Name: Christmas Cocktail Gingerbread White Russian Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/4 cup honey; 3 tablespoons molasses; 1 inch fresh ginger, sliced; 2 cinnamon sticks; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 ounces (1/4 cup) vodka; 1 1/2 ounces (3 tablespoons) Kahlua; 1-2 ounces (2-4 tablespoons) gingerbread syrup; 1-2 ounces (2-4 tablespoons) heavy cream; Cinnamon sticks; Gingerbread cookies

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Okay, let me tell you about this Christmas Cocktail Gingerbread White Russian Recipe that has quickly become my go-to holiday treat. It’s like the cozy vibes of gingerbread wrapped up in a creamy, dreamy classic White Russian. The warm spices meld perfectly with the smooth vodka and coffee liqueur, making it just the right festive drink to sip by the fireplace or serve at your next holiday party.

What makes this recipe really special is the homemade gingerbread syrup—not only does it add that authentic spiced sweetness, but it feels like you’re drinking a little cup of Christmas magic. Whether it’s a snow day or a warm holiday gathering, this cocktail hits the spot every time. Trust me, once you try this Christmas Cocktail Gingerbread White Russian Recipe, it’ll be your new holiday favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together like the perfect holiday symphony—classic vodka and Kahlua layered with a rich, spiced gingerbread syrup and that luscious cream. Pro tip: using fresh ginger and good molasses really elevates the flavor of your syrup, so don’t skimp!

Honey: Adds a natural sweetness and a smooth texture that blends beautifully with molasses.
Molasses: The key to that classic deep gingerbread flavor, rich and slightly smoky.
Fresh ginger: Freshly sliced for a bright, spicy kick that’s way better than powder.
Cinnamon sticks: These infuse the syrup with warm, cozy spice notes.
Vanilla extract: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth, balancing out the spices.
Vodka: Your cocktail’s backbone—use a good-quality vodka for the smoothest taste.
Kahlua: Coffee liqueur that brings a rich, bittersweet flavor pairing perfectly with gingerbread.
Gingerbread syrup: The star ingredient that ties all the holiday flavors together.
Heavy cream: For that classic creamy finish, making the cocktail luxuriously smooth.
Cinnamon sticks and gingerbread cookies: Optional but highly recommended garnishes that add charm and extra festive flair.

Variations

I love tweaking this Christmas Cocktail Gingerbread White Russian Recipe depending on the mood and crowd—sometimes I go a little heavier on the cream for a richer drink, or add more ginger if I want extra spice. Don’t be shy about making it your own!

Dairy-free version: Swap heavy cream for coconut cream or almond milk for a tasty alternative—I’ve tried this for friends with lactose intolerance, and they loved it.
Spiced rum twist: Replace vodka with spiced rum for a warmer, deeper spice profile; it’s like a mulled wine cousin that’s just as festive.
Extra ginger kick: Add a splash of ginger liqueur if you really want to up the ginger flavor—works great for ginger lovers like me.
Mocktail version: Omit the alcohol and use extra gingerbread syrup mixed with cold brew coffee and a splash of milk for a kid-friendly treat that’s still festive.

How to Make Christmas Cocktail Gingerbread White Russian Recipe

Step 1: Make the Gingerbread Syrup

First things first—you want to get the gingerbread syrup going because that’s the heart of this cocktail. Combine the honey, molasses, sliced fresh ginger, and cinnamon sticks in a small saucepan. Bring it to a gentle simmer and let it cook low and slow for about 10 minutes until it thickens slightly and smells like Christmas itself. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, then strain out the solids. You can store this syrup in the fridge for up to two weeks, so it’s great to make ahead!

Step 2: Mix Your Christmas Cocktail Gingerbread White Russian

Now, grab a rocks glass and fill it halfway with ice. Pour in the vodka, Kahlua, and gingerbread syrup—start with 1 ounce of syrup and add more if you like it sweeter or spicier. Give it a gentle stir to combine.

Step 3: Top with Cream and Final Touches

Slowly pour heavy cream over the back of a spoon so it floats on top, giving you that gorgeous layered effect classic to a White Russian. You can stir it in or leave it layered as is—both ways look and taste amazing. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and maybe a gingerbread cookie on the rim to amp up the holiday cheer.

How to Serve Christmas Cocktail Gingerbread White Russian Recipe

The image shows a round glass filled with a two-layered drink, the bottom layer is light brown and the top layer is creamy white with a frothy texture, dusted with cinnamon powder. The rim of the glass is coated with cinnamon sugar. On the edge of the glass sits a gingerbread man cookie decorated with white icing. Inside the drink, a cinnamon stick and another small spice piece float slightly visible under the froth. The glass is placed on a shiny gold snowflake-shaped coaster on a white marbled surface sprinkled with powdered sugar. Warm white fairy lights and blurred green pine branches decorate the background. A similar glass with the same drink and cookie appears softly blurred beside it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I’m a big fan of keeping it simple yet festive: cinnamon sticks are a must for that extra aroma, and gingerbread cookies not only look adorable but also give you a sweet nibble alongside your drink. Sometimes I even sprinkle a tiny pinch of ground nutmeg on top for a little extra warmth.

Side Dishes

This cocktail pairs wonderfully with classic holiday treats like spiced nuts, cheese boards with dried fruits, or even buttery sugar cookies. Personally, I love serving it with a plate of gingerbread men cookies because it doubles the gingerbread bliss.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, I like to serve this Christmas Cocktail Gingerbread White Russian Recipe in vintage glassware with festive straws or mini candy canes as stirrers for a fun touch. Another lovely idea is to rim the glass with crushed gingerbread cookie crumbs mixed with a little brown sugar—it adds texture and a sweet punch with every sip.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually keep any extra gingerbread syrup in a sealed jar in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to two weeks, so you can whip up this cocktail anytime you want without remaking the syrup. As for the cocktail itself, it’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can store mixed, unsweetened vodka and Kahlua in the fridge if needed.

Freezing

Freezing the cocktail isn’t ideal because the cream can separate and change texture when thawed. However, the gingerbread syrup freezes beautifully if you want to batch make it during your holiday prep! Just defrost it in the fridge overnight before use.

Reheating

Since this is a cold cocktail, reheating isn’t something I’d recommend. But if you want to warm up the syrup for an iced coffee or tea, gently heat it on the stove until warm—never boil—to keep that rich flavor intact.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought gingerbread syrup instead of making my own?

Absolutely! While homemade syrup has that fresh, vibrant flavor, a good-quality store-bought gingerbread syrup works well too when you’re short on time. Just adjust the sweetness to taste since commercial syrups can be sweeter or thicker.
What’s the best vodka to use for this cocktail?

I recommend using a smooth, clean-tasting vodka—nothing too harsh or overly flavored. Mid-range brands like Tito’s or Absolut do the trick nicely and blend well with the rich coffee and gingerbread notes.
Can I make this drink vegan?

Yes! Simply use your favorite plant-based cream alternative like coconut cream or oat milk, and check that your gingerbread syrup ingredients are all vegan. This way, you’ll keep that creamy kick without dairy.
How long does the gingerbread syrup last?

Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, the syrup should stay fresh for up to two weeks. Make it ahead early in the season, and it’s ready anytime you want to impress guests with this Christmas Cocktail Gingerbread White Russian Recipe.

Final Thoughts

I have to say, this Christmas Cocktail Gingerbread White Russian Recipe holds a special place in my holiday heart—it’s the perfect blend of nostalgia and something a bit unexpected that always surprises guests in the best way. If you love cozy spices and creamy cocktails, you’re going to enjoy making (and sipping) this one as much as I do. So go ahead, give it a try this season—you’ll be glad you did!