Cherry Rose Mudslide

You will need

• 1.5 oz Kahlua
• 1.5 oz Tequila Rose
• 2 oz half and half cream
• 2 maraschino cherries for garnish

Kahlua brings a warm coffee note. Tequila Rose adds strawberry cream, making the drink feel playful. Half-and-half creates the smooth texture that dessert cocktails are known for. The cherries add a small pop of color.

Suggested Liquor Brands and Substitutions

Choosing the right bottles helps the Cherry Rose Mudslide stay balanced. You do not need expensive brands, but consistent flavors make a difference.

• Kahlua, the classic coffee liqueur, with a steady flavor
• Kamora, a budget alternative that still blends smoothly
• Tequila Rose, the standard for strawberry cream liqueurs
• Mozart Strawberry Cream Liqueur, a solid substitute
• Heavy cream, if you want a thicker texture
• Almond milk creamer for a lighter option

If you want the drink less sweet, reduce the Tequila Rose and add extra cream.

Equipment and Glassware

This creamy cocktail needs only basic tools.

Helpful items

• Rocks Glass
• Bar Spoon
• Jigger or a
• Measuring spoon

A rocks glass works well because it keeps the drink cold and highlights the creamy layers.

How to Make It

This winter cocktail is one of the easiest dessert drinks to prepare. You mix it right in the glass.

1. Fill a rocks glass with ice.
2. Pour in Kahlua, Tequila Rose, and half-and-half.
3. Stir gently until the drink looks smooth.
4. Add two maraschino cherries on top.

If you want a stronger flavor, add a small splash of Kahlua. For a sweeter drink, increase the Tequila Rose.

Pro Tips

Small steps can help your Cherry Rose Mudslide taste smoother and look more polished.

• Use cold cream for a cleaner blend
• Stir lightly so the cream stays silky
• Add crushed ice for a softer texture
• Choose bright red cherries for a better look
• Chill your glass if you want a colder cocktail
• Adjust with more cream if you want a thicker sip
• Add a chocolate drizzle inside the glass for a fun twist

Once you know the base flavor you like, it becomes easy to make small tweaks.

Variations

This drink adapts easily to different tastes.

• Chocolate Mudslide, add a small splash of chocolate syrup
• Spiked Cherry Mudslide, add cherry liqueur
• White Mudslide, skip Tequila Rose, and use vanilla cream liqueur
• Frozen Mudslide, blend with ice for a thicker drink
• Zero proof version, use non alcoholic coffee syrup and strawberry milk

These variations keep the drink sweet while giving you a fresh approach.

When to Serve and Pairings

A Cherry Rose Mudslide works well as a dessert cocktail, a winter treat, or a relaxing sip during holiday evenings. It pairs well with sweet and creamy flavors.

Good pairing ideas

• Chocolate truffles
• Cheesecake
• Vanilla cupcakes
• Shortbread cookies
• Fruit tarts

If you enjoy creamy holiday drinks, you will find plenty of similar winter cocktail ideas across the site.

Storage and Serving Notes

This drink is best served fresh. When cream and ice sit together too long, the texture can change. If you want to prep ahead, keep the Kahlua and Tequila Rose chilled. Add the cream only when serving.

For gatherings, line up your glasses with ice first, then pour the ingredients for quick serving.

FAQs

Can I make this drink stronger?
Yes. Add extra Kahlua or a small splash of vodka.

Can I use milk instead of half-and-half?
You can, but the drink will be thinner.

Do I need Tequila Rose?
It is the main flavor, but any strawberry cream liqueur works.

Can I blend it?
Yes. Blending creates a smooth, frozen version.

Is it very sweet?
It is sweet, but the coffee from the Kahlua adds balance.

More Cocktails to Try

If you like creamy or dessert-style cocktails, here are a few more to enjoy.