White Russian

Grab your favorite vintage cardigan sweater and relax. Today we’re talking all about how to make a white Russian cocktail that’s guaranteed to get the stamp of approval from The Dude, aka His Dudeness, aka Duder, aka El Duderino.

What is a white Russian?

Thanks, in part, to The Big Lebowski, white Russians are one of the most recognizable vodka cocktails (and not just at the bowling alley). However, this tasty drink dates back long before the Coen brothers’ classic 1998 film.

The first white Russian was made in the mid-20th century and, despite its name, doesn’t have Russian origins. Rather, it gets its name from its main ingredient, vodka. (It was actually invented in Belgium.)

White Russians are sweet but not overly so, meaning they’re excellent to enjoy on their own or paired with a decadent dessert (like this beautiful coffee cheesecake).

White Russian Ingredients

Lauren Habermehl For Taste of Home

White Russians are easy to make and require just three ingredients. Vodka meets an equal amount of Kahlua (or homemade coffee liqueur) finished with a hefty splash of cream, which really “ties this drink together, man” and adds decadence.

Directions

Step 1: Start with ice

Fill a rocks glass three-quarters full with ice.

Editor’s Tip: While these delicious little dessert cocktails are incredibly gulp-able, you don’t want an abundance of ice to water down your drink. Go easy on the ice, or plan ahead and make some frozen coffee ice cubes instead.

Step 2: Add the liquor

Lauren Habermehl For Taste of Home

Pour the vodka and Kahlua over the ice.

Step 3: Finish with cream

Lauren Habermehl For Taste of Home

Top with a splash of cream (whipping or heavy) and gently stir.

White Russian Variations

Putting a twist on easy cocktail recipes is part of the fun of crafting cocktails. While The Dude abides by the classic formula, feel free to put your own spin on this white Russian. Here are a couple of absolutely divine ways to switch up the flavors:

• Mint white Russian: Add a splash of crème de menthe (also used to make Cary Grant’s stinger cocktail) and garnish with a candy cane.
• White Cuban: Substitute the vodka for white rum. If you’re in the holiday mood, a spiced rum will do nicely as well.
• Irish white Russian: Pour in a 1/2 ounce of Irish cream.
• White Russ-Chata: Add a splash of RumChata Cream Liqueur to the finished cocktail.

White Russian Tips

What can you substitute for heavy cream in a white Russian?

You can swap for half-and-half, low-fat milk or even instant coffee creamer (like The Dude does) if you must, but the texture won’t be as velvety. Need a non-dairy white Russian? Use coconut, cashew or oat milk to keep it rich.

How do you make a layered white Russian?

Slowly pour the cream over the back of a spoon if you want to try your hand at layering the drink. Otherwise, just mix the cocktail with a spoon or straw for a more uniform flavor.

What are some good garnishes for white Russians?

Make your white Russian more festive with a quick dash of nutmeg, a sprig of rosemary or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Once you’ve mastered the white Russian, try crafting the similarly delicious, but slightly more advanced, Coffee & Cream Martini.