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Holiday Hazelnut White Russian with Frangelico cream

Holiday Hazelnut White Russian with Frangelico Cream

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Beverage
Cuisine American
Servings 1 Cocktail

Equipment

  • 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

Ingredients
  

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

Instructions
 

Step 1: Make the Frangelico Cream

  1. 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)

  1. 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

  1. 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

  1. 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

  1. 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.