The Butterscotch White Russian is a luscious and indulgent cocktail that elevates the classic White Russian with the rich, buttery flavor of butterscotch. Perfect for those who love creamy, dessert-like drinks, this cocktail strikes a perfect balance between the boldness of coffee liqueur, the smoothness of cream, and the irresistible sweetness of butterscotch. It’s a drink that works beautifully for cozy evenings, dinner parties, or as an after-dinner treat. This recipe will not only guide you through making the ultimate Butterscotch White Russian but also offer tips, variations, and serving ideas to make this drink your next go-to cocktail. Let’s dive in and learn how to craft this crowd-pleasing beverage!
Ingredients
For the Butterscotch Sauce: While you can use store-bought butterscotch sauce for convenience, making your own enhances the flavor and gives the cocktail a personal touch. Here’s what you need:
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
For the Cocktail: The base ingredients of the Butterscotch White Russian are simple but come together to create a rich and flavorful drink.
- 1.5 ounces premium vodka
- 1 ounce coffee liqueur (Kahlúa or similar)
- 1 ounce butterscotch schnapps
- 2 ounces heavy cream or milk (for a lighter option)
- 1 ounce butterscotch sauce, homemade or store-bought
- Ice cubes
For Garnishing: The garnishes add a visual flair and enhance the overall drinking experience.
- Crushed butterscotch candies or toffee bits for the rim
- Whipped cream for a decadent touch
- A drizzle of butterscotch sauce
- Optional: Chocolate shavings or a sprinkle of cinnamon for additional flavor
Preparation
Step 1: Make the Butterscotch Sauce Begin by preparing the butterscotch sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once fully melted, add the brown sugar and stir continuously until the sugar dissolves into the butter. Gradually pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2–3 minutes, thickening slightly. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor. Let the sauce cool to room temperature before using it in your cocktail. This sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Step 2: Prepare the Glass Start by rimming the cocktail glass with butterscotch sauce. Dip the rim of the glass into a small dish of butterscotch sauce, then press it into a plate of crushed butterscotch candies or toffee bits. This adds both a decorative touch and a delightful crunch to the drink. Fill the glass with ice cubes to chill it and get it ready for the cocktail mixture.
Step 3: Mix the Cocktail Base In a shaker or mixing glass, combine the vodka, coffee liqueur, butterscotch schnapps, and butterscotch sauce. Stir or shake gently to blend the ingredients thoroughly. The combination of coffee liqueur and butterscotch schnapps creates a deep, sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the cream.
Step 4: Add the Cream Slowly pour the heavy cream or milk over the back of a spoon into the glass. This technique helps create a layered effect, with the cream floating atop the butterscotch and coffee mixture. If desired, gently stir the drink to combine the layers, or leave them separate for an elegant presentation.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve Top the cocktail with a generous dollop of whipped cream for a touch of indulgence. Drizzle butterscotch sauce over the whipped cream, allowing it to cascade down the sides of the glass. Add a sprinkle of crushed butterscotch candies, chocolate shavings, or cinnamon for added flavor and presentation. Serve immediately with a dessert spoon for the whipped cream topping, and enjoy!
Variations
Non-Dairy Option: Replace the heavy cream with almond milk, oat milk, or coconut cream for a dairy-free version of the cocktail. The slight nuttiness of these alternatives complements the butterscotch flavor beautifully.
Spiked Butterscotch Latte: Add a shot of freshly brewed espresso to the cocktail for a bold, coffee-forward twist that balances the sweetness of the butterscotch.
Frozen Butterscotch White Russian: Blend all the ingredients with ice for a creamy, milkshake-like cocktail that’s perfect for warm weather.
Salted Butterscotch White Russian: Add a pinch of sea salt to the butterscotch sauce or sprinkle a few salt flakes over the whipped cream for a sophisticated, salted caramel-inspired variation.
Chocolate-Butterscotch Fusion: Drizzle chocolate syrup along with butterscotch sauce for a decadent combination of flavors.
Cooking Notes
Homemade butterscotch sauce can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For the best results, use high-quality vodka and coffee liqueur, as their flavors are central to the cocktail. Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of butterscotch sauce and schnapps to suit your preferences. Pre-chilling the glass and ingredients ensures the cocktail stays cold and refreshing.
Serving Suggestions
Pair the Butterscotch White Russian with desserts like brownies, caramel cheesecake, or butterscotch pudding for a cohesive flavor profile. For a more casual setting, serve it alongside butter cookies or biscotti. This cocktail is also an excellent standalone treat, ideal for sipping while enjoying a movie or catching up with friends.
Tips
To achieve the perfect consistency for the butterscotch sauce, ensure the cream is at room temperature before adding it to the melted sugar and butter. Experiment with different garnishes, such as crushed pretzels or caramel popcorn, to add texture and complement the drink’s flavors. For an extra creamy texture, substitute half-and-half or evaporated milk for heavy cream.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (for butterscotch sauce)
Total Time: 20 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 350
Protein: 2g
Sodium: 150mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 18g
FAQs
Q: Can I prepare this cocktail in advance? A: While the Butterscotch White Russian is best served fresh, you can pre-mix the vodka, coffee liqueur, butterscotch schnapps, and sauce. Store the mixture in the refrigerator and add cream and ice just before serving.
Q: What type of vodka works best? A: Use a high-quality, smooth vodka for the best flavor. Flavored vodkas, such as vanilla or caramel, can enhance the drink’s sweetness.
Q: Can I make this cocktail without alcohol? A: Yes, for a non-alcoholic version, replace the vodka with vanilla extract and the coffee liqueur with cold brew coffee or espresso. Use butterscotch syrup instead of schnapps.
Q: How can I adjust the sweetness? A: To reduce sweetness, use unsweetened cream or milk and reduce the amount of butterscotch sauce. For a sweeter drink, add more sauce or garnish with extra candy.
Q: Can I use store-bought butterscotch sauce? A: Absolutely! While homemade sauce adds a personal touch, store-bought options work perfectly for convenience.
Conclusion
The Butterscotch White Russian is a delightful blend of creamy, buttery, and sweet flavors that takes the classic cocktail to new heights. Its rich and indulgent profile makes it a versatile drink, perfect for special occasions, casual get-togethers, or a relaxing evening at home. With its simple yet elegant preparation, this cocktail is as impressive as it is delicious. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the many variations, the Butterscotch White Russian is sure to become a favorite in your cocktail repertoire. Take a sip of this sweet indulgence and let the flavors transport you to a world of creamy, buttery bliss.
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Butterscotch White Russian
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Butterscotch Sauce: While you can use store-bought butterscotch sauce for convenience, making your own enhances the flavor and gives the cocktail a personal touch. Here’s what you need:
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
For the Cocktail: The base ingredients of the Butterscotch White Russian are simple but come together to create a rich and flavorful drink.
- 1.5 ounces premium vodka
- 1 ounce coffee liqueur (Kahlúa or similar)
- 1 ounce butterscotch schnapps
- 2 ounces heavy cream or milk (for a lighter option)
- 1 ounce butterscotch sauce, homemade or store-bought
- Ice cubes
For Garnishing: The garnishes add a visual flair and enhance the overall drinking experience.
- Crushed butterscotch candies or toffee bits for the rim
- Whipped cream for a decadent touch
- A drizzle of butterscotch sauce
- Optional: Chocolate shavings or a sprinkle of cinnamon for additional flavor
Instructions
Preparation
Step 1: Make the Butterscotch Sauce Begin by preparing the butterscotch sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once fully melted, add the brown sugar and stir continuously until the sugar dissolves into the butter. Gradually pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2–3 minutes, thickening slightly. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor. Let the sauce cool to room temperature before using it in your cocktail. This sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Step 2: Prepare the Glass Start by rimming the cocktail glass with butterscotch sauce. Dip the rim of the glass into a small dish of butterscotch sauce, then press it into a plate of crushed butterscotch candies or toffee bits. This adds both a decorative touch and a delightful crunch to the drink. Fill the glass with ice cubes to chill it and get it ready for the cocktail mixture.
Step 3: Mix the Cocktail Base In a shaker or mixing glass, combine the vodka, coffee liqueur, butterscotch schnapps, and butterscotch sauce. Stir or shake gently to blend the ingredients thoroughly. The combination of coffee liqueur and butterscotch schnapps creates a deep, sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the cream.
Step 4: Add the Cream Slowly pour the heavy cream or milk over the back of a spoon into the glass. This technique helps create a layered effect, with the cream floating atop the butterscotch and coffee mixture. If desired, gently stir the drink to combine the layers, or leave them separate for an elegant presentation.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve Top the cocktail with a generous dollop of whipped cream for a touch of indulgence. Drizzle butterscotch sauce over the whipped cream, allowing it to cascade down the sides of the glass. Add a sprinkle of crushed butterscotch candies, chocolate shavings, or cinnamon for added flavor and presentation. Serve immediately with a dessert spoon for the whipped cream topping, and enjoy!
Notes
Homemade butterscotch sauce can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For the best results, use high-quality vodka and coffee liqueur, as their flavors are central to the cocktail. Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of butterscotch sauce and schnapps to suit your preferences. Pre-chilling the glass and ingredients ensures the cocktail stays cold and refreshing.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 350
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 2g