This White Russian cocktail recipe combines vodka, coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa), and cream for a smooth, creamy drink with a slightly sweet coffee flavor. Made with just 3 ingredients and ready in minutes, this classic White Russian is perfect for weekend happy hours or an after-dinner treat.
Years ago, my husband and I started experimenting with cocktails at home as a fun weekend date night tradition. We’ve tried everything from Frozen Chocolate Mudslides to Lemon Drop Martinis and even a Peanut Butter Cup Martini. One favorite twist is my Salted Caramel White Russian, but this classic White Russian cocktail is still our go-to.
What is a White Russian?
A White Russian is a classic cocktail made with vodka, coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa), and cream, served over ice. The traditional White Russian ratio is 2 oz vodka, 1 oz coffee liqueur, and 1 oz cream per glass.
For a slightly sweeter twist, you can add Bailey’s Irish Cream. You can also use milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter White Russian drink.
Quick Look: White Russian Cocktail
- Taste: Creamy, slightly sweet, with a hint of coffee
- Texture: Smooth and creamy
- Total Time: 4 minutes
- Skill Level: Beginner
- Tools: Rocks glass and spoon
- Servings: 2 cocktails
- Substitutions: Use milk or half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter White Russian.
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Ingredient Notes
See printable recipe card below for exact measurements and instructions.
- Vodka: A smooth vodka works best. Tito’s is a great option for this classic cocktail.
- Coffee Liqueur: Kahlúa is the traditional choice and gives the drink its coffee flavor. Tia Maria works well too. If you enjoy coffee-flavored cocktails, my Tiramisu Martini is another favorite.
- Cream (or Milk): Heavy cream is traditional, but you can make a White Russian with milk or half-and-half for a lighter version. Use the same amount as you would cream.
- Bailey’s Irish Cream (Optional): Adds extra sweetness and a creamier texture. If you love Bailey’s in coffee drinks, you should also try my Baileys Mocha Frappuccino.
- Ice: Keeps your cocktail chilled and ready to serve.
Tip: Use ingredients you enjoy drinking on their own. A good vodka and coffee liqueur make a difference in this creamy coffee liqueur cocktail.
Substitutions and Variations
- Milk and Dairy-Free Options: Make a White Russian with milk or half-and-half instead of heavy cream. For a dairy-free version, try oat milk, almond milk, soy milk, or coconut milk.
- Black Russian: Skip the cream for a classic Black Russian made with just vodka and coffee liqueur.
- Seasonal Flavors: Change things up with peppermint, gingerbread, or caramel for the holidays. Try my Peppermint White Russian, Gingerbread White Russian, or Salted Caramel White Russian for more ideas.
- Mixing Style: Shake the ingredients with ice for a frothy drink, or pour them over ice and leave the cream unstirred for a layered look.
- Glassware: Serve in an old-fashioned or rocks glass, whichever you have on hand.
How to Make a White Russian
Step 1. Fill a rocks glass with ice and pour in the vodka.
Step 2. Add the coffee liqueur (such as Kahlúa).
Step 3. Slowly pour the heavy cream or milk over the top. For a sweeter twist, add a splash of Bailey’s Irish Cream. Stir gently to combine, or leave it layered.
Step 4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Pro Tip: Prefer a frothy White Russian? Shake the vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream with ice in a cocktail shaker, then strain into a glass filled with fresh ice.
Tips for Success
- Choose a vodka and coffee liqueur you enjoy for the best flavor. If you like Kahlúa, my Kahlua White Leprechaun Cocktail is another creamy drink worth trying.
- Use plenty of ice to keep your White Russian cold. Larger ice cubes melt more slowly, helping prevent a watered-down drink.
- Pour the cream slowly over the back of a spoon if you want that pretty layered look.
- Stir just before drinking if you prefer a smooth, blended cocktail.
- Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture, before the ice starts melting.
White Russian Drink Recipe FAQs
Yes! You can make a White Russian with milk using the same amount as heavy cream. Whole milk or half-and-half works well for a lighter drink, and oat milk is another option if you prefer dairy-free.
The classic White Russian ratio is 2 oz vodka, 1 oz coffee liqueur, and 1 oz cream per glass. You can adjust the cream slightly depending on how strong or creamy you like your cocktail.
More Cocktail Recipes You’ll Love
This easy White Russian recipe is perfect for an after-dinner treat, weekend happy hour, or relaxing night at home!
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White Russian Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 4 oz Vodka
- 2 oz Coffee liqueur such as Kahlua
- 2 oz Heavy cream or milk
- Ice
- Optional: 1-2 oz Bailey's Irish Cream
Instructions
- Divide the ice between two rocks glasses and pour 2 oz vodka into each.
- Add 1 oz coffee liqueur to each glass.
- Slowly pour 1 oz heavy cream or milk into each glass. Add a splash of Bailey's Irish Cream if desired, then stir gently or leave layered.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Use heavy cream for a traditional White Russian, or substitute the same amount of milk or half-and-half for a lighter version.
- For a sweeter drink, add a splash of Bailey’s Irish Cream.
- Prefer a frothy texture? Shake the vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream with ice, then strain over fresh ice.
- Skip the cream to make a classic Black Russian.
Janet Bradley says
By “part” do you mean “SHOT”
Kristin says
One part is an inexact measurement. It can mean, for example, 1 ounce, 1 tablespoon or 1 cup. The key is keeping all “parts” equal.