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White Russian Recipe

The white Russian cocktail is a luxurious yet simple drink that has stood the test of time.

Its rich, creamy texture combined with the robustness of coffee makes it a popular go-to choice.

What is a white Russian?

A white Russian is a cocktail traditionally made with vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream. Served with ice in an old-fashioned glass, it's part of the 'Russian' family of cocktails because of its primary ingredient, vodka. The drink's origins are a bit unclear, but it's generally accepted that it gained popularity in the mid-20th century.


How to make a white Russian

Now that we've learned about the white Russian, let's look at two ways to enjoy this classic drink. Whether you like it cold and refreshing or warm and cosy, we've got a recipe for you. Below, we'll show you how to make both a cold white Russian and a hot white Russian, so you can enjoy this delicious cocktail any time of year.


Ingredients for a white Russian cocktail

- Vodka to provide a clean, crisp base. Choose a good quality vodka for a smoother cocktail
- A NESCAFÉ® Dolce Gusto® Espresso pod for a strong coffee flavour. Typically, you would use a coffee liqueur, but using one of our pods will give you a stronger coffee taste.
- Frothed milk for the creating drink’s signature luxurious, silky texture.


Cold white Russian

1. Fill your glass with ice cubes.
2. Brew your espresso with your NESCAFÉ® Dolce Gusto® coffee machine.
3. Pour 50 ml of vodka and 20 ml of freshly made espresso over the ice.
4. Lightly stir to combine.
5. Carefully pour 30 ml of frothed milk over the back of a spoon so it sits on top of the drink, creating a layered effect.
6. Stir before drinking, if desired.


Hot white Russian

1. Warm your glass by rinsing it with hot water.
2. Brew your espresso, as above.
3. Pour 50 ml of vodka and 20 ml of freshly made espresso into the glass.
4. Top with a generous splash of milk, adjusting the amount to your taste preference.
5. Stir gently to combine.


Tips for the perfect white Russian

Making the best white Russian takes more than just mixing the ingredients. To make this classic cocktail even better, pay attention to the details. Here’s some tips from us on how to make your white Russian even better.


Coffee choice

The coffee flavour strongly influences the taste of your white Russian. The more intense coffee will have a richer, more complex flavour, making your cocktail taste better. For this we recommend the STARBUCKS® Espresso Roast pod.


Milk quality

Frothed milk adds a lovely texture to the white Russian, making it extra creamy and smooth. However, if you're looking for a lighter drink, you can use regular milk instead of cream. You can even use a plant-based milk like almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option. Experiment with different types of milk to find your favourite.


Customisation

Experiment with different coffee strengths to find a flavour you love. You can also add a touch of sweetness with simple syrup or a bit of sugar. For a fun twist, try sprinkling some cocoa powder on top of your drink. Don't be afraid to get creative and experiment with different variations

You've learned how to make both cold and hot white Russians. Now it's time to relax and enjoy your delicious creation! Whether you're sipping a chilled cocktail on a warm evening or warming up with a hot one on a cold night, the white Russian is a real treat. It's simple to make, elegant, and always a crowd-pleaser.
So, there you have it! Italians do enjoy iced coffee, and they have a delightful variety of cold coffee drinks to choose from. Whether you're in the mood for a simple caffè freddo, a frothy shakerato, or a dessert-like affogato, there's an Italian iced coffee treat that's perfect for you. Why not give one a try and add a touch of Italian flair to your coffee routine? Learn more about how to make an how to make an iced coffee here.
cup of italian coffee
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