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
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!
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
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. The syrup will last for 2-3 weeks in the fridge.
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I originally made this gingerbread syrup to go into my Gingerbread Martini.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
-
- 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.
Tatiana says
Made this for Thanksgiving, delicious cocktail!
Emily says
Oh good, thanks for trying it out!
Kayla DiMaggio says
Loving this gingerbread white russian! It was such a fun date night drink!
Emily says
Awesome! Thanks for giving it a try, I'm so happy to hear you guys liked it.😊
Serena says
Can't wait to try this!
Andréa Janssen says
So easy and so delicious. Thank you for sharing!
Emily says
You are so welcome. 😊
Jeri says
This Gingerbread White Russian looks fantastic! Saving the recipe for the holidays! Thanks!
Emily says
Thanks, Jeri! This will be a hit at any holiday gathering.
Adriana says
Sign me up love a good holiday libation!
Emily says
Yesss! Cheers and Happy Holidays!
Swathi says
This Gingerbread white Russian looks delicious.
Emily says
Thank you!!
Amanda Scarlati says
So delicious!
Dannii says
I love anything with gingerbread and this cocktail looks amazing.
Emily says
If you like gingerbread you will love this cocktail...and the syrup!
Carrie Robinson says
What a festive twist on a classic twist! 🙂 Definitely going to make this soon.
Emily says
Thanks, Carrie. I hope you love it!
Caroline says
That gingerbread syrup sounds wonderful and what a great way to use it too!
Emily says
It's a staple in my house during the holidays for sure! I hope you get a chance to make it.
Katherine says
White Russians are awesome, but gingerbread is next level! Yum!
Emily says
Definitely next level...LOL! Cheers!
veenaazmanov says
Cant wait to give this a try. Sounds unique and very innovative. Thanks.
Emily says
I hope you love it!