Do you want to know how to make a White Russian without coffee liqueur? In this article, we’ll share several tips for making this liqueur-free cocktail.

A White Russian is a smooth, creamy cocktail made from vodka, cream, and coffee liqueur. However, if you’re making cocktails at home, you don’t need to fret if you don’t have coffee liqueur on hand.
Whether you want a White Russian with a little less alcohol or a little less caffeine or want to use ingredients you already own, there are plenty of alternatives to coffee liqueur to make a White Russian that still packs a punch.
Making a White Russian without coffee liqueur is easy. All you must have are a few common household ingredients.
What Do You Need:
- Vodka
- Cream
- Coffee
- Chocolate extract
- Coffee Ice Cream
- Baileys (optional)
- Water
- Ice
- Milk
How To Make A White Russian Without Coffee Liqueur
We have put together three different options for making a White Russian without coffee liqueur, so there should be something for everyone. You can choose any of the three methods and enjoy your drink at home.
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Method 1
Step 1: Make A Coffee Liqueur Replacement

To replace coffee liqueur, mix one teaspoon of instant coffee with two tablespoons of water. Then add this to half a teaspoon or a full teaspoon of chocolate extract. Put the mixture to one side and move on to the next step.
Step 2: Mix The Coffee And Vodka
Fill a glass with ice cubes. Add the vodka and the coffee liqueur replacement.
Step 3: Drizzle With Cream
Slowly drizzle the cream on top of the drink. Then swirl the cream in with the vodka and coffee liqueur replacement.
Step 4: Garnish
If you want to put a finishing touch on your drink, sprinkle it with some cocoa powder or cinnamon.
Step 5: Serve
Your drink is ready to enjoy!
Method 2:
Step 1: Add Regular Coffee

For a milder White Russian, simply replace the amount of coffee liqueur with the equivalent of an espresso shot, or add an equivalent amount of coffee either from a cold brew or a strong cup of coffee. Espresso can also be substituted for non-alcoholic coffee extract or coffee syrup. Bear in mind that this version will be less sweet than other White Russian recipes.
Step 2: Start Preparing The Drink
Leave your coffee to one side. Then fill a small glass with ice. Add the vodka and coffee to the glass. You might want to add some sugar or simple syrup for some sweetness.
Step 3: Add The Cream
Add cream to the top of your drink. Then stir the mixture together.
Step 4: Garnish
Feel free to top your drink with a dash of cocoa powder or cinnamon to garnish.
Step 5: Serve
Your drink is ready to be served!
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Method 3:
Step 1: Allow Coffee Ice-Cream To Soften

Allow the coffee ice cream to soften. Ideally, you should get plain coffee ice cream. It is fine if it’s not completely melted as long as it is soft enough to be malleable.
Step 2: Mix The Ice-Cream With Some Milk
Once the coffee ice cream has melted enough, put it in a glass and stir in a dash of milk.
Step 3: Add The Alcohol
Add a vodka shot to the coffee and ice cream mix and stir.
Step 4: Add Some Bailey’s (Optional)
For a little extra special treat, add some Baileys to your drink It will give it a wonderful sweetness and creaminess.
Step 5: Mix Your Drink
Mix the concoction together. It technically isn’t officially a White Russian if we’re being picky, but you still have a creamy coffee cocktail without coffee liqueur.
Step 6: Garnish
Sprinkle some cacao powder or cinnamon on top of your drink. This version of a White Russian cocktail should also be thick enough to top with some coffee beans. You may also be interested in reading about the varieties of cacao.
Resources
If you like this article, read our guide on making a caramel ice coffee with a Keurig.
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