Gingerbread White Russian Cocktail Recipe for Holiday Cheers

When the holiday season arrives, cozy flavors take center stage — and this Gingerbread White Russian Cocktail is the ultimate festive indulgence. Rich, creamy, and warmly spiced, it transforms the classic White Russian into a Christmas-ready drink that feels equal parts comforting and celebratory.

This cocktail blends smooth vodka and coffee liqueur with cream and gingerbread spices, creating a drink that tastes like dessert in a glass. Notes of ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and molasses give it that unmistakable gingerbread warmth, while the coffee liqueur grounds everything with deep, rich flavor. It’s luxurious without being overly sweet and perfect for sipping by the fire or serving at holiday gatherings.

One of the best things about this gingerbread White Russian is how easy it is to make. There’s no shaking required, no complicated syrups unless you want to make them, and no special bartending skills needed. It comes together in minutes, making it ideal for entertaining or spontaneous holiday cheers.

Whether you’re hosting a Christmas party, enjoying a quiet winter evening, or looking for a festive cocktail to impress guests, this drink delivers cozy holiday vibes in every sip.


Why You’ll Love This Gingerbread White Russian

  • Creamy, cozy, and dessert-like
  • Classic cocktail with a festive twist
  • Simple ingredients and quick preparation
  • Perfect for Christmas and winter gatherings
  • Easy to customize for sweetness and spice

Ingredients

  • 2 oz vodka
  • 1 oz coffee liqueur (such as Kahlúa)
  • 1 oz heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1 tablespoon gingerbread syrup or molasses
  • ⅛ teaspoon ground ginger
  • Pinch of cinnamon
  • Pinch of nutmeg

Optional Garnishes

  • Whipped cream
  • Cinnamon or nutmeg dusting
  • Mini gingerbread cookies
  • Cinnamon stick

Instructions

  1. Fill a rocks glass with ice.
  2. Pour vodka and coffee liqueur over the ice.
  3. Add gingerbread syrup or molasses.
  4. Gently pour in heavy cream.
  5. Sprinkle ground ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg on top.
  6. Stir gently until combined.
  7. Garnish with whipped cream, spices, or a gingerbread cookie if desired.
  8. Serve immediately.

Tips for the Best Gingerbread Flavor

  • Use gingerbread syrup for smoother sweetness
  • Molasses gives a deeper, more authentic gingerbread taste
  • Adjust spices to taste — a little goes a long way
  • Chill your glass for an extra-cold, creamy sip

Delicious Variations

Dairy-Free Version:
Use oat milk or coconut cream instead of heavy cream.

Extra Spiced:
Add a dash of allspice or cloves.

Peppermint Gingerbread:
Add a splash of peppermint vodka for a festive twist.

Mocktail Version:
Use cold brew coffee, cream, and gingerbread syrup without alcohol.


When to Serve a Gingerbread White Russian

This cocktail is perfect for:

  • Christmas parties
  • Holiday dinners
  • New Year’s Eve
  • Cozy winter nights
  • Dessert cocktails

It pairs beautifully with cookies, gingerbread desserts, or chocolate treats.


Make-Ahead & Party Tips

You can pre-mix vodka, coffee liqueur, and gingerbread syrup in a pitcher. Store chilled and pour over ice with cream added fresh to each glass.

Gingerbread White Russian Cocktail

A festive holiday twist on the classic White Russian with warm gingerbread spices and creamy richness.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Course: Cocktail, Drink
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 310

Ingredients
  

Cocktail
  • 2 oz vodka
  • 1 oz coffee liqueur
  • 1 oz heavy cream
  • 1 tbsp gingerbread syrup or molasses
  • 0.125 tsp ground ginger
  • 1 pinch cinnamon
  • 1 pinch nutmeg

Equipment

  • Rocks glass
  • Bar spoon

Method
 

  1. Fill glass with ice.
  2. Add vodka, coffee liqueur, and gingerbread syrup.
  3. Pour in cream and gently stir.
  4. Garnish and serve.

Notes

Adjust spice level to taste.