These four-ingredient classic white Russian cocktails are perfect for any special gathering or party. No special equipment is needed, and you can make one in less than a minute.
This tasty cocktail has been around for decades, but it grew in popularity after the movie “The Big Lebowski” came out in 1998. This cocktail is a spinoff of the black Russian, which combines vodka and coffee liqueur. It originated in a bar in Brussels for the ambassador to Luxembourg in 1949. If you like this tasty cocktail, you need to try my chocolate martini and homemade eggnog.
Hubby and I love to entertain, but we both have very busy lives with two teenagers, two mischievous beagles, and a cat that is older than dirt. We have an awesome repertoire of delicious cocktails that can be made in less than five minutes with only a few ingredients. This cocktail is by far one of our favorites and one of the easiest.
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
See the complete list of ingredients below on the recipe card.
- Ice: such a simple ingredient
- Vodka: A mid-range vodka is perfect for this. I like Tito’s or Skyy.
- Kahlua: It is a coffee-flavored liqueur from Mexico. It can be found in the liqueur section of most local grocery stores. Although this is the standard for this drink, you can use any coffee liquor.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: For a lighter version, add 1 ounce of half and half or whole milk instead of 2 ounces of cream. It will not be as creamy or rich, but it will still be delicious.
How to Make a White Russian Cocktail
This is the summary version; for the complete list of ingredients and instructions, see the recipe card below.
Simply fill an Old Fashioned glass with ice. Pour one part vodka, one part Kahlúa, and one part heavy cream. Be sure to pour the cream slowly. There is no need to mix it as it looks even more inviting not mixed and as soon as you take one sip the cocktail will begin to mix on its own. If desired, serve with cocktail stirrers.
Presentation Tips
- These drinks are best not prepared ahead of time. The ice will melt, and the presentation of the billowing cream will not be there.
- When mixing the cocktails, pour the cream slowly.
- I love to serve these cocktails as soon as I make them, as the white cream against the dark, sweet Kahlúa looks very inviting.
- For best results, do not stir these cocktails before handing them to a guest. Simply include a short cocktail stirrer.
More Cocktail Recipes
White Russian Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients
- ice
- 2 ounces vodka
- 2 ounces Kahlúa
- 2 ounces heavy cream or half n half
Instructions
- Fill an old fashioned glass with ice.
- Pour one part vodka, one part Kahlúa and one part heavy cream (slowly) into glass. Do not mix. Serve with cocktail stirrers.
Notes
- These drinks are best not prepared ahead of time. The ice will melt, and the presentation of the billowing cream will not be there.
- When mixing the cocktails, pour the cream slowly.
- I love to serve these cocktails as soon as I make them, as the white cream against the dark, sweet Kahlúa looks very inviting.
- For best results, do not stir these cocktails before handing them to a guest. Simply include a short cocktail stirrer.
Nutrition
On the hunt for more delicious recipes? Follow Small Town Woman on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram.
https://www.smalltownwoman.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Beth-1.pdf
Lavanda
I’ve never had a White Russian before, but this post might finally push me to try it. It looks incredible!
Karen
This white Russian was delicious! Thanks for turning us on to them. This recipe is a keeper.
Janice
I have heard of a White Russian, but have not ever had one! They sound easy enough to make at home – thank you for sharing this recipe.
Beth Pierce
Thanks, Janice! Enjoy!
Marysa
I haven’t had a white russian in so long. This would be fun to make next time we have guests.
Tammy
My mom used to love a White Russian after dinner if we would go out. Thanks for a great memory
Beth Pierce
You are most welcome, Tammy!
Yeah Lifestyle
I’d never even tried a white Russian cocktail. I was intrigued to give it a go and wow – it tastes so good. I will definitely make more of these.
Andrea Thueson
I have always wanted to try making a white Russian. This was so tasty, the perfect ratios!
katerina
Yes, please! White Russian is my favorite cocktail! I can’t wait to try this recipe!
Sarah
I love how easy these are – and so good!
Betsy
This is a great end cap to the evening! My husband likes this just a touch more than me, but I still think it’s fantastic! Definitely easy, and fantastically delicious!
Jen
One of our favorite cocktails! So quick and easy to make too.
willie
This is my favorite drink of all time, just so delicious!