Reviewed by WhatDrink Editorial Team, Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic23.8% ABV3 ingredientsexcellent recipe
Difficulty
Easy
Why: 3 ingredients, uses cream
Best for: Caviar, Chocolate, Dessert
Ingredients
BaseModifierDairy / texture
- 2 ozVodkaBase
- 1 ozCoffee LiqueurModifier
- to tasteLight CreamDairy / texture
How to Make It
- Pour vodka and coffee liqueur over ice cubes in an old-fashioned glass.
- Fill with light cream and serve.TopTopping adds length, bubbles, dilution or sweetness near the end.
Best For
Food Pairings
Diet & Lifestyle
Gluten-FreeVegetarian
Make it your way
Adjust this drink
Try alcohol-freeBrowse mocktails and zero-ABV alternatives.Make it lighterTry a longer serve style, more ice, soda, tonic or a lower-ABV alternative.Lower the sugarCompare with drinks that use less estimated sugar per serve.Lower the caloriesCompare with drinks that sit lower on estimated calories per serve.
Swap notes
Base spiritVodka is the most forgiving swap. A neutral vodka keeps the drink clean. Flavoured vodkas add character but change the balance — cut back on other flavourings if you use one.Milk and creamMilk, cream and creamy ingredients change body, texture and sweetness perception. They are not neutral swaps. With citrus, add slowly and watch for curdling or texture changes.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is a White Russian?
- The White Russian is a cocktail made with 3 ingredients, traditionally served in a Old-Fashioned Glass. It has an ABV of approximately 23.8%. A standard serving contains approximately 317 calories.
- What does a White Russian taste like?
- White Russian has a flavour profile featuring Cream, Coffee, Roasted, Sweet. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
- What food goes well with a White Russian?
- White Russian pairs well with Caviar, Chocolate, Coffee Desserts. The pairing is based on complementary flavour profiles from the recipe's ingredients.
- How strong is a White Russian?
- The White Russian has an ABV of approximately 23.8%. That's approximately 1.79 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 317 calories, 10.4g sugar, 13.5g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
- When is a White Russian typically served?
- White Russian is a popular choice for Dessert, After Dinner. It also works well as an aperitif or casual evening drink.
- What drinks are similar to a White Russian?
- If you enjoy White Russian, look for cocktails with a similar spirit base and flavour profile using the filters on the cocktails page. Drinks with matching body and acidity scores on the sensory bar will feel closest in character.
- Can I make a White Russian at home?
- Yes. The White Russian uses 3 ingredients, making it easy to prepare at home. You will need a Old-Fashioned Glass. Use quality spirits and fresh ingredients for the best result.
- What do the sensory profile dimensions mean?
- Sensory profile dimensions describe key flavour characteristics: Body (light to full), Dryness (sweet to bone dry), Acidity (flat to crisp), Fruitiness (subtle to prominent) and Boldness (delicate to bold). Each scale helps you compare cocktails at a glance and find ones with similar character.
- How do I use sensory profiles to find cocktails I like?
- Compare the Body, Acidity and Fruitiness of White Russian with other cocktails. If you enjoy this drink, look for others with a similar profile. Adjust one dimension at a time to discover new favourites while staying in your flavour comfort zone.