If there’s ever a time to indulge in a rich, creamy cocktail that feels like a cozy sweater in a glass, it’s during the holidays. The Holiday Hazelnut White Russian with Frangelico Cream is exactly that kind of indulgence. This isn’t just your average white russian cocktail. We’re taking the classic and giving it a festive, nutty twist that tastes like a white Christmas drink wrapped in a silky ribbon of hazelnut warmth. With just the right amount of boozy bite and a velvety finish, it’s the perfect drink to sip by the fireplace or serve at your next holiday party.
Holiday Hazelnut White Russian with Frangelico Cream
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Total Time 10 minutes mins
Course Beverage
Cuisine American
Cocktail shaker or mason jar with a lid For mixing the liquids together smoothly
Jigger or shot glass For measuring out spirits
Hand mixer or whisk To whip up that luxurious Frangelico cream
Rocks glass or old-fashioned glass A sturdy glass that lets the creamy layers shine
Bar spoon or small spatula To help layer and stir if needed
For the Cocktail
- 2 oz vodka – Use a high-quality vodka; since this drink is spirit-forward smoother is better.
- 1 oz Kahlúa – This is the backbone of a classic white russian recipe. If you have another coffee liqueur on hand you can substitute it, but Kahlúa gives that iconic flavor.
- 1 oz Frangelico – A hazelnut liqueur that adds depth and holiday flair.
- 1 oz heavy cream – To give it that thick creamy body we all love in creamy cocktails.
For the Whipped Frangelico Cream
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp Frangelico
- 1 tsp powdered sugar – Optional but adds a touch of sweetness to balance the liqueurs.
Garnishes (Optional but festive)
- Crushed hazelnuts or graham crackers for the rim
- A dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon
- Mini gingerbread cookies if you're going for that gingerbread white russian vibe
- Whole coffee beans or a cinnamon stick for garnish
Step 1: Make the Frangelico Cream
In a small bowl, combine ½ cup heavy cream, 1 tbsp Frangelico, and 1 tsp powdered sugar. Whip with a hand mixer or whisk until soft peaks form. You want it to hold its shape but still be spoonable. Set aside in the fridge while you prepare the drink.
Step 2: Rim the Glass (Optional)
If you want to go all out on presentation, dip the rim of your glass in a little Kahlúa or simple syrup, then press into crushed hazelnuts or graham cracker crumbs. This is especially charming for holiday gatherings or if you’re pairing with christmas cookies recipes.
Step 3: Assemble the Drink
Fill your rocks glass with ice. In a shaker (or another glass), combine 2 oz vodka, 1 oz Kahlúa, and 1 oz Frangelico. Shake or stir well, then pour over the ice.
Step 4: Top with Cream
Spoon the Frangelico cream gently over the top of the drink. It will float beautifully if done gently, creating a two-tone effect that looks straight out of a snowy cocktail dream.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Top with a light dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg. Add a mini gingerbread cookie or a cinnamon stick for an extra festive touch. This also makes it feel like a gingerbread white russian, especially if you play up the spice notes.
Pairings
This white russian drink pairs perfectly with spiced holiday desserts. Think snickerdoodles, molasses cookies, or even classic gingerbread men. The creamy hazelnut profile complements the warm spices and balances sugary bites.
If you’re hosting a cocktail party, serve this as part of a white christmas cocktail bar, alongside drinks like a white christmas margarita recipe or a pumpkin spice white russian for a winter wonderland lineup. You can even make a pitcher version and call it a white christmas punch to serve a crowd.
For a savory bite, salty snacks like roasted nuts, aged gouda, or prosciutto-wrapped dates work beautifully against the sweetness of this drink.
FAQs
1. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the drink will be thinner. Whole milk or half-and-half works better than skim milk. For the whipped topping, you really do need heavy cream to get those soft peaks.
2. Is vodka essential? Can I substitute it?
Vodka is the base spirit in a white russian cocktail, but if you're feeling creative, try a spiced rum or vanilla vodka for an added flavor twist.
3. What’s the best type of cream for the whipped Frangelico topping?
Heavy whipping cream is best. Don’t use light cream or milk alternatives if you're aiming for that rich, cloud-like topping.
4. What’s the difference between this and a gingerbread white russian?
This version leans into hazelnut and nutty warmth. A gingerbread white russian typically uses gingerbread syrup or spices, although you could absolutely combine the two ideas. Just add a bit of molasses and ground ginger to the drink base or use gingerbread white russian ingredients like cinnamon and clove.
5. Can I batch this for a party?
Absolutely. Multiply the drink base ingredients by the number of servings, mix in a pitcher, and serve over ice. Whip the cream just before serving. This makes it an ideal addition to your list of easy Christmas cocktails recipes or simple Christmas cocktails to serve during the season.
