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My White Russian cocktail is creamy, coffee forward, and just sweet enough. This rich drink tastes way better than the 30 seconds it takes to whip up!

a white Russian cocktail with heavy cream in a rocks glass.

I love coffee flavored cocktails like the espresso martini and the Colorado bulldog. When it comes to Kahlua cocktails none are as famous as the White Russian. And for good reason! It's super easy and tastes like a boozy iced coffee!

Why Our Recipe Is the Best: A Sprinkle of Food Science

Use Heavy Cream Not Half and Half: This makes the drink super rich and creamy and helps tame the alcohol taste a bit.
Use Large Ice Cubes: They melt more slowly which prevents the drink from becoming watered down.

ingredients including Absolut Vodka, Kahlua, and heavy whipping cream.

Ingredient Notes and Shopping Tips

Vodka: With only 3 ingredients each one matters! Pick a middle of the road vodka. My favorite is Absolut. Tito's and Grey Goose are also great. New Amsterdam is a good budget option. Vanilla vodka is a fun twist to try too.
Kahlua: This is my favorite coffee liquor. Mr. Black is also a decent choice although slightly more bitter.
Heavy Cream: You could use half and half for a lighter drink but its not something I'd suggest otherwise. Avoid milk which will make the drink thin and watery.
- If going dairy free you must use a substitute high in fat. Our go to is Country Crock's plant based cream.

Krystle's Tips: Steal My Culinary School Secrets

Use Large Ice Cubes: They melt slowly and won't dilute your drink.
Chill Your Glass: 10-15 Minutes in the freezer will help keep your drink nice and cold.
Stir or Shake: While the layered effect looks super cool, we found this drink actually tastes best when everything is mixed together.

a white Russian drink with bottles of Absolut Vodka and Kahlua in the background.

More Classic Cocktails

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📖 Recipe

White Russian

My White Russian cocktail is creamy, coffee forward, and just sweet enough. This rich drink tastes way better than the 30 seconds it takes to whip up!