A Salted Caramel White Russian is like dessert in a glass—smooth, creamy, and just the right amount of indulgent. The classic White Russian gets an upgrade with rich caramel and a touch of sea salt, balancing sweetness with a hint of savory depth. It’s the kind of drink that feels fancy but is incredibly easy to make at home.
Salted Caramel White Russian
This has been my go-to cocktail for cozy nights in, and over time, I’ve picked up a few tricks to make it even better. Let’s get mixing!
Ingredients
Serves: 1
Prep Time: 5 minutes
You’ll need:
- 1.5 oz (45ml) vodka
- 1 oz (30ml) coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa)
- 1 oz (30ml) heavy cream
- 0.5 oz (15ml) salted caramel sauce
- A pinch of sea salt
- Ice
Optional: Extra caramel for drizzling
How to Make a Salted Caramel White Russian
- Drizzle some salted caramel sauce inside your glass. A little swirl makes it look extra inviting.
- Fill the glass with ice.
- Pour in the vodka and coffee liqueur.
- Slowly add the heavy cream. Let it float on top for a nice layered look, or give it a gentle stir to mix.
- Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the top. That tiny bit of salt makes all the flavors pop.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Salted Caramel White Russian
- Chill your glass first for an extra refreshing drink.
- Use high-quality vodka and coffee liqueur—you’ll taste the difference.
- Gently stir before drinking if you prefer a smooth, blended flavor.
- Make it less sweet by reducing the caramel or using a sugar-free version.
Variations to Try
Pumpkin Spice Salted Caramel White Russian
- Add 1 tbsp pumpkin spice syrup before the cream.
- Perfect for fall!
Irish Salted Caramel White Russian
- Swap half the vodka for Irish cream liqueur (like Baileys).
- Makes it even creamier.
Mocha Salted Caramel White Russian
- Add a shot of espresso with the coffee liqueur.
- A great pick-me-up!
Dairy-Free Version
- Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
- Adds a slight tropical note.
Non-Alcoholic Version
- Replace vodka and coffee liqueur with strong brewed coffee and caramel syrup.
What to Serve with It
This cocktail pairs beautifully with:
- Chocolate desserts (brownies, truffles, or chocolate mousse)
- Cheese platters (especially creamy or salty cheeses)
- Spicy snacks (the sweetness balances the heat)
I just love how the sweet and salty flavors play together—it’s like a grown-up caramel latte with a kick!
FAQs
Can I use regular caramel instead of salted caramel?
Yes! Just add a tiny pinch of sea salt to balance the sweetness.
What’s the best coffee liqueur for this?
Kahlúa and Tia Maria are great choices, but any coffee liqueur works.
Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best fresh, but you can mix the vodka and coffee liqueur in advance. Just add the caramel and cream when serving.
How can I make it lighter?
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or try almond milk for a dairy-free option.
Can I make my own salted caramel sauce?
Absolutely! Homemade caramel makes this even better—just melt sugar, add butter, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt.
This cocktail is one of my favorites for a reason—it’s rich, creamy, and ridiculously easy to make. Whether you’re winding down after a long day or serving it at a get-together, it’s always a hit. Cheers! 🍹
