Layered Salted Caramel White Russian with Espresso
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker Essential for combining the vodka, espresso, and Kahlúa with ice. If you don’t have one, a mason jar with a lid works just fine.
- Jigger or shot glass For measuring your pours accurately.
- Spoon (preferably bar spoon) For layering the cream without mixing the whole drink.
- Highball or rocks glass A short glass works best to show off the beautiful layers.
- Espresso machine or French press For making fresh espresso. If you don’t have either, a strong instant coffee brew can do the trick.
Ingredients
Cocktail Base
- 1.5 oz salted caramel vodka or caramel vodka if you can’t find the salted version
- 1 oz coffee liqueur such as Kahlúa for a classic white Russian recipe Kahlúa twist
- 1 oz fresh brewed espresso cooled to room temperature
- 1 oz heavy cream you can sub with half-and-half or oat milk for a dairy-free version
- 0.5 oz salted caramel sauce plus more for garnish
- Ice cubes
Optional Garnishes
- Whipped cream
- Coarse sea salt for rim or topping
- Caramel sauce drizzle
- Chocolate shavings
Instructions
Step 1: Brew and Cool the Espresso
- Brew a shot of espresso or prepare strong coffee. You want it to be room temperature so it doesn't melt the ice or curdle the cream. Let it cool for about 5–7 minutes before using.
Step 2: Salt the Rim (Optional)
- Run a little caramel sauce around the rim of your glass, then dip it in coarse sea salt. This adds a bit of flair and a salty contrast to each sip.
Step 3: Shake the Base
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add the salted caramel vodka, coffee liqueur, and espresso. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds to chill and blend.
Step 4: Layer the Cream
- Strain the contents of the shaker into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice. Then, using the back of a spoon held just above the surface of the drink, gently pour in the heavy cream to create that beautiful float. This gives the drink its signature layered look.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Drizzle more caramel sauce over the top or add whipped cream and chocolate shavings if you're feeling festive. For extra punch, dust with a little sea salt or even a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg if you want a pumpkin spice white Russian vibe.