Cherry White Russian

The Cherry White Russian is a smooth, creamy cocktail with a hint of rich cherry flavor. It’s a fun twist on the classic, combining vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream with a splash of cherry liqueur or syrup for something a little sweeter and more colorful. The cherry adds a nice touch without making it too fruity, keeping that bold, cozy feel you expect from a White Russian. This drink works well as an after-dinner treat or a weekend nightcap. It’s easy to make, tastes great over ice, and brings just enough of a twist to keep things interesting.

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Tasting Notes

The Cherry White Russian is a decadent, velvety cocktail with a playful burst of cherry flavor. Classic coffee liqueur and vodka form the bold, bittersweet base, while rich heavy cream softens the edges into a luscious sip. The addition of cherry syrup brings a bright fruitiness and a deep crimson swirl, enhancing the visual appeal and flavor complexity. Garnished with a fresh cherry or a drizzle of syrup, this cocktail is like a boozy black forest dessert in a glass—smooth, indulgent, and slightly nostalgic. It’s ideal for after-dinner sipping, festive occasions, or whenever you’re in the mood for luxury.

Equipment and Glassware

To make this creamy cocktail, you’ll need a jigger for precise measuring, a bar spoon for gentle layering or stirring, and a shaker if you prefer a fully blended texture. A rocks glass or lowball glass is ideal to showcase the layered color and richness. For garnish, a cocktail pick is perfect for holding a cherry, while a small spoon or drizzle bottle can help elegantly swirl cherry syrup over the top. For best presentation, chill your glass ahead of time and use large ice cubes to slow dilution.

Ingredients

• 1 oz vodka
• 1 oz coffee liqueur
• 1 oz cherry syrup
• 2 oz heavy cream
• Garnish: fresh cherry or cherry syrup drizzle

Instructions

• In a shaker, combine vodka, coffee liqueur, and cherry syrup with ice. Shake gently to chill.
• Fill a rocks glass with fresh ice.
• Strain the mixture into the glass.
• Slowly pour the heavy cream over the back of a spoon to create a layered effect.
• Add a cherry on top and, if desired, drizzle a little cherry syrup over the cream.

Pro Tips

• Chill your cream ahead of time so it floats better when layered.
• For a smoother blend, shake all ingredients with ice and strain into your glass.
• Use homemade cherry syrup for a more natural flavor, or try Luxardo cherry juice for added depth.
• Want an extra-rich texture? Replace the heavy cream with a mix of half & half and coconut cream.
• Add a pinch of sea salt or grated chocolate for complexity. This drink also pairs beautifully with cherry liqueur for more intensity.

When to Serve

The Cherry White Russian is perfect for winter evenings, holiday parties, Valentine’s Day, or after-dinner sipping. Its rich, dessert-like quality makes it a standout digestif or a decadent treat at the end of a meal. Serve it during festive celebrations, at cocktail bars, or as a signature drink for cozy, romantic nights. Its elegant look and nostalgic flavor also make it great for themed gatherings or date night indulgence.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

• Use a smooth, clean vodka like Tito’s, Grey Goose, or Absolut.
• For coffee liqueur, go with Kahlúa, Mr. Black, or Tia Maria. For cherry syrup, try Torani, Monin, or homemade cherry reduction.
• Garnish with Luxardo cherries for a luxurious touch or fresh cherries in season.
• Use organic heavy cream for the creamiest, freshest finish.

Similar Cocktails

• Chocolate Cherry Martini
• Frozen Cherry Espresso Martini
• Baileys White Russian Cocktail
• Chai White Russian
• Chocolate White Russian