If you’re in the mood for something creamy, smooth, and just a little indulgent, the White Ukrainian is a classic cocktail that hits all the right notes. With its rich coffee flavor and velvety finish, it’s basically dessert in a glass-with a little kick. I’ve made this drink countless times, and it never fails to impress. Let’s break it down so you can make a perfect one at home.
White Ukrainian
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Glass: Rocks glass or lowball glass
Ingredients
– Vodka – 1.5 oz (45 ml)
– Coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa or Tia Maria) – 0.75 oz (22 ml)
– Heavy cream – 0.75 oz (22 ml)
– Ice – enough to fill your glass
Method
- Fill a rocks glass with ice. If you’ve got time, chill the glass in the freezer first-it helps keep the drink extra cold and smooth.
- In a cocktail shaker or mixing glass, combine the vodka and coffee liqueur. Stir gently for about 10 seconds to mix and chill.
- Strain the mixture into your prepared glass.
- To add the cream, pour it slowly over the back of a spoon held just above the drink. This helps the cream float on top, giving that classic layered look. Don’t worry if it mixes a little-it’ll still taste amazing.
Tips & Tricks
– Slightly whisk the cream before pouring to give the drink a silky, luxurious feel.
– Use good-quality coffee liqueur. It makes a big difference in flavor.
– For a lighter version, you can swap in whole milk or even half-and-half. Just know it won’t be quite as rich.
– Want to make it vegan or dairy-free? Try unsweetened coconut cream, almond milk, or oat milk. Coconut cream gives it a nice tropical note.
– Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or cocoa powder on top for a little flair and extra flavor.
Make-Ahead Notes
You can mix the vodka and coffee liqueur ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a couple of days. Just add the cream right before serving to keep it fresh and layered.
Storage
Once mixed with cream, it’s best to enjoy the White Ukrainian right away. Leftovers don’t store well because the cream can separate.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail is a cozy treat-perfect for winter evenings or after-dinner sipping. I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-cocktail rituals: pairing it with something sweet or salty to balance that creamy richness.
Great Pairings:
– Chocolate desserts: Brownies, chocolate mousse, or even a dark chocolate bar work beautifully. The coffee and chocolate combo is a dream.
– Roasted nuts: A small bowl of almonds or cashews adds a lovely crunchy contrast.
– Cheese plate: Aged cheddar or gouda plays nicely with the drink’s sweetness. Try it with a few grapes or dried figs for a full tasting experience.
Variations You’ll Want to Try
Spiced White Ukrainian
– Add a pinch of ground cinnamon and nutmeg to the mix.
– Garnish with a cinnamon stick for a cozy twist.
White Ukrainian Mocha
– Add a shot of freshly brewed espresso to the shaker.
– Dust with cocoa powder before serving for a café-style finish.
Irish White Ukrainian
– Replace the cream with Irish cream liqueur (like Baileys).
– It adds a little extra sweetness and depth-perfect for special occasions.
Non-Alcoholic Version
– Mix chilled brewed coffee with cream or a milk alternative.
– Add a splash of vanilla extract and serve over ice. It’s just as comforting, minus the buzz.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! Mix the vodka and coffee liqueur and store in the fridge. Add the cream right before serving.
What’s the best coffee liqueur to use?
Kahlúa and Tia Maria are both solid choices. They’re smooth and flavorful without being too sweet.
Is it a strong drink?
It’s pretty mellow. The cream softens the vodka’s edge, making it easy to sip.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
You can. Whole milk works best if you want to keep some creaminess, but it’ll be lighter overall.
Any dairy-free options?
Absolutely. Try almond, oat, soy, or coconut cream. They all bring their own flavor, so pick what you like best.
How do I make it look fancy?
Float the cream carefully and finish with a coffee bean or a dusting of cocoa powder. Simple, elegant touches make it extra special.
–
Whether you’re sipping this on a cozy night in or sharing it with friends after dinner, the White Ukrainian is a drink that always delivers. It’s comforting, a little nostalgic, and endlessly customizable. Once you’ve mastered the classic, you’ll have fun playing with the variations-and maybe even inventing your own.
