Name: Gingerbread White Russian: Cozy Up with This Festive Twist
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Water (The base for your gingerbread syrup; no substitutions necessary.); 0.5 cup Honey or Maple Syrup (Adds sweetness and depth; maple for a woodsy touch.); 0.25 cup Molasses (Contributes rich, dark sweetness; omit for lightness.); 1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger (Provides warmth and spice; dry ginger can substitute but alters texture.); 2 sticks Cinnamon Sticks (Infuses aromatic spice into the syrup.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Enhances sweet complexity; opt for real vanilla for the best flavor.); Ice Ice (Essential for chilling your drink; there are no alternatives.); 2 ounces Vodka (The base spirit; substitute with spiced rum or brandy for a twist.); 1 ounce Kahlúa or Coffee Liqueur (Brings a roasted flavor.); 1.5 ounces Gingerbread Syrup (Provides the signature flavor; adjust quantity to taste.); 1 ounce Heavy Cream (Adds creamy richness; for dairy-free, use oat milk or coconut cream.); 1 Cinnamon and Sugar Mixture (Perfect for rimming the glass.); 1 Mini Gingerbread Cookies (A delightful decorative touch.); to taste Ground Cinnamon or Nutmeg (For an extra aromatic finish.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

“Did you hear that? The sound of laughter and clinking glasses at holiday gatherings, where everyone comes together to celebrate joy and connection. This Gingerbread White Russian captures that festive spirit perfectly, transforming your cocktail experience into a delightful huddle of warmth. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll whip up a creamy drink that evokes memories of cozy gingerbread baking sessions, making it a fantastic addition to your Christmas drink recipes. Plus, this festive holiday cocktail is incredibly versatile, featuring options for non-alcoholic versions or dairy-free alternatives. Whether you’re hosting a merry party or enjoying a quiet evening by the fire, this cocktail promises to impress and satisfy. Ready for a taste of holiday cheer in a glass? Let’s mix it up together!”

Why is this cocktail the ultimate holiday treat?

Cozy Warmth: The Gingerbread White Russian wraps you in a delightful embrace of spices and cream, reminding you of festive gatherings and cheerful celebrations.

Versatile Options: With choices for non-alcoholic and dairy-free versions, everyone can enjoy this creamy concoction tailored to their preferences!

Quick & Simple: In just a few minutes, you’ll have a luxurious drink ready to dazzle your guests without complicated preparations.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The enchanting blend of gingerbread syrup, vodka, and coffee liqueur is a guaranteed hit for holiday parties or intimate gatherings.

Make-Ahead Convenience: Craft the gingerbread syrup ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for up to two weeks—perfect for spontaneous festive gatherings!

Looking for more holiday joy? Check out these delicious Gingerbread Men Cookies to pair with your drinks!

Gingerbread White Russian Ingredients

Nothing beats the festive spirit captured in this Gingerbread White Russian!

For the Gingerbread Syrup

Water – The base for your gingerbread syrup; no substitutions necessary.
Honey or Maple Syrup – Adds sweetness and depth; maple for a woodsy touch.
Molasses – Contributes rich, dark sweetness and classic gingerbread flavor; omit for lightness.
Fresh Ginger – Provides warmth and spice; dry ginger can substitute but alters texture.
Cinnamon Sticks – Infuses aromatic spice into the syrup; ground cinnamon works but may not infuse as strongly.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances sweet complexity; opt for real vanilla for the best flavor.

For the Cocktail

Ice – Essential for chilling your drink; there are no alternatives.
Vodka – The base spirit that balances flavors; substitute with spiced rum or brandy for a twist.
Kahlúa or Coffee Liqueur – Brings a roasted flavor to your drink; any coffee liqueur works here.
Gingerbread Syrup – Provides the signature flavor; adjust quantity to taste based on your preference.
Heavy Cream – Adds creamy richness; for dairy-free, use full-fat oat milk or coconut cream.

Optional Garnishes

Cinnamon and Sugar Mixture – Perfect for rimming the glass; adds both flavor and festive charm.
Mini Gingerbread Cookies – A delightful decorative touch that enhances your drink’s presentation.
Ground Cinnamon or Nutmeg – For an extra aromatic finish that heightens the holiday experience.

Gather these ingredients, and get ready to swirl joy into your gatherings with this delightful Gingerbread White Russian!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gingerbread White Russian

Step 1: Prepare Gingerbread Syrup
In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of water, ½ cup of honey or maple syrup, ¼ cup of molasses, 1 tablespoon of sliced fresh ginger, and 2 cinnamon sticks. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally for 3-5 minutes. Once boiling, remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Let it cool before straining into a jar, and store in the refrigerator.

Step 2: Prepare Glass
To make your serving glass festive, optionally rim a rocks glass with gingerbread syrup. To do this, dip the rim in the syrup before rolling it in a mixture of sugar and ground cinnamon for added flavor and decoration. Fill the glass with ice cubes, ensuring it is generously packed to keep your cocktail chilled as you prepare to mix your Gingerbread White Russian.

Step 3: Mix Cocktail
In your prepared glass filled with ice, pour 2 ounces of vodka and 1 ounce of Kahlúa or your preferred coffee liqueur. Then, drizzle in 1 ½ ounces of the homemade gingerbread syrup you prepared earlier, adjusting the quantity based on your flavor preference. Using a long spoon, stir the mixture gently for about 10-15 seconds to blend the ingredients together without disturbing the ice too much.

Step 4: Layer Cream
To create a beautiful layered effect in your Gingerbread White Russian, slowly pour 1 ounce of heavy cream over the back of a spoon, allowing it to float atop the mixed cocktail. The cream should cascade gently, creating a lovely contrast with the dark gingerbread mixture below. Take care with your pouring technique to achieve this visually pleasing presentation.

Step 5: Garnish
For a final festive touch, sprinkle a small pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg atop the cream layer. You can also add a delightful mini gingerbread cookie on the rim of the glass for added charm. If desired, give your cocktail a light stir before serving to integrate the flavors, ensuring that every sip of this Gingerbread White Russian is a cozy holiday delight.

Make Ahead Options

These Gingerbread White Russians are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts! You can make the gingerbread syrup up to two weeks in advance by combining water, honey or maple syrup, molasses, sliced ginger, and cinnamon sticks in a saucepan. Once cooked, let it cool, strain, and store the syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This prep not only saves you time during busy holiday gatherings but ensures that you have this delightful flavor ready to mix whenever needed. When it’s time to serve, simply pour the yogurt, Kahlúa, and prepared gingerbread syrup over ice, layer with cream, garnish, and enjoy a cozy holiday cocktail without the last-minute rush!

What to Serve with Gingerbread White Russian

Experience the warmth and joy of the holiday season by crafting a memorable meal that perfectly complements the Gingerbread White Russian.

Spiced Ginger Cookies: The perfect match for your cocktail, these crunchy treats echo the ginger and spices in your drink, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their velvety texture and buttery richness stand in perfect contrast to the spiced flavors of the Gingerbread White Russian, making for an indulgent pairing.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of these crispy sprouts balances the sweetness of the cocktail while providing a crunchy texture to each sip.
Christmas Charcuterie Board: A festive spread of cured meats, cheeses, and seasonal fruits allows guests to graze, providing a delightful interplay of flavors that pairs wonderfully with your drink.
Hot Cocoa Bar: Create a cozy gathering by offering a self-serve hot cocoa station, complete with whipped cream and marshmallows, enhancing the holiday spirit alongside the Gingerbread White Russian.
Sparkling Cider: This fruity and effervescent beverage adds a refreshing element to your meal, making the rich flavors of the cocktail sing even louder as you toast to the season.
Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in rich, molten chocolate goodness; it pairs perfectly with the creamy notes of the Gingerbread White Russian, creating a decadent dessert experience.
Mulled Wine: The warm spices from mulled wine complement the festive flavors of your cocktail, making it an excellent drink choice for holiday celebrations.

Gingerbread White Russian Variations

Feel free to let your creativity flow with these variations that elevate your Gingerbread White Russian experience!

Spiced Rum: Swap vodka for spiced rum to infuse cozy warmth and a festive twist. The rich flavor blends beautifully with the gingerbread notes!
Brandy: Use brandy instead of vodka for a luxurious, smooth finish. It adds depth and pairs wonderfully with the ginger and spices.
Non-Alcoholic Delight: Mix gingerbread syrup with strong brewed coffee and top with cream or coconut cream for a delightful non-alcoholic experience. Perfect for everyone to enjoy!
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute heavy cream with full-fat oat milk or coconut cream to create a vegan version that’s just as rich and satisfying. Your taste buds won’t miss out!
Chocolate Drizzle: For an indulgent treat, drizzle chocolate syrup inside the glass before pouring your drink. It adds sweetness and a delightful visual surprise!
Extra Spices: Experiment with a pinch of nutmeg or clove in the gingerbread syrup for an aromatic boost that enhances the holiday spirit. Just feel those warm spices envelop you!
Gingerbread Syrup Extra: Adjust the amount of gingerbread syrup to make the cocktail sweeter or bolder, depending on your palate. It’s all about personalizing the flavor!
Garnish Variations: Instead of mini gingerbread cookies, try using a cinnamon stick or peppermint stick as a stirrer for a unique and festive garnish experience!

Looking for even more cheerful recipes? Pair your drink with these tasty Gingerbread Men Cookies for a cozy seasonal treat that complements every sip.

How to Store and Freeze Gingerbread White Russian

Fridge: Store any leftover gingerbread syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, ensuring it stays fresh for your next delightful cocktail.

Freezer: You can freeze excess gingerbread syrup in ice cube trays for easy use later. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag and use within 3 months.

Reheating: If you have syrup stored, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave before mixing your Gingerbread White Russian.

Ice Storage: Always prepare ice fresh before mixing the cocktail; pre-made ice can water down the drink if left too long in the freezer.

Expert Tips for Gingerbread White Russian

Cool Syrup First: Ensure the gingerbread syrup is completely cooled before straining it to avoid inconsistencies in texture.
Layering Technique: For a stunning visual effect, pour the cream slowly over the back of a spoon. This creates a beautiful layered look for the Gingerbread White Russian.
Spice Adjustments: Don’t be afraid to experiment with spices like star anise or cloves in the syrup for an enhanced flavor profile; just remember to balance them carefully.
Substitutions Matter: If using spiced rum or brandy instead of vodka, adjust the quantity of gingerbread syrup for a well-rounded taste.
Garnish with Care: Opt for quality garnishes, like freshly grated nutmeg or high-quality cookies, as they elevate the presentation and flavor of your cocktail.

Gingerbread White Russian Recipe FAQs

What type of ginger is best for the syrup?
Absolutely! Fresh ginger is the star here, providing warmth and spice that dry ginger can’t quite match. If you’re out of fresh ginger, using dry ginger is a viable alternative—just remember it will affect the texture, giving it a different mouthfeel.

How long can I store the gingerbread syrup?
You can keep your homemade gingerbread syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks! This makes it super convenient for last-minute holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.

Can I freeze the gingerbread syrup?
Yes, you can easily freeze the gingerbread syrup! Pour the syrup into ice cube trays and freeze until solid. Once frozen, place the cubes in a freezer-safe bag and store them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight.

What if my cream doesn’t layer nicely?
No worries! If the cream isn’t layering as you hoped, try pouring it slowly over the back of a spoon. This technique helps it float on top of the cocktail, creating that lovely visual contrast. If it still mixes in too much, ensure your syrup is chilled well to help keep the cream separate.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very! For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with full-fat oat milk or coconut cream. Additionally, if you’re accommodating those with allergies, double-check that your coffee liqueur doesn’t contain any allergens, and consider alternatives to honey for vegan needs!

Can I make a non-alcoholic version?
Absolutely! Create a fantastic non-alcoholic Gingerbread White Russian by mixing the gingerbread syrup with strong coffee and topping it with your chosen cream alternative. It maintains all the cozy flavors without the alcohol. Enjoy every festive sip!