Gingerbread White Russian (Print Version)
A creamy cocktail combining vodka, Kahlúa, and homemade gingerbread syrup for a festive holiday drink that tastes like dessert.
# Ingredients:
→ For the Gingerbread Syrup
01 -
1 1/3 cups water
02 -
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
03 -
2 tablespoons molasses
04 -
2-inch piece of fresh ginger, thinly sliced
05 -
2 cinnamon sticks
06 -
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
→ For the Gingerbread White Russian
07 -
Ice
08 -
60 ml vodka
09 -
30 ml Kahlúa or other coffee liqueur
10 -
30 ml gingerbread syrup (or more, to taste)
11 -
30-60 ml heavy cream
→ Optional Garnish
12 -
Cinnamon and sugar mixture for rimming the glass
13 -
Mini gingerbread cookies
14 -
Ground cinnamon or nutmeg for dusting
# Steps:
01 -
In a medium saucepan, combine the water, honey, molasses, sliced ginger, and cinnamon sticks.
02 -
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, stirring until the honey is dissolved.
03 -
Allow it to boil for 3-5 minutes.
04 -
Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
05 -
Let the syrup cool completely, then strain it through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the ginger and cinnamon sticks.
06 -
Store the syrup in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
07 -
Pour a small amount of the gingerbread syrup onto a plate and a mixture of cinnamon and sugar onto another. Dip the rim of the glass first in the syrup, then in the cinnamon sugar.
08 -
Fill your prepared rocks glass with ice.
09 -
Add the vodka, Kahlúa, and gingerbread syrup to the glass. Stir gently to combine.
10 -
Slowly pour the heavy cream over the back of a spoon to float it on top of the drink for a beautiful layered look.
11 -
Garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon and a mini gingerbread cookie, if desired. Stir before drinking.
# Notes:
01 -
Make It Dairy-Free/Vegan: For a creamy vegan version, substitute the heavy cream with full-fat oat milk or canned coconut cream. A high-quality dairy-free coffee creamer also works well.
02 -
Spirit Variations: Try swapping the vodka for spiced rum to enhance the warm spice flavors, or use brandy for a smoother finish.
03 -
Spice It Up: You can add other whole spices like a star anise or a few cloves to the syrup while it simmers for a more complex flavor.
04 -
Non-Alcoholic Version: To make a mocktail, mix 1-2 ounces of gingerbread syrup with 3 ounces of chilled strong coffee or cold brew. Top with cream and enjoy.