White Russian

White Russian
Joe Fornabaio for The New York Times
Total Time
5 minutes
Rating
4(161)
Notes
Read community notes

Not all that long ago, the White Russian was considered passé and often likened to an alcoholic milkshake. The cocktail, whose culinary precursor is the Alexander, is believed to date to the 1950s or early 1960s. And it gained popularity in the days of disco, which may have added to its dated reputation.

But then, the Coen Brothers released "The Big Lebowski," a movie about an aging slacker who calls himself the Dude, played with slouchy brio by Jeff Bridges. The Dude's chief pursuits involve bowling, avoiding work and drinking White Russians, or as the character calls them, "Caucasians." —The New York Times

Featured in: White Russians Arise, This Time at a Bowling Alley

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Ingredients

Yield:1 drink
  • 1ounce coffee liqueur, such as Kahlúa
  • 1ounce vodka
  • ounces heavy cream
Ingredient Substitution Guide
Nutritional analysis per serving (1 servings)

305 calories; 15 grams fat; 10 grams saturated fat; 1 gram trans fat; 4 grams monounsaturated fat; 1 gram polyunsaturated fat; 14 grams carbohydrates; 0 grams dietary fiber; 12 grams sugars; 1 gram protein; 14 milligrams sodium

Note: The information shown is Edamam’s estimate based on available ingredients and preparation. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.

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Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Scoop a big handful of ice into a shaker, add all ingredients and shake well. Strain and serve in an old-fashioned glass.

Tip
  • Substitute brandy for the vodka and the drink is called a Dirty White Mother. Substituting brandy for the vodka and milk for the cream results in a Separator.

Ratings

4 out of 5
161 user ratings
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Private Notes

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Cooking Notes

Substitute Allen’s Coffee Brandy for Kahlua and you have a White Trash Russian.

I have been making these for years and they always taste wonderful!! I have a pedicure business and will serve one to a tired client at the end of their day,while soaking in a foot bath! They love it!

Ha! Drank these in college in the late 70's. Never again.

I like to use skim milk in place of cream and add in a shot of Bailey's Irish cream.

I used oat milk and it was great!

Be careful whilst standing if you drink more than one of these.

I used oat milk and it was great!

I prefer to float the cream on top. Also is more attractive!

Substitute Allen’s Coffee Brandy for Kahlua and you have a White Trash Russian.

I have been making these for years and they always taste wonderful!! I have a pedicure business and will serve one to a tired client at the end of their day,while soaking in a foot bath! They love it!

I like to use skim milk in place of cream and add in a shot of Bailey's Irish cream.

So a skinny, white, Irish Russian?

Ha! Drank these in college in the late 70's. Never again.

Oh, yes. They catch up with you and mess up your mind.

Me too!!!!!! Same time frame. Loved them! :)

Fully agree. I remember a New Year’s Eve a long time ago. Ugh.

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Credits

Adapted From Dale DeGroff

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