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White Russian Recipe Kahlua

White Russian Recipe Kahlua

This classic White Russian is smooth, creamy, and rich with coffee flavor from Kahlúa, balanced by vodka and heavy cream. It takes just minutes to make and is perfect as an after-dinner cocktail, holiday drink, or weekend treat.
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Prep Time 2 minutes
Total Time 2 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American
Calories: 230
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 ounces vodka
  • 1 ounce Kahlúa coffee liqueur
  • 1 ounce heavy cream Use cold heavy cream for the best texture.
  • 3 large ice cubes

Equipment

  • Rocks glass (or old-fashioned lowball glass)
  • Jigger or measuring shot glass
  • Bar spoon (or teaspoon)

Method
 

  1. Chill a rocks glass in the freezer for about 5 minutes if possible. A cold glass helps keep the drink colder for longer.
  2. Fill the glass about three-quarters full with large ice cubes. Large cubes melt slowly and prevent the drink from becoming watery.
  3. Pour the Kahlúa over the ice. You'll notice a rich coffee and vanilla aroma as it fills the glass.
  4. Add the vodka directly over the Kahlúa. The liquids will naturally blend around the ice.
  5. Slowly pour the heavy cream over the back of a spoon so it floats on top, creating a beautiful white layer.
  6. Stir gently once or twice before drinking until the cocktail turns a smooth light tan color. Stir less for a stronger coffee flavor or more for a creamier finish.

Notes

  • Use heavy cream instead of milk for the smoothest texture and to reduce the chance of curdling.
  • Large ice cubes melt more slowly, keeping the cocktail rich and flavorful.
  • Chill the vodka, Kahlúa, and cream before mixing for the best layered appearance and colder drink.