Description
This Gingerbread White Russian is a festive twist on the classic cocktail, combining the warmth of ginger, cinnamon, molasses, and honey with vodka, Kahlua, and creamy heavy cream. Perfect for holiday gatherings, this rich and aromatic drink offers a cozy, indulgent experience that captures the essence of gingerbread flavors in a smooth cocktail.
Ingredients
Scale
Syrup and Spice Mix
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 tablespoons molasses
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1/2 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Liquids and Mixers
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 1/2 oz Kahlua
- 2 oz gingerbread syrup (prepared from above ingredients)
- 2 oz heavy cream
Garnish
- Cinnamon sticks
- Gingerbread cookies
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the gingerbread syrup: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, molasses, minced ginger, cinnamon sticks, ground cinnamon, and granulated sugar with 1 cup of water. Stir the mixture frequently until the sugar dissolves and the syrup begins to thicken slightly, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the syrup cool and strain out the solids.
- Mix the cocktail: In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, pour the vodka, Kahlua, and 2 oz of the prepared gingerbread syrup. Shake well to combine and chill the mixture.
- Assemble the drink: Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with ice. Slowly pour the heavy cream over the back of a spoon to create a layered effect, or gently stir to combine if preferred.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with a cinnamon stick and a gingerbread cookie on the side. Serve immediately for a festive and flavorful cocktail experience.
Notes
- The gingerbread syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Adjust the amount of ginger and cinnamon to suit your taste preferences for spice intensity.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy creamer.
- Using freshly minced ginger enhances the flavor more than pre-ground or powdered ginger.
- This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh but can be prepped ahead by making the syrup in advance.
