Make Santa’s favorite cocktail! Learn how to mix the perfect White Russian with cream, coffee liqueur, and vodka – plus my (and Santa’s) secret ingredient. Enjoy this rich and creamy drink with a chocolate truffle or an Oreo cookie. Enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This White Russian Drink
Mrs. Claus got her Cranberry Whiskey Cocktail, so it’s time to highlight Santa’s favorite drink! There’s a common Christmastime misconception that Santa likes milk and cookies, but he actually likes a creamy, milky White Russian with cookies.
This cocktail is sophisticated and comforting at the same time. Made with coffee liqueur and vodka, then mixed with thick cream and my special cinnamon syrup, it’s no wonder it’s the big guy’s favorite way to relax after a hard night’s work.
I think this cocktail should be enjoyed as a dessert with a little sweet treat alongside it, but you can pair your White Russian with a variety of garnishes. Check out my ideas below!
What’s In A White Russian?
This is a rich and flavorful drink but it only takes a handful of ingredients to make! Isn’t that the best? I included a homemade cinnamon syrup in this recipe and it really takes it to the next level. Let me know how you like it!
- Vodka
- Kahlua
- Heavy cream
- Cinnamon syrup
Cinnamon Syrup Ingredients
- Water
- Sugar
- Cinnamon sticks
How to Make White Russians
Step 1: Make Cinnamon Syrup
Add water, sugar, and cinnamon sticks to a small pot. Stir it together and bring the mixture to a rolling simmer. Allow it to simmer for 5 minutes and remove it from the heat. Let the mixture cool and then place it into an air-tight container.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add vodka, Kahlua, heavy cream, and cinnamon syrup. Shake everything together until the outside is very cold.
Step 3: Strain and Serve
Strain your cocktail into a glass with ice. Enjoy!
FAQs
What’s the difference between a White Russian and a Black Russian?
It’s all in the cream! A White Russian drink is made with cream and is pretty rich, while a Black Russian is just vodka and coffee liqueur.
Can you make a White Russian without Kahlua?
Yes, you can swap the Kahlua for creme de coffee, amaretto, or any other coffee liqueur.
What do I garnish a White Russian with?
So many options! Here are a few ideas to inspire you.
- Sprinkle some cinnamon and nutmeg on top. You can even get fancy and use a stencil to make it into a shape on top of the cream. If you love cinnamon, you can also add a cinnamon stick.
- Place a gingerbread man inside! It’s a great flavor complement and it’ll look like he’s taking a little soak in the hot tub.
- Grate some chocolate over the top of your drink.
- Stick a candy cane in there to make it a little peppermint White Russian. Alternatively, you can add some mint leaves if you really love that flavor.
- Oreos are a good option because they are chocolatey with a creamy center!
- Or, go with Santa’s favorite! It may not work as a garnish, but pairing a White Russian with a classic chocolate chip cookie would be delicious.
More Holiday Drink Recipes To Try
- Big Batch Cranberry Gin Cocktail
- Holiday Cranberry Mules
- Big Batch Hot Chocolate Bar
- Gingerbread Affogato
- Pomegranate Ornamentini
If you make Santa’s White Russian Drink, be sure to tag me on Pinterest and Instagram!
I seriously love seeing what you guys are making and sharing your creations with the College Housewife community!
Santa’s White Russian Drink
ingredients
- 1.5 oz vodka
- 1 oz kahlua
- 2 oz heavy cream
- 1 oz cinnamon syrup
For the cinnamon syrup:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 cinnamon sticks
instructions
- For the simple syrup – add water, sugar and cinnamon sticks to a small pot. Stir together and bring the mixture to a rolling simmer. Simmer for 5 minutes and remove from heat. Allow the mixture to cool and then place into an air tight container.
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add vodka, kahlua, heavy cream, and cinnamon syrup. Shake until the outside is very cold.
- Strain cocktail into a glass with ice.
Nutrition
join elizabeth on the rocks
Join our newsletter to chat about all things food, cocktails, home decor, and more!