Salted Caramel White Russian

Creamy cocktails always make a celebration feel special and this Salted Caramel White Russian puts a sweet and decadent spin on the classic. Perfect for cold nights or when you want dessert in a glass this recipe balances richness with a touch of salty flair. It became my go to after a friend dropped by unannounced and I realized I could make it with what I had on hand.

Everyone who tastes this wants the recipe for their next gathering. I tinkered with the ratios one weekend and this version stopped my friends mid sentence with delighted surprise.

Ingredients

• Vodka: gives the drink its crisp base always use a vodka you enjoy sipping for best results
• Coffee liqueur: brings deep roasty notes try to use one with a good coffee flavor like Kahlúa or Tia Maria
• Salted caramel liqueur or caramel syrup: adds creamy sweetness with a hint of sea salt choose a high quality syrup or a liqueur you would drink by itself
• Heavy cream or half and half: brings out the smooth luxurious texture fresh is best but shelf stable works in a pinch
• Ice cubes: chill the drink and keep it refreshing clear ice looks pretty in the glass
• Caramel drizzle and a sprinkle of sea salt: make the garnish pop select flaky sea salt for the best finish

Instructions

Prepare the Glass:

Fill a rocks glass all the way with ice cubes so the cocktail stays frosty and properly diluted

Mix the Spirits:

Add vodka coffee liqueur and salted caramel liqueur or syrup right on top of the ice making sure each ingredient is measured for a balanced taste

Layer the Cream:

Gently pour heavy cream or half and half over the back of a spoon so it floats on the drink for a pretty layered effect or just pour straight in for a combined creamy mix

Stir to Combine:

Give the drink a gentle stir If you like to admire the swirls do not overmix

Garnish with Caramel and Salt:

Finish with a drizzle of caramel sauce and a light sprinkling of flaky sea salt across the top The salt melts into the cream for little bursts of flavor

Salted caramel always reminds me of afternoons in the kitchen with my sister stirring sugar carefully and licking the spoon Caramel was our first shared kitchen victory

Storage Tips

This drink is best served immediately but you can prep the spirits in advance and keep a sealed bottle in the fridge for up to three days Remember to add cream and garnish just before serving for the freshest taste

Ingredient Substitutions

Try almond milk or coconut cream instead of dairy for a vegan option Sometimes I use homemade cold brew concentrate for deeper coffee flavor Instead of salted caramel liqueur a quality caramel sauce with a pinch of Maldon sea salt works nicely

Serving Suggestions

Serve this after dinner for a dessert cocktail or at holiday brunches with pastries It pairs beautifully with chocolate desserts or a plate of salted almonds

Cultural History

The original White Russian became popular in the sixties and really took off after The Big Lebowski This caramel version is the sweet evolution of an old favorite

Seasonal Adaptations

Use pumpkin spice caramel for a fall twist In spring try a strawberry caramel syrup for a fruity note Garnish with dark chocolate shavings in winter

Success Stories

Every time I share this at a potluck there are requests for seconds I even made a dairy free batch for a friend’s birthday and it disappeared in minutes

Freezer Meal Conversion

Though this cocktail does not freeze well the caramel syrup and coffee liqueur mix can be batch made and frozen in cubes—just add cream and vodka when ready to serve

This Salted Caramel White Russian is the ultimate creamy cocktail for cozy nights or festive gatherings. Make it your signature and enjoy every decadent sip

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use caramel syrup instead of salted caramel liqueur?

Yes, caramel syrup is a great substitute for salted caramel liqueur and delivers a similar sweetness.

→ What type of coffee liqueur works best?

Kahlúa is a popular choice, but any coffee liqueur will give a rich, robust flavor.

→ How should I garnish this drink?

Drizzle caramel over the top and add a pinch of flaky sea salt for an elegant finish.

→ Can I make this dairy-free?

Try using coconut cream or plant-based half-and-half for a creamy, dairy-free alternative.

→ Is it better served shaken or stirred?

Stir gently over ice to preserve the layered look and creamy texture.