This Gingerbread White Russian cocktail is the perfect blend of spice, cream, and alcohol that will quickly become a holiday favorite. This cocktail has a homemade gingerbread syrup that is easy to make and can be used for many different things.
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Why I Love This Recipe
I love this Gingerbread White Russian Cocktail Recipe because of the warming gingerbread spices and nostalgic flavor profile similar to my Gingerbread Martini and my Boozy Eggnog Cocktail. The blend of rich coffee liqueur, velvety cream, and a hint of gingerbread creates a comforting indulgence that's perfect for the holiday season.
How to Make a Gingerbread White Russian Cocktail
Fill a glass with a large ice cube or fresh ice. Add vodka, Kahlua, and gingerbread syrup to a cocktail shaker with ice, shake well, and strain into the glass.
Slowly pour heavy cream over the top to float, using a spoon if you'd like. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and serve.
Expert Tips for This Recipe
- Use high-quality ingredients for the best results. Opt for premium vodka, a high-quality coffee liqueur (such as Kahlúa), and fresh cream or a dairy alternative for the best taste and texture.
- Adjust the amount of cream to your taste. If you prefer a lighter cocktail, use less cream, or choose a dairy-free alternative for a different texture.
- Provide a cinnamon stick or small stir stick or spoon so you or your guest can gently mix the layers if desired.
- A large ice cube or sphere not only looks appealing but also melts more slowly, preserving the integrity of the cocktail's flavors.
How to Make the Gingerbread Syrup
Step 1: Combine water, honey, molasses, ginger, and cinnamon in a saucepan on the stove. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat stirring constantly. Continue to boil and stir for about 3 minutes.
Step 2: Remove the pan from the heat and add the vanilla. Allow the mixture to cool completely and then strain out the solids.
Step 3: Transfer the syrup to a container that seals. Once cool, store in the fridge for 3-4 weeks.
Step 4: Use this syrup for this cocktail when ready!
What To Use Gingerbread Syrup For
I originally made this gingerbread syrup to go into my Gingerbread Martini. But now I make gingerbread syrup every year and keep it in the fridge for other things. Here are a few ideas:
- Put in your coffee or latte for a holiday caffeine hit
- Pour it over pancakes or ice cream
- Use it in your favorite frosting
- Make other Gingerbread cocktails
- Add it to Hot cocoa for the kids...or adults
Recipe FAQs
Absolutely! You can use almond milk, coconut milk, or any other dairy-free alternative instead of regular cream for a vegan version. Just note the drink will not be as creamy when not using heavy cream.
Yes, you can garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, or crushed gingerbread cookies for added flair.
Adjust the vodka and coffee liqueur proportions to make the cocktail stronger or milder according to your preference.
To make a non-alcoholic version, replace the vodka and coffee liqueur with a non-alcoholic vodka, cold brew coffee, or strong black coffee.
Yes, you can use different types of vodka according to your preference. A flavored vodka like vanilla or caramel can also add an interesting twist.
More Holiday Cocktail Recipes to Check Out
If you get a chance to make this Gingerbread White Russian Cocktail, tag me on Instagram or Facebook and show me, or leave a review below! You can also follow me on Pinterest and sign up for my e-mail list to receive more fun and delicious recipes in your inbox.
Gingerbread White Russian
Ingredients
- 2 ounces vodka
- 1 ounce kahlua
- 1 ounce gingerbread syrup (recipe below)
- 2 ounces heavy cream
Instructions
- Prepare a glass with a large ice cube or fresh ice cubes. Pour the vodka, Kahlua, and gingerbread syrup into a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake until nice and cold and strain into the prepared cocktail glass.
- Slowly pour the heavy cream over the top of the ice in the glass to float on the top. You can also use a bartender's spoon to accomplish this if you are feeling fancy.
- Serve with a cinnamon stick for stirring and aroma. Enjoy!
Notes
How to Make Gingerbread Syrup
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- 1⅓ cup water
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- ¼ cup honey
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- 3 tbsp molasses
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- 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced or grated
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- 2 cinnamon sticks
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- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Combine water, honey, molasses, ginger, and cinnamon in a saucepan on the stove. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat stirring constantly. Continue to boil and stir for about 3 minutes. Remove the pan from the heat and add the vanilla.
- Allow the mixture to cool completely and then strain out the solids before transferring it to a glass container that seals.
Nutrition
Any nutrition calculations are only estimates using online calculators. Please verify using your own data.
Karen says
Sorry clicked to fast here is the recipe
3 large eggs
3/4 cup (145 grams) dark brown sugar
1/2 cup (150 grams) molasses or treacle [updated weight]
3 tablespoons (45 grams) mascarpone, sour cream, or applesauce
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Several gratings or two pinches nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
3/4 cup (100 grams) all-purpose flour
Powdered sugar, for rolling
Emily says
Hi Karen, You could use the syrup in place of the vanilla (I don't see it on the list, but it's usually not much), however, I think because all of the gingerbread flavors are already in the recipe it will just get lost. The recipe sounds delicious and I think adding the cocktail to the feast is a great idea. This gingerbread syrup is better for baked goods with a milder flavor like vanilla or chocolate to add extra spice. Whatever you decide I hope it works out great and you have a great holiday!
Karen says
I'm making a Gingerbread Yule Log I found on Debs Smitten Kitchen and was hoping for your thoughts on how to add this syrup into the batter. Would I just add it as I would the extract and omit the vanilla extract. I'm including the cake part of the recipe I'm using as that may be helpful with my question. Thank you and this Cocktail I believe will go fabulous with the Christmas Yule Log as well. What a pure Christmas thrill the two will be. Thank you for looking and for your advise. Merry Christmas.
Sabrina says
So so good!!! I love this take on the White Russian!
Emily says
Thanks, Sabrina. Cheers!