Perfect for the holidays or any chilly day, this Hot White Russian is cozy while still packing a bit of a punch and is a great adult alternative to hot cocoa.
As I write this post, the weather outside is frightful. It really is. It’s the outside thermometer reads 5°F and the windchill is -9°F! BRRRR!
About this White Russian
- Fun twist on the classic: This cocktail isn’t identical to a regular White Russian because it’s hot, and I also add extra coffee. If you’re liking the White Russian theme, try this really delightful twist: White Chocolate White Russian with vodka, white chocolate liqueur, coffee liqueur, and Irish cream liqueur. Totally yummy!
- Slightly lightened up: I use whole milk instead of cream — I find that it is plenty creamy for me, but if you’d like to try it with cream, go for it! I wouldn’t recommend skim milk for this particular recipe as it won’t give you the same creaminess and it also has a higher tendency to curdle when heated.
- Dessert drink: This dessert type drink would be so good served with cookies (milk and cookies, right?) Dark chocolate and pecan cookies would be totally yummy and kind of decadent with these Hot White Russian drinks. Or maybe Snickerdoodles… so good!
Ingredient Notes
- Hot coffee – Make sure to brew it nice and strong.
- Kahlúa – This is a common coffee liqueur. You could use a different brand if you’d prefer.
- Whole milk (or heavy cream) – You could also make it with skim for a slightly lightened up version if you’d like.
- Vodka – Add as much vodka as you like, or leave it out entirely. Just remember that Kahlúa also contains alcohol, so this is definitely an adults-only hot chocolate.
- Whipped cream to garnish. Totally optional, but you’re going to want it.
The recipe is written in parts so that you can easily make this for a big group if you’re hosting a holiday party. To give you an idea of what a “part” should be, I add a couple of tips at the end of the recipe regarding how to make this for one, and also how to make 2-3 servings.
Non-Alcoholic Hot Chocolate Recipes
Try this easy hot chocolate recipe, with a lactose-free option, orange hot chocolate or ginger spiced hot chocolate. Everyone’s been talking about hot cocoa bombs. You’ll want to try Pop Rocks Hot Cocoa Bombs.
More Holiday Sips
- Homemade Egg Nog (with or without alcohol)
- Jack Frost Mimosa — the perfect winter cocktail!
- Red Wine Spritzer
- Pomegranate Mojito
- Ginger Cinnamon Apple Cider Mocktail (non-alcoholic)
- Cherry Martini with Elderflower and Lime
Hot White Russian
Ingredients
- 4 oz. (½ cup) freshly brewed coffee (2 parts)
- 2 oz. (¼ cup) Kahlúa (1 part)
- 2 oz. (¼ cup) whole milk (1 part)
- 1 oz. (2 tablespoons) vodka (½ part)
- whipped cream for topping, optional
Instructions
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine all ingredients and heat until warm (I recommend 150 to 155°F). Do not boil.
- Pour into mug(s) and serve immediately, topped with whipped cream, if desired.
Notes
- To increase: The recipe is written for one drink, with 1 part = ¼ cup. To double the recipe, use ½ cup as a part which will make three 6-ounce servings or two 9-ounce servings (1 cup coffee, ½ cup Kahlúa, ½ cup milk, ¼ cup vodka). Multiply parts as needed to serve your group.
- Milk choices: If you’re feeling in the mood for decadence, use cream instead of whole milk. Skim milk is not recommended for this recipe.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Did You Make This?Share a comment and rating below! I love hearing what you think!Disclosure: I have been compensated by Milk Means More for my time to develop this recipe and write this post. All opinions are as always, my own. Find out more about why Milk Means More on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram and Pinterest.
I made a batch for Christmas boat parade and it was a huge hit. Kept us warm and in the “spirit”for the entire ride. Love it!!
Perfect! Sounds like a fun event!
It’s great to learn that the Hot White Russian drink is great for Christmas parties. My wife and I are preparing for the holiday’s and we are wanting to learn more recipes for our Christmas parties. I’ll be sure to let my wife know about the Hot White Russian recipe for our Christmas party.
I hope you love it!
Exceptional, looks so smooth and creamy, great recipe!
Thank you!
Oh yes ! I’m in. Thank you and have a very happy holidays !