or Tia Maria)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">30ml fresh cream</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Coffee beans for garnish (optional)</li></ul>

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🍽️ Serving Size:
🔥 Calories:
🥑 Fat:
🧈 Saturated Fat:
🍞 Carbohydrates:
🍭 Sugar:
🍗 Protein:
🫀 Cholesterol:
🧂 Sodium:

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"><li class="equipment-single-item">Old-fashioned/rocks glass</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Jigger or measuring device</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Bar spoon</li></ul>

Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>Add several large ice cubes to a rocks glass, filling it about two-thirds full. Using quality ice is important as it chills the drink properly without excessive dilution.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>Pour 50ml of vodka directly over the ice. Use a good quality vodka as its clean profile allows the coffee notes to shine while providing the alcoholic foundation.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>Add 25ml of coffee liqueur to the glass. Pour it slowly over the back of a bar spoon to create a layered effect if desired, though the ingredients will eventually be mixed.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>Gently pour 30ml of fresh cream over the back of a clean bar spoon held just above the liquid surface. This technique allows the cream to float on top of the cocktail rather than immediately mixing in, creating the characteristic layered appearance.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>For presentation, leave the drink layered and let the guest stir it themselves, or gently stir the cocktail with your bar spoon to create a homogenous, creamy mixture with a beautiful tan color.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Garnish with a few coffee beans on top of the cream layer if desired, adding a subtle coffee aroma that enhances the drinking experience. Serve immediately while cold and fresh.</li></ol>

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about this delicious recipe right here.

What ingredients are used in White Russian Recipe?

A classic White Russian requires three essential ingredients: vodka (50ml), coffee liqueur like Kahlúa or Tia Maria (25ml), and fresh cream (30ml). Optional coffee beans can be added as garnish for a sophisticated presentation.

How to make White Russian Recipe at home?

Learn how to make White Russian Recipe by filling a rocks glass with ice, pouring vodka and coffee liqueur over the ice, then gently layering fresh cream on top by pouring it over the back of a bar spoon. You can either leave it layered for visual appeal or stir gently to create a homogenous, creamy mixture. Garnish with coffee beans.

Can I substitute the cream in this cocktail for a dairy-free alternative?

Absolutely! Coconut cream works brilliantly as a dairy-free alternative, offering a complementary tropical note. Almond, oat, or soy creamers also work well. For texture closest to dairy cream, look for barista-style plant-based alternatives, which have been formulated to mix well with beverages.

What's the difference between a White Russian and a Black Russian?

The primary difference is the cream component. A Black Russian contains only vodka and coffee liqueur, making it stronger and more spirit-forward, while a White Russian adds cream for a richer, dessert-like quality. Think of the White Russian as the creamy, indulgent evolution of its darker counterpart.

Why does my cream always sink instead of creating distinct layers?

Cream sinking typically happens when it's poured too quickly or directly into the drink. For perfect layers, ensure your cream is cold and fresh, pour it slowly over the back of a bar spoon held just above the surface, and avoid disturbing the glass afterward. Higher fat content cream (double cream) will float better.

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The layering technique makes it look like something from a fancy bar, but it's so easy to make at home!", "name": "Silky Smooth Perfection", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Miguel Rodriguez", "datePublished": "2024-05-15", "reviewBody": "Better than any café version I've ever had! The ratio of ingredients is spot on, and the tip about pouring cream over a bar spoon really elevates the presentation. My new favorite nightcap.", "name": "Café Quality at Home", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Amara Okafor", "datePublished": "2024-05-12", "reviewBody": "This is literally dessert in a glass! The creamy texture combined with the coffee notes is divine. I've made this three times this week already - dangerously delicious and so simple to prepare.", "name": "Decadent Treat", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Lars Johansson", "datePublished": "2024-05-08", "reviewBody": "I've been making White Russians wrong my entire life! The proper layering technique makes all the difference in both presentation and taste. This recipe has the perfect proportions for a rich, satisfying cocktail.", "name": "Game Changer", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Yuki Tanaka", "datePublished": "2024-05-03", "reviewBody": "Impressive and elegant! I served these at our dinner party and my guests couldn't stop complimenting the presentation and flavor. 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