Cherry White Russian

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The Cherry White Russian is a bold, luxurious twist on a cocktail classic that delivers the perfect balance of creaminess and cherry-infused richness. Whether you’re winding down after dinner or looking for something to serve at a cozy gathering, this drink wraps comfort and indulgence into one short glass. The velvety texture of cream and the bittersweet notes of coffee liqueur get a juicy lift from sweet cherry syrup, making each sip more delightful than the last.

This drink not only looks stunning with its marbled layers of white and deep cherry red, but it also has a flavor profile that’s easy to love and hard to forget. If you’re already a fan of traditional White Russians, the cherry version is an easy upgrade that adds a touch of fruity elegance without losing the boldness that defines the cocktail.

Why You’ll Love This Cherry White Russian

The Cherry White Russian is perfect for cherry lovers and cocktail enthusiasts alike. It’s simple to make, yet tastes and looks like something you’d order at a fancy cocktail bar. The addition of cherry syrup not only adds sweetness but also complements the coffee and cream beautifully. It’s a drink you can serve during the holidays, at Valentine’s dinner, or even just to unwind after a long day.

It requires no special bar tools and can be customized with flavored vodkas or dairy alternatives for a personal touch. From its creamy texture to its elegant hue, this drink has all the makings of a signature favorite.

What Kind of Cherry Syrup Should I Use?

For this cocktail, the best cherry syrup is the kind made from real cherries, like the one found in a jar of Luxardo cherries or even homemade cherry syrup. You want something thick and rich in flavor, not just artificially sweet. Maraschino cherry syrup will work in a pinch, but for the best depth, choose a quality cherry syrup with natural juice.

You can also try simmering frozen cherries with a little sugar and water to create your own if you prefer making things from scratch. It stores well and brings a fresh, vibrant cherry essence to your drink.

Ingredients for the Cherry White Russian

You only need a handful of ingredients to create this delicious drink, but each one plays an important role in building the cocktail’s flavor and texture.

• Vodka
• Coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa)
• Heavy cream or half-and-half
• Cherry syrup
• Ice
• Luxardo or maraschino cherry for garnish

Each ingredient works together to build the creamy, layered complexity that makes this drink such a standout. Vodka gives it strength, coffee liqueur adds boldness, and cherry syrup softens everything with a sweet fruitiness.

How To Make the Cherry White Russian

Step 1: Fill the Glass

Start with a short rocks glass and fill it with ice cubes about 3/4 of the way. The ice chills the drink as you build it.

Step 2: Pour the Vodka and Liqueur

Add 1.5 oz of vodka followed by 1 oz of coffee liqueur over the ice. Give it a gentle swirl with a spoon to combine slightly.

Step 3: Add the Cherry Syrup

Pour 0.5 oz of cherry syrup directly into the glass. Let it settle into the mix to start forming layers.

Step 4: Float the Cream

Slowly pour 1 oz of heavy cream or half-and-half over the back of a spoon to float it over the darker layers beneath. This gives the drink its signature marbled look.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top with a Luxardo cherry or maraschino cherry and serve immediately. Stir before sipping for a creamier, more unified flavor, or drink as-is to enjoy the contrast of layers.

How to Serve and Store the Cherry White Russian

The Cherry White Russian is best served immediately after making to keep the beautiful layered effect and optimal chill. This cocktail is perfect for one or two people but can easily be made in a small batch if you’re entertaining.

It’s not the type of drink you’ll want to prepare far in advance. The cream can separate or curdle over time, so mix fresh for the best flavor and texture. This recipe makes one serving, but scaling up is simple.

What to Serve With Cherry White Russian?

Chocolate Truffles

The dark bitterness of chocolate truffles complements the sweetness of the cherry syrup perfectly.

Cheesecake

A rich New York-style cheesecake amplifies the indulgent vibe of this cocktail.

Almond Biscotti

Crunchy, nutty biscotti are a great partner to coffee-based drinks.

Cherry Almond Cookies

Tie in the cherry flavor with matching cookies for a themed dessert hour.

Salted Pretzel Rods

The salty crunch adds contrast and brings out the sweet cherry notes even more.

Brie and Crackers

Creamy brie echoes the richness of the cream in the cocktail.

Chocolate-Covered Espresso Beans

For a fun little garnish or snack on the side, these deliver punchy coffee flavor and crunch.

Want More Cocktail Ideas?

If this Cherry White Russian sparked your love for creative drinks, you’ll want to explore some of these savory and creamy favorites next:

• Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe to enjoy a hearty dinner before your drink.
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta for a quick and filling pre-cocktail bite.
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce to match the indulgent tone of this cocktail.
• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta for another creamy delight.
• One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta for something easy and satisfying.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest cocktail board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use cream or a dairy-free version? Did you float the cream or stir it in completely?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other create the best sips.

Explore beautifully curated drinks on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next go-to cocktail.

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