Perfect White Russian

Learn how to make a perfect white Russian cocktail with vodka, Kahlua, and cream. This simple cocktail is incredibly delicious, plus I’m sharing a few easy ways to make it your own.

My perfect white Russian ratio is 2 parts vodka, 1 part Kahlua (or other coffee liqueur), and 1 part cream, but you can adjust to your tastes (see variations below)!

For more simple cocktail recipes, try our kir royale, my favorite bourbon Manhattan, or this spiked cider.

Key Ingredients

• Vodka: I prefer vodka for a classic White Russian, but you can also try gin, bourbon, or dark rum for a different twist.
• Coffee Liqueur: I usually use Kahlua, but any coffee-flavored liqueur works (Tia Maria or Trader Vic’s Kona are good options). If you want to switch it up, crème de cacao makes a chocolatey cocktail, or amaretto gives it a nutty, almond flavor. If you have some coffee liqueur leftover, try my tiramisu recipe!
• Cream: Heavy cream is my go-to for a rich, luxurious White Russian, but if it’s too heavy for you, half and half or even whole milk can be substituted. It might not layer as nicely, but it’ll still taste great.

How to Make a White Russian

To make a white Russian, fill a small glass with ice. Add vodka and the Kahlua, then slowly pour cream on top. To get the cream to sit perfectly on top of the vodka and Kahlua, drizzle it slowly over the back of a spoon. Then, when you are ready to drink, swirl the cream into the drink.

There are also a few fun variations you can try:

• Vegan White Russian: Swap the cream for coconut milk or your favorite nut milk (almond, oat milk, or cashew milk works well).
• Bailey’s White Russian: This one’s simple: just swap the cream for Bailey’s Irish Cream. It’s like dessert in a glass!
• Pumpkin Spice White Russian: Add 1/2 teaspoon of homemade pumpkin spice or stir in a little pumpkin butter.
• White Russian with Whipped Cream: Swap the heavy cream for a big spoonful of homemade whipped cream.