The White Cargo is one of those cocktails that feels like a treat and a throwback all at once. Creamy, slightly fruity, and laced with a touch of gin, it’s part dessert, part drink—and all indulgence. I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-dinner cocktails. It’s been a go-to when I want something sweet, cold, and a little nostalgic.
White Cargo
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1
Glassware: Highball or hurricane glass
Ingredients
– 2 scoops (about 1 cup / 130g) vanilla ice cream
– 4 oz (120 ml) white grape juice
– 2 oz (60 ml) gin
Method
- Pour the white grape juice into a blender.
- Add the gin and vanilla ice cream.
- Blend just until smooth and creamy. Don’t overblend—you’re aiming for a thick, milkshake-like texture.
- Pour into a chilled highball or hurricane glass. Serve immediately with a straw or spoon.
Tips & Tricks
– Chill your glass in the freezer while you prep—this keeps the cocktail nice and cold longer.
– Use good-quality ice cream. It really makes a difference here since it’s the star of the show.
– If the drink turns out too thin, use slightly firmer ice cream next time or reduce the juice a bit.
– I’ve made this drink countless times, and here’s a tip: Let the ice cream soften just a little before blending. It helps everything mix evenly without overworking the blender.
Make-Ahead Notes
You can mix the grape juice and gin ahead of time and keep it in the fridge. Just blend with ice cream right before serving for that fresh, creamy texture.
Ingredient Swaps
– Non-dairy version: Use coconut or almond milk-based vanilla ice cream.
– No gin? Try vodka for a more neutral taste, or skip the alcohol for a kid-friendly version.
– No white grape juice? Try pear juice or apple juice for a similar sweetness.
Storage
This one’s best enjoyed right after blending. If you do have leftovers, pop them in the freezer and blend again later with a splash of juice to revive the texture.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail is rich and dessert-like, so it pairs well with light, tart snacks that balance the sweetness.
Try it with:
– A handful of fresh berries—the tartness complements the creamy base.
– A slice of lemon tart or shortbread cookies for a lovely contrast.
– Spicy appetizers like jalapeño poppers or chili-lime nuts. The heat plays well with the cool, creamy drink.
Variations
Tropical White Cargo
– Add 1 oz (30 ml) of coconut cream and a splash of pineapple juice.
– Blend with the original ingredients for a beachy twist.
Berry White Cargo
– Toss in a handful of mixed berries before blending.
– Garnish with a berry skewer or a few frozen berries dropped into the glass.
Winter White Cargo
– Add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg to the blender.
– Top with a cinnamon stick or a light dusting of nutmeg for a cozy vibe.
Virgin White Cargo (Non-Alcoholic)
– Skip the gin and blend vanilla ice cream with white grape juice.
– Add a splash of lemon-lime soda or ginger ale for a little sparkle.
FAQs
Can I make it ahead of time?
Sort of. You can mix the juice and gin in advance, but wait to blend in the ice cream until just before serving so it stays thick and frosty.
What’s the best ice cream to use?
Go for a creamy, good-quality vanilla. French vanilla adds a little extra richness if you like that.
How can I make it lighter?
Use a light or non-dairy ice cream and reduce the juice a bit. You can also add a splash of soda water to lighten the body without losing flavor.
Can kids have it?
Absolutely! Just leave out the gin and maybe add a splash of lemon-lime soda for fizz. It’s like a fancy float.
What’s a common mistake?
Overblending. It can turn the drink runny and watery. Just a quick pulse or two until smooth is perfect.
Final Thoughts
White Cargo is a cocktail that feels like a celebration—smooth, sweet, and just a little unexpected. Whether you serve it as a summer treat or a cozy winter dessert drink, it’s sure to get people talking. Try it once, and you’ll see why it’s stuck around for nearly a century.
