White Ukrainian Cocktail Recipe

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White Ukrainian Nutrition Facts

Calories:285

Fat:9g

Protein:1g

Carbohydrates:11g

Alcohol:14%

Created by

Nic Polotnianko

I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.

Last Updated: January 7, 2024

History

The White Ukrainian is a creamy and indulgent cocktail that is a twist on the classic White Russian. It's believed to have emerged as a variation when bartenders started experimenting with different ingredients to create new and exciting drinks.

  • Origins: While the exact origin is unclear, it's a modern concoction that plays on the popularity of its predecessor.
  • Popularity: This drink has gained a following among those who enjoy a richer, dessert-like cocktail.
  • Preferred by: It's particularly favored by those who appreciate the combination of coffee liqueur and cream, but are looking for something with a bit more complexity than a White Russian.

How White Ukrainian Tastes?

The White Ukrainian is velvety smooth, with a rich coffee flavor that's balanced by the sweetness of the cream. It's a decadent drink with a slight vodka kick, making it both comforting and invigorating.

Interesting facts about White Ukrainian

  • The White Ukrainian is often enjoyed as an after-dinner drink.
  • It's sometimes made with ice cream instead of cream for an even more dessert-like experience.
  • Despite its name, there's no direct connection to Ukraine; the name is a play on the White Russian.

Ingredients

A few good options for White Ukrainian are:

  • Grey Goose
  • Belvedere
  • Khor
  • Smirnoff

Learn everything on which Vodka to choose

Vodka

Vodka is like the well-dressed silent partner in this cocktail, providing a strong, boozy foundation without overpowering the other flavors. At 1.5 oz, it's just enough to let you know it's there without turning the whole thing into a Vladimir's party. Cut down on it and you might as well be sipping on an adult milkshake; pour in more and you might wake up in Siberia.

Substitutes: If you're out of vodka, clear unflavored rum could stealthily take its place, subtly altering the profile while remaining incognito behind the cream and coffee.

Mary Mitkina

Coffee Liqueur

This is the ingredient that wakes your taste buds up and sing 'Good morning, Ukraine!' 1 oz lets the party linger but doesn't drown out the vodka's whispers. The coffee liqueur brings depth and that beloved bitterness to balance the sweetness. Without it, you'll have a lonely White Russian wondering where its friend went.

Substitutes: If coffee liqueur isn't your thing, consider a chocolate liqueur for a smoother, sweeter ride, but remember, it's a bit like swapping a caffeinated morning for a sugar rush.

Alex Green

Cream

The cream, at 1 oz, floats like a dream atop this liquid masterpiece creating that signature layered look. It smooths out the harsh edges of the vodka and complements the coffee's complexity. Skimp on the cream and your drink might come off a bit too bold; drown it, and you've got a dairy farm in a glass.

Substitutes: Not a fan of cream? Try half-and-half for a lighter touch or a plant-based milk alternative for a vegan twist – though it may not layer as traditionally, it'll still taste like an Eastern European hug.

Emma Rose

Recipe. How to make White Ukrainian Drink

  • Pour 1.5 oz of vodka into an old-fashioned glass filled with ice.
  • Add 1 oz of coffee liqueur.
  • Gently pour 1 oz of cream on top to create a layer.
  • Serve with a stirrer on the side.

Pro Tips

  • Chill the glass before making the cocktail to keep it cold longer.
  • Use high-quality coffee liqueur for the best flavor.
  • If you prefer a well-mixed drink, stir the ingredients before adding the cream.

Perfect Pairings

Sweet Desserts

A White Ukrainian cocktail pairs beautifully with sweet desserts, especially those emphasizing chocolate or coffee flavors. The creaminess of the cocktail complements the richness of desserts like:

  • Chocolate cake: The deep flavor of cocoa pairs well with the coffee liqueur.
  • Tiramisu: Coffee-soaked ladyfingers in tiramisu match the coffee notes in the drink.

Savory Snacks

For a contrast with savory flavors, consider snacks like:

  • Mixed nuts: The saltiness can enhance the sweet and creamy components of the cocktail.
  • Cheese platter: A variety of cheeses works well with the vodka's clean taste and the sweetness of the liqueur.

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What you could change in White Ukrainian

  • Vodka: Can be substituted with a light rum for a milder taste.
  • Coffee Liqueur: A chocolate liqueur can be used for a different twist.
  • Cream: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or milk.

Explore all drinks starting with W here

And of course - twists🍹

Black Ukrainian

Replace the cream with a black sambuca to create an extra layer of depth and anise flavor. This twist will also have a darker appearance:

  • Pour 1.5 oz vodka over ice in a glass.
  • Add 1 oz coffee liqueur.
  • Top with 1 oz black sambuca.
  • Serve with a sense of mystery.

The anise notes give a spicy twist, and the cocktail will taste more licorice-like and less creamy.

Spiced Ukrainian

Give the cocktail a little kick by adding a spice syrup, such as cinnamon or nutmeg. This is perfect for the colder months:

  • Mix 1.5 oz vodka, 1 oz coffee liqueur, and 0.5 oz spiced syrup in a shaker.
  • Pour over ice in a glass.
  • Top with 1 oz of cream.
  • This gives you warmth and comfort in a glass with a spicy zing.

The spices will enhance the coffee flavor and add a warm complexity.

Nutty Ukrainian

Substitute half of the coffee liqueur with a hazelnut liqueur for a nutty twist:

  • Pour 0.5 oz coffee liqueur and 0.5 oz hazelnut liqueur into a glass over ice.
  • Add 1.5 oz vodka.
  • Float 1 oz of cream on top.
  • Enjoy the extra layer of nutty sweetness.

This version introduces a sweet nuttiness that pairs wonderfully with the vodka and cream.

In case you forgot basics how to make White Ukrainian

Insert the spoon into the glass until it touches the bottom. Keep the back of the spoon against the inside wall of the glass, and stir in a smooth, circular motion. The goal is to swirl the ice and ingredients together without churning or splashing.

Learn everything on how to stir

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Frequently Asked Questions on White Ukrainian

Can the White Ukrainian be made dairy-free?

Yes, you can use almond, soy, or coconut milk as dairy-free alternatives to cream.

What type of glass is traditionally used for serving a White Ukrainian?

A White Ukrainian is traditionally served in an old-fashioned glass.

How can I make the White Ukrainian sweeter?

You can add a small amount of simple syrup or use a flavored coffee liqueur to increase the sweetness.

Is the White Ukrainian suitable for vegans?

Not as described, but it can be made vegan by substituting the cream with a vegan alternative like coconut cream.

What is the best type of coffee liqueur to use for a White Ukrainian?

A high-quality coffee liqueur like Kahlúa or Tia Maria is recommended for the best flavor.

How should I store coffee liqueur after opening?

Store coffee liqueur in a cool, dark place. Refrigeration is not necessary, but you can refrigerate it to extend its shelf life.

Can I make a batch of White Ukrainians for a party?

Yes, you can pre-mix the vodka and coffee liqueur in a pitcher, and then pour over ice and add cream as you serve.

What are the best snacks to pair with a White Ukrainian?

Rich desserts or chocolate treats pair well with the creamy and coffee flavors of a White Ukrainian.

What's the difference between a White Russian and a Black Russian?

A Black Russian is made with vodka and coffee liqueur without the cream, making it a stronger, less creamy drink.

Can I make a non-alcoholic version of the White Ukrainian?

Yes, a non-alcoholic version can be made with a coffee-flavored syrup instead of coffee liqueur and a non-alcoholic spirit alternative for vodka.

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