Creamy Coconut Rum White Russian Recipe

The Creamy Coconut Rum White Russian is a tropical twist on the classic White Russian cocktail. This version swaps out the traditional vodka for coconut rum, bringing a smooth, tropical flavor to the creamy, coffee-infused drink. With rich coffee liqueur, creamy coconut milk, and a hint of rum, this cocktail is the perfect balance of indulgence and island vibes. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to unwind after a long day, this easy-to-make cocktail is sure to impress.

The Origin of the White Russian

The White Russian is a classic cocktail that became popular in the mid-20th century. It’s a variation of the Black Russian, which was invented in 1949 by a Belgian bartender and simply consisted of vodka and coffee liqueur. Adding cream to the mix created the White Russian, which gained iconic status in pop culture, especially after being featured in films like The Big Lebowski. This version, with the addition of coconut rum and coconut milk, gives the drink a fresh, tropical spin.

Key Ingredients and Why They Matter

Coconut Rum

Coconut rum replaces the traditional vodka in this recipe, adding a tropical sweetness that pairs beautifully with the coffee liqueur. Brands like Malibu work well, but you can also use any coconut-flavored rum of your choice.

• Tip: If you want a stronger drink, you can add a splash of regular rum or vodka in addition to the coconut rum.

Coffee Liqueur

Coffee liqueur like Kahlúa gives the drink its rich, deep flavor. The sweet coffee notes complement the coconut and cream, creating a smooth, luxurious drink.

• Pro Tip: For a stronger coffee flavor, you can use a more intense liqueur like Tia Maria, or even add a shot of espresso.

Coconut Milk

Instead of heavy cream, this version uses coconut milk for a creamy texture with a subtle tropical flavor. Full-fat coconut milk works best for a rich, indulgent finish, but you can also use coconut cream for an even thicker texture.

• Tip: For a lighter version, you can use light coconut milk or swap in almond milk for a different twist.

Ice

A White Russian is typically served over ice, which helps balance the rich flavors of the drink. Use large ice cubes to avoid diluting the cocktail too quickly.

How to Make a Creamy Coconut Rum White Russian

Step 1: Prepare the Glass

Fill a lowball glass or rocks glass with ice. If you want to get fancy, you can rim the glass with toasted coconut flakes for added texture and flavor.

Step 2: Add the Coffee Liqueur

Pour 1 ounce of coffee liqueur over the ice. The rich, dark flavor of the liqueur will be the base of your cocktail.

• Pro Tip: For a layered look, pour the coffee liqueur slowly to let it settle at the bottom of the glass.

Step 3: Add the Coconut Rum

Next, pour 1 1/2 ounces of coconut rum into the glass over the back of a spoon to keep it layered above the coffee liqueur. This helps create a visually appealing drink with distinct layers.

• Tip: Adjust the amount of rum based on your preference for a stronger or lighter cocktail.

Step 4: Add the Coconut Milk

Top the drink with 1 ounce of coconut milk, pouring it slowly over the back of a spoon to achieve a beautiful swirling effect as the milk mixes with the liqueur and rum.

• Tip: Shake the can of coconut milk well before pouring to ensure the cream and liquid are fully combined.

Step 5: Stir and Serve

Gently stir the drink to combine the flavors, and garnish with a sprinkle of shaved coconut, a coffee bean, or even a dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra touch.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Creamy Coconut Rum White Russian in a lowball glass with a wide straw for easy sipping. This cocktail pairs wonderfully with tropical snacks like coconut shrimp, pineapple salsa, or macadamia nuts.

For a dessert pairing, try serving it alongside chocolate truffles, tiramisu, or a slice of coconut cream pie.

Variations and Add-Ins

Frozen Coconut Rum White Russian

Blend the ingredients with ice for a frozen version of this cocktail. The creamy texture becomes even more indulgent, making it a perfect summer drink.

Spiced Coconut Rum White Russian

Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the drink for a warm, spiced twist. You can also use spiced rum instead of coconut rum for a different flavor profile.

Mocha Coconut Rum White Russian

For a chocolatey twist, drizzle chocolate syrup inside the glass before adding the ingredients. The chocolate and coffee flavors pair perfectly with the coconut rum for a richer, dessert-like drink.

Dietary Adaptations

This Creamy Coconut Rum White Russian can be adjusted for various dietary preferences:

• Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free due to the use of coconut milk.
• Vegan: Ensure your coffee liqueur is vegan-friendly, as some brands may use animal products in processing.
• Low-Sugar: Use a sugar-free coffee liqueur and unsweetened coconut milk for a lower-sugar version.

Frequently Asked Questions

Creamy Coconut Rum White Russian Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular milk or cream instead of coconut milk?
Yes, you can use regular heavy cream or half-and-half if you prefer a more traditional White Russian. However, the coconut milk adds a unique tropical twist.

Can I make this drink in advance?
While it’s best to serve this drink fresh, you can prepare the coffee liqueur and coconut rum mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just add the coconut milk and ice when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use flavored coffee liqueur?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different coffee liqueur flavors like mocha or vanilla for an extra layer of flavor.

Is there a non-alcoholic version of this drink?
Yes, you can make a non-alcoholic version by using non-alcoholic coffee syrup or espresso, and replacing the coconut rum with coconut water or a splash of coconut extract for flavor.