What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade White Russian recipe is perfect for cozy nights in or treating yourself after a long day. It’s simple to make, pours together quickly, and tastes just as good as your favorite café version—without the fuss.
- Easy Ingredients: You only need three things—vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream—so it’s a breeze to whip up.
- Customizable: Adjust the flavors to your liking, whether you prefer it creamy, strong, or a little sweet.
- Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a classic drink that’s sure to impress your guests or make you feel like a pro bartender at home.
Recipe

The White Russian is a classic cocktail known for its creamy and smooth texture, combining vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream. It’s a simple yet indulgent drink perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces vodka
- 1 ounce coffee liqueur (such as Kahlúa)
- 1 ounce heavy cream or milk
Instructions:
- Fill a rocks glass with ice cubes.
- Pour the vodka and coffee liqueur over the ice.
- Gently float the heavy cream or milk on top by pouring it slowly over the back of a spoon.
- Stir lightly to combine or enjoy it layered.
Notes:
For a dairy-free version, substitute the cream with a non-dairy alternative like almond milk or coconut cream. Adjust the creaminess to your preference by adding more or less cream.
Equipment:
- Rocks glass
- Measuring jigger
- Spoon (for layering)
Time:
Prep time: 2 minutes
Cooking time: 0 minutes
Cuisine:
Cocktail
Serving:
Serves 1
Nutrition
Nutritional information for a White Russian can vary based on specific ingredients and quantities used. Here is the approximate nutrition per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 245 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Protein | 0.6 g |
| Fat | 4.5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.8 g |
| Sugar | 10 g |
| Cholesterol | 15 mg |
| Sodium | 10 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my White Russian with savory snacks like cheese and crackers or spiced nuts—they balance the drink’s sweetness perfectly. If I’m in the mood for dessert, I’ll go for something rich, like chocolate truffles or a slice of cheesecake. Both options make the experience feel extra special!
Savory Snack Pairings
Something about pairing a White Russian with the right snacks makes the experience feel complete. I love balancing its creamy, coffee-kissed flavor with something salty or savory. Garlic Parmesan pretzels are a go-to—they’re crispy, bold, and complement the drink perfectly. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll grab some prosciutto-wrapped melon slices, which add a sweet-savory contrast. Cheesy stuffed mushrooms or warm spinach dip with crusty bread are also winners, especially when I’m cozying up with friends. For a lighter option, I’ll serve cucumber slices topped with herbed cream cheese. Trust me, these pairings elevate every sip of that velvety White Russian.
Sweet Dessert Options
While a White Russian is rich and indulgent on its own, pairing it with the right dessert takes it to a whole new level of deliciousness. I love serving it with creamy tiramisu, as the coffee flavors complement the drink perfectly. Chocolate lava cake is another favorite—its gooey center pairs wonderfully with the cocktail’s smooth texture. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll whip up some vanilla bean panna cotta topped with fresh berries for an invigorating contrast. And don’t forget cheesecake—its richness matches the White Russian’s decadence. These desserts make every sip feel like a celebration!








