The Butterscotch White Russian is a luxurious and indulgent cocktail that takes the classic White Russian to new heights. By incorporating the rich, buttery sweetness of butterscotch schnapps, this drink becomes a decadent treat that’s perfect for cozy evenings, holiday gatherings, or when you simply want to elevate your cocktail game. With its creamy texture, balanced sweetness, and the warmth of vodka, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or a beginner looking for an easy-to-make yet impressive drink, the Butterscotch White Russian offers a delightful experience in every sip.
Ingredients
- 1 oz vodka (preferably a high-quality brand)
- 1 oz butterscotch schnapps
- 1 oz coffee liqueur (such as Kahlúa)
- 2 oz heavy cream (or substitute with half-and-half)
- Ice cubes
- Optional garnish: caramel drizzle, whipped cream, or butterscotch candy
Preparation
Step 1: Chill Your Glass
Begin by placing your serving glass in the freezer for 5–10 minutes. A chilled glass enhances the drinking experience by keeping your cocktail cold for longer and adds an elegant touch to your presentation.
Step 2: Prepare Your Ingredients
Gather all the ingredients and ensure the cream or half-and-half is cold. This step ensures that your drink will have the right creamy consistency and flavor.
Step 3: Fill the Glass with Ice
Remove the chilled glass from the freezer and fill it with ice cubes. For the best presentation, use large, clear ice cubes, which melt slower and prevent dilution.
Step 4: Add the Liquors
Pour 1 oz of vodka, 1 oz of butterscotch schnapps, and 1 oz of coffee liqueur over the ice. The combination of these three ingredients creates a rich, layered flavor profile with a perfect balance of sweetness and warmth.
Step 5: Top with Cream
Gently pour 2 oz of heavy cream over the back of a spoon to create a layered effect. The cream will slowly blend into the liquors, giving the cocktail its signature look and creamy texture.
Step 6: Stir and Serve
For a traditional presentation, serve the drink as is, allowing guests to stir it themselves. Alternatively, you can lightly stir the cocktail to mix the ingredients for a more uniform flavor.
Step 7: Add Garnish (Optional)
Elevate your Butterscotch White Russian by garnishing it with a drizzle of caramel sauce, a dollop of whipped cream, or a piece of butterscotch candy placed on the rim of the glass.
Variation
- Salted Caramel White Russian: Add a pinch of sea salt to the caramel garnish or use salted caramel-flavored vodka for a sweet and savory twist.
- Vegan Version: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream or almond milk for a dairy-free option that’s just as creamy and delicious.
- Spiced Butterscotch White Russian: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream before pouring for a warm, spiced flavor perfect for the holidays.
- Frozen Butterscotch White Russian: Blend all the ingredients with ice for a creamy, frozen cocktail. Serve in a tall glass with a straw for a refreshing twist.
Cooking Note
Use fresh, high-quality ingredients to enhance the flavor of your cocktail. Chilling your glass and using cold cream are small steps that make a big difference in the final result. For those who prefer a stronger drink, increase the vodka to 1.5 oz while maintaining the balance of the other ingredients. If you enjoy experimenting, try different brands of butterscotch schnapps and coffee liqueur to find your perfect combination.
Serving Suggestions
The Butterscotch White Russian pairs beautifully with desserts, especially those with chocolate, caramel, or coffee flavors. Serve it alongside a slice of cheesecake, chocolate mousse, or caramel tart for a decadent treat. It’s also a fantastic cocktail for festive occasions like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year’s Eve, where its creamy texture and rich flavor complement holiday spreads. For an intimate setting, pair it with light snacks like salted nuts or pretzels to balance the sweetness of the drink.
Tips
- For the creamiest texture, use heavy cream instead of half-and-half.
- To create a more striking visual presentation, layer the cream over the liquor using the back of a spoon.
- Chill your ingredients and glass to maintain the perfect serving temperature.
- Experiment with flavored vodkas, such as vanilla or caramel, to add another dimension to the cocktail.
- Serve with a reusable cocktail stirrer or straw for easy mixing and sipping.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 310
Protein: 1g
Sodium: 25mg
FAQs
Can I make a non-alcoholic version of this drink?
Yes, you can create a non-alcoholic Butterscotch White Russian by replacing vodka and coffee liqueur with coffee or cold brew, and butterscotch schnapps with butterscotch syrup.
What type of cream works best?
Heavy cream provides the richest and creamiest texture, but you can use half-and-half for a lighter version. Dairy-free options like coconut cream or almond milk also work well.
Can I serve it warm?
While traditionally served cold, you can create a warm version by heating the cream and combining it with coffee or hot chocolate instead of ice.
How can I adjust the sweetness?
To reduce the sweetness, use less butterscotch schnapps or opt for unsweetened cream. Conversely, for a sweeter drink, add a splash of caramel syrup or simple syrup.
Can I prepare it in advance?
This cocktail is best prepared fresh, as the cream and liquors can separate if left to sit for too long. However, you can pre-mix the liquors and store them in the refrigerator, adding cream and ice just before serving.
Conclusion
The Butterscotch White Russian is a decadent cocktail that offers a rich and creamy twist on the classic recipe. Its buttery, sweet flavor makes it a versatile drink that fits both casual and celebratory occasions. Whether you’re sipping it by the fireplace during the holidays or serving it as a show-stopping dessert cocktail, this recipe guarantees a delightful experience. With easy-to-find ingredients and simple preparation, anyone can master this luxurious drink. Treat yourself and your guests to the ultimate indulgence with the Butterscotch White Russian.
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Butterscotch White Russian
- Total Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 oz vodka (preferably a high-quality brand)
- 1 oz butterscotch schnapps
- 1 oz coffee liqueur (such as Kahlúa)
- 2 oz heavy cream (or substitute with half-and-half)
- Ice cubes
- Optional garnish: caramel drizzle, whipped cream, or butterscotch candy
Instructions
Preparation
Step 1: Chill Your Glass
Begin by placing your serving glass in the freezer for 5–10 minutes. A chilled glass enhances the drinking experience by keeping your cocktail cold for longer and adds an elegant touch to your presentation.
Step 2: Prepare Your Ingredients
Gather all the ingredients and ensure the cream or half-and-half is cold. This step ensures that your drink will have the right creamy consistency and flavor.
Step 3: Fill the Glass with Ice
Remove the chilled glass from the freezer and fill it with ice cubes. For the best presentation, use large, clear ice cubes, which melt slower and prevent dilution.
Step 4: Add the Liquors
Pour 1 oz of vodka, 1 oz of butterscotch schnapps, and 1 oz of coffee liqueur over the ice. The combination of these three ingredients creates a rich, layered flavor profile with a perfect balance of sweetness and warmth.
Step 5: Top with Cream
Gently pour 2 oz of heavy cream over the back of a spoon to create a layered effect. The cream will slowly blend into the liquors, giving the cocktail its signature look and creamy texture.
Step 6: Stir and Serve
For a traditional presentation, serve the drink as is, allowing guests to stir it themselves. Alternatively, you can lightly stir the cocktail to mix the ingredients for a more uniform flavor.
Step 7: Add Garnish (Optional)
Elevate your Butterscotch White Russian by garnishing it with a drizzle of caramel sauce, a dollop of whipped cream, or a piece of butterscotch candy placed on the rim of the glass.
Notes
Use fresh, high-quality ingredients to enhance the flavor of your cocktail. Chilling your glass and using cold cream are small steps that make a big difference in the final result. For those who prefer a stronger drink, increase the vodka to 1.5 oz while maintaining the balance of the other ingredients. If you enjoy experimenting, try different brands of butterscotch schnapps and coffee liqueur to find your perfect combination.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 310
- Sodium: 25mg
- Protein: 1g