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This festive Gingerbread White Russian is the perfect cozy holiday cocktail for seasonal gatherings or a quiet evening by the fireplace. With its warming spices and creamy texture, it’s a delightful twist on a classic drink that’s sure to impress.
I first whipped this up as a quick experiment during a holiday dinner, and it instantly became a crowd favorite.
- Vodka: Adds a smooth, crisp base that balances the sweet flavors. Choose a quality brand for the best results.
- Coffee liqueur: such as Kahlúa Brings rich coffee tones to deepen the flavor profile.
- Gingerbread syrup: homemade or store-bought Infuses the cocktail with holiday spice notes. Opt for a high-quality store-bought option or make your own for an extra homemade touch.
- Heavy cream: Adds the creamy richness that defines this cocktail. Look for fresh, high-fat cream for the best consistency.
- Ground cinnamon: for garnish Enhances the festive aroma and complements the gingerbread.
- Ground nutmeg: for garnish Another layer of spice for warmth and depth.
- Crushed ice: for serving Keeps the drink refreshingly cold and well-chilled.
- Gingerbread cookies: optional for garnish A charming holiday touch that doubles as a snack.
How To Make Gingerbread White Russian
- Step One:
- Prepare the glass. Select a short rocks glass and fill it with crushed ice. Allow it to chill while you prepare the cocktail base.
- Step Two:
- Combine ingredients in a shaker. Add vodka, coffee liqueur, and gingerbread syrup to a cocktail shaker. Fill with ice and close the lid securely.
- Step Three:
- Shake the mixture. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds to ensure even blending and chilling.
- Step Four:
- Strain the cocktail. Remove the crushed ice from your chilled glass, then pour the mixture from the shaker into the glass over fresh crushed ice.
- Step Five:
- Whip the cream. In a mixing bowl, gently whisk heavy cream just until it thickens slightly while ensuring it remains pourable.
- Step Six:
- Create the cream layer. Slowly pour the whipped cream over the back of a spoon onto the surface of the cocktail for a beautiful layered effect.
- Step Seven:
- Add garnishes. Lightly sprinkle ground cinnamon and nutmeg over the cream layer for a festive aromatic touch. For an extra-special presentation, place a gingerbread cookie on the glass rim if desired.
The gingerbread syrup is my favorite ingredient here as it completely transforms this classic cocktail into something festive and exciting. The aroma alone takes me back to decorating cookies during the holidays with my family.
Storage Tips
Though best made fresh to enjoy the layered effect, you can pre-mix the vodka, coffee liqueur, and gingerbread syrup up to a day in advance. Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator and add the cream and garnishes when serving.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have gingerbread syrup, try substituting equal parts simple syrup and ground ginger for a DIY quick fix. For a dairy-free option, replace heavy cream with coconut cream, which also adds a subtle tropical note.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this cocktail with gingerbread cookies or holiday desserts like pecan pie or shortbread. It also works wonderfully as a signature beverage at winter parties served alongside a charcuterie board.
Enjoy creating this cozy cocktail
Enjoy creating this cozy cocktail and sharing it with loved ones. It brings a touch of warmth and indulgence perfect for chilly winter nights!
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use store-bought gingerbread syrup?
Yes, store-bought gingerbread syrup works perfectly, but you can also make your own for a more personalized flavor.
- → How do I achieve the layered look?
To create the layered effect, pour lightly whipped cream slowly over the back of a spoon onto the top of the drink.
- → What type of coffee liqueur is best?
Kahlúa is a popular choice for its rich coffee flavor, but any coffee liqueur should work well in this cocktail.
- → Can I make this cocktail ahead of time?
For the best flavor and presentation, prepare and serve the cocktail fresh. However, you can pre-mix the liquid ingredients and store them chilled until ready to serve.
- → What other garnishes can I use?
Aside from gingerbread cookies, you can use crushed gingerbread crumbs, orange zest, or even a cinnamon stick for garnish.