This fun twist on the classic White Russian features warm gingerbread flavors that’ll make you feel all cozy inside. It’s rich, creamy, and just right for the holidays!
Who knew a cocktail could smell this good? The spicy gingerbread aroma makes it hard to wait for a sip! I love enjoying it by the fireplace—pure holiday magic!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vodka: Use your favorite vodka to keep the drink smooth. If you want to switch it up, flavored vodka like vanilla can add a nice twist, especially for the holidays.
Coffee Liqueur: Kahlúa is a classic choice, but you could also use other coffee liqueurs or even a chocolate liqueur if you want something a bit different.
Gingerbread Syrup: Making your own syrup is easy and gives the best flavor. If pressed for time, you can buy pre-made gingerbread syrup or use maple syrup with a pinch of ground ginger and cinnamon.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream gives a rich texture, but you can opt for half-and-half or milk if you prefer a lighter drink. Non-dairy alternatives like coconut cream can also work well.
Rimming Ingredients: Instead of brown sugar, crushed graham crackers or even cinnamon sugar can add a nice touch. Get creative with your rimming options!
How Do I Make the Perfect Gingerbread Syrup?
Making gingerbread syrup at home is simple and truly enhances your drink. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Combine water, brown sugar, and molasses in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add spices: ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves for that cozy gingerbread flavor.
- Stir until the sugar dissolves, then let it simmer for about 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Let the syrup cool before using it in your cocktail. Store any leftovers in the fridge!
This homemade syrup truly brings out the spirit of the season and is sure to impress your guests! Store it in a jar for easy use throughout the holidays.
Gingerbread White Russian
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa)
- 1 oz gingerbread syrup (see below for homemade)
- 2 oz heavy cream or milk
- Ice cubes
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Brown sugar or crushed gingerbread cookies, for rimming the glass
- Mini gingerbread cookies, for garnish (optional)
For the Gingerbread Syrup:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon molasses
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Gingerbread White Russian takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus an extra 5 minutes to make the gingerbread syrup if you’re making it from scratch. The entire process is quick and easy, ensuring you can enjoy this cozy drink in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Making the Gingerbread Syrup:
Start by preparing the gingerbread syrup. In a small saucepan, mix water, brown sugar, molasses, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Bring this mixture to a simmer over medium heat while stirring until the sugar dissolves. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes until it becomes a bit thicker. Remove it from heat and let it cool down.
2. Preparing the Glass:
Now, it’s time to rim the glass! Pour some brown sugar or crushed gingerbread cookies onto a small plate. Take a rocks glass and dip its rim into a bit of water or simple syrup, then into the sugar or crumbs to coat it well. Set this glass aside for now.
3. Assembling the Drink:
Fill the rimmed glass with ice cubes. Pour in the vodka and coffee liqueur, followed by the gingerbread syrup you just made. Now for the fun part! Slowly pour the heavy cream or milk over the back of a spoon or gently into the glass to create a beautiful swirl effect.
4. Finishing Touches:
If you like, give it a gentle stir to mix the layers a bit, or leave it as is for a visual treat. Top it off with a big dollop of whipped cream. If you’re feeling extra festive, garnish with mini gingerbread cookies on the side!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Gingerbread White Russian immediately and enjoy the delightful flavors that are sure to warm your heart this holiday season!
This creamy, spiced drink offers a perfect blend of coffee and gingerbread warmth, ideal for celebrating chilly winter nights.
Can I Use Different Liqueurs in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While coffee liqueur like Kahlúa is traditional, you can experiment with other liqueurs such as chocolate liqueur for a sweeter twist or even a spiced rum for added warmth.
Can I Make This Cocktail Less Sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet drink, try reducing the amount of gingerbread syrup you use or substituting it with unsweetened almond milk. You can always adjust the sweetness according to your taste!
How Do I Store Leftover Gingerbread Syrup?
Store any leftover gingerbread syrup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. It’s great for drizzling over pancakes or adding to coffee as well!
Can I Make This Drink in Advance?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the gingerbread syrup and rim the glasses ahead of time. Just assemble the drink right before serving to keep the layers intact and the cream fresh!