Rich White Russian Milkshake

This White Russian Milkshake Cocktail perfectly combines the classic cocktail with a decadent dessert experience. The smooth blend of coffee liqueur and vodka pairs beautifully with creamy vanilla ice cream, creating an indulgent treat that works equally well as an after-dinner dessert or a fun party beverage.

I first made these for a holiday party three years ago, and they've become my signature dessert cocktail. Even friends who don't typically enjoy alcohol request these when they visit my home.

Ingredients

• Vanilla ice cream: choose premium brands with real vanilla for the best flavor
• Milk: whole milk provides the richest consistency but any milk works
• Vodka: quality matters use a smooth vodka you enjoy drinking straight
• Coffee liqueur: Kahlúa is traditional but any coffee liqueur works wonderfully
• Whipped cream: fresh homemade whipped cream elevates the experience
• Chocolate syrup: adds visual appeal and complements the coffee notes
• Ice: just enough to create the perfect thickness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Blend the Base:

Combine vanilla ice cream, milk, vodka, and coffee liqueur in your blender. Use a quality blender that can handle ice well. Make sure ingredients are measured precisely for balanced flavor.

Add Ice and Blend:

Incorporate just enough ice to create a thick milkshake consistency without diluting the flavors too much. Blend until completely smooth with no ice chunks remaining, usually 30-45 seconds depending on your blender power.

Prepare the Glass:

Drizzle chocolate syrup in a spiral pattern around the inside of your serving glass. For best visual effect, refrigerate the glass for 5 minutes after drizzling to set the chocolate slightly.

Pour and Garnish:

Carefully pour the blended mixture into your prepared glass, maintaining the chocolate drizzle pattern. Add a generous swirl of whipped cream on top, creating a dome shape.

Final Touches:

Complete your creation with a light dusting of cocoa powder or chocolate shavings. Insert a straw and serve immediately while the consistency is perfect.

Pin it

The coffee liqueur is what truly makes this drink special. I discovered that warming the bottle slightly in my hands before measuring creates a more pronounced coffee aroma that elevates the entire drink.

Perfect Temperature Balance

The key to this milkshake cocktail is achieving the ideal temperature. Too warm and it lacks structure too cold and the flavors become muted. I recommend using ice cream that has softened at room temperature for about 5 minutes before blending. This creates the optimal texture while ensuring the alcohol flavors integrate properly rather than remaining sharp.

Make-Ahead Options

While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare components in advance for easy assembly. Blend the ice cream, milk and liqueurs ahead of time and store in the freezer for up to 2 hours. When ready to serve, allow the mixture to thaw for 10 minutes, then stir vigorously and pour into prepared glasses. This method is perfect when entertaining large groups.

Flavor Variations

This versatile recipe welcomes creative adaptations. Try chocolate ice cream instead of vanilla for a mocha version, or add a tablespoon of Irish cream for a different flavor profile. During holiday seasons, I incorporate a quarter teaspoon of peppermint extract for a festive twist that guests always appreciate. The recipe easily scales up for larger gatherings.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use non-alcoholic substitutions?

Yes, you can replace vodka and coffee liqueur with non-alcoholic substitutes like coffee-flavored syrup or vanilla extract for a similar flavor.

→ How should I serve this milkshake cocktail?

Serve it in a chilled glass with chocolate syrup drizzled along the sides, topped with whipped cream, and optional garnishes like cocoa powder or chocolate shavings.

→ Can I make this milkshake dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use dairy-free ice cream, plant-based milk, and a dairy-free whipped topping to make it vegan-friendly.

→ What kind of chocolate syrup works best?

Any store-bought or homemade chocolate syrup works great. Opt for a rich and thick syrup for better flavor and presentation.

→ Can I prepare this milkshake in advance?

It's best served fresh, but you can prepare the base ahead of time and store it in the freezer. Blend it again before serving to restore the creamy texture.