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Gingerbread White Russian Cocktail

Gingerbread White Russian - featured image

A festive twist on the classic White Russian, this cocktail blends creamy vodka, coffee liqueur, and homemade gingerbread syrup for a cozy, spicy-sweet holiday drink. Perfect for parties or quiet nights in, it’s easy to make and endlessly adaptable for dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 oz vodka
  • 1 oz Kahlúa or coffee liqueur
  • 1 oz heavy cream (or half-and-half, coconut cream, oat milk, or almond milk for dairy-free/vegan)
  • 1 oz gingerbread syrup (homemade or store-bought)
  • Ice cubes
  • Whipped cream (optional, for garnish)
  • Ground cinnamon or nutmeg (for garnish)
  • Mini gingerbread cookies (for garnish)
  • For Gingerbread Syrup (makes about 1 cup):
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 2 tbsp molasses
  • 2 tsp ground ginger
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground cloves
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Make the gingerbread syrup: Combine brown sugar, water, molasses, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and a pinch of salt in a small saucepan. Heat gently over medium, stirring often, until the mixture simmers and sugar dissolves (about 3-4 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool for 15 minutes and strain if desired.
  2. Fill a rocks glass with 3-4 ice cubes. For a festive rim, dip the glass edge in molasses and then in cinnamon sugar.
  3. Pour vodka, Kahlúa, and gingerbread syrup over the ice. Stir gently for 10-15 seconds to combine.
  4. Slowly pour heavy cream over the drink (for a layered look, pour over the back of a spoon).
  5. Top with whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, and a mini gingerbread cookie.
  6. Serve immediately while cold and fresh.

Notes

Chill glasses before serving for extra frosty presentation. Use fresh spices for best flavor. Adjust syrup and cream to taste for sweetness and strength. Make syrup ahead for quick assembly. For vegan or dairy-free, use coconut cream or oat milk. For gluten-free, check liqueur and syrup labels. Batch preparation: Mix vodka, Kahlúa, and syrup in a pitcher for parties, let guests add cream and garnishes.

Nutrition

Keywords: gingerbread white russian, holiday cocktail, Christmas drink, festive cocktail, gingerbread syrup, creamy cocktail, easy party drink, winter cocktail, vodka, Kahlúa, homemade syrup