Two ingredient cocktails are some of my favorites, and this Black Russian is no exception! It’s so easy to put together, and just the right balance of strong, sippable, with the perfect hint of sweetness. Rich coffee notes make it a perfect after dinner sip, especially with dessert!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
A Black Russian is easy to love because it offers an elegant sip with very little effort. Just two ingredients – vodka and coffee liqueur – make up this minimalist classic drink, which delivers a deep, smooth flavor that feels indulgent without being fussy.
It strikes a great balance between richness and clarity. The coffee liqueur adds a dark sweetness and body, while the vodka keeps the drink bold and uncluttered. That contrast makes it work as a nightcap, an after-dinner drink, or something to sip slowly at a gathering.
There’s no need for syrups, garnishes, or tools beyond a glass and some ice, which makes it a go-to for anyone who likes their cocktails strong, streamlined, and satisfying!
Of course, that’s not to say you can’t add customizations if you’re feeling a little fancy! Try flavored vodkas, alternate coffee liqueurs, or add a splash of something complementary if you ever feel like experimenting.
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Ingredients Needed
- 2 ounces vodka
- 1 ounce Kahlua (or another coffee liqueur)
- Ice
Ingredient Tips and Substitutions
- For the vodka, something smooth and clean is ideal. Brands like Tito’s, Ketel One, or Absolut work well because they don’t bring harsh burn or distracting flavors. If you want to go top shelf, Grey Goose or Belvedere add a softer mouthfeel and subtle character without overpowering the coffee liqueur. Avoid overly sharp or budget vodkas, as the rough edges will stand out in such a minimal recipe
- When it comes to the coffee liqueur, Kahlúa is the classic choice: sweet, familiar, and approachable with a lighter coffee flavor. If you want something deeper and less sugary, Tia Maria has a more roasted profile and a slightly drier finish. For a richer and more intense option, Mr Black is excellent – it’s less sweet, more coffee-forward, and creates a darker, more adult version of the drink. Homemade or small-batch coffee liqueurs can also shine here if you like bolder or more nuanced notes!
Variations
While there are lots of ways to create unique variations of this classic recipe, here are some of my favorites to inspire you:
- Espresso Black Russian – Add a shot of fresh espresso for a bolder, less sweet, coffee-forward twist (this also helps to reduce the alcohol-forward taste)
- Black Magic – Include a splash of cherry liqueur and garnish with a dark cherry (such as a luxardo) for a moody, dramatic flavor
- Dirty Russian – Add a pinch of sea salt and a drop of vanilla or chocolate bitters for subtle depth and balance
- Black Belgian – Swap part of the coffee liqueur for chocolate liqueur or use chocolate vodka for a mocha-style version!
- Spiced Black Russian – Add chili, cinnamon, or cardamom bitters (or a tiny pinch of spice) for warmth and complexity
Step By Step Instructions
- Fill a lowball rocks glass with ice. I use a large cube or sphere usually, as it melts slower so there’s less dilution. However, you can definitely use regular cubes or crushed too
- Add the vodka and coffee liqueur and gently stir
- Top with a maraschino cherry to garnish (optional) and enjoy!
Food Pairing Suggestions
Savory Snacks
- Salted nuts or marcona almonds – The salt and fat balance the sweetness of the liqueur and smoothness of the vodka
- Charcuterie with aged cheeses – Think sharp cheddar, gouda, or manchego. The drink’s boldness holds up nicely against cured meats and rich cheeses
- Stuffed olives or crostini – Briny flavors contrast beautifully with the drink’s dark, sweet notes
Sweet Pairings
- Dark chocolate truffles or espresso brownies – The shared cocoa and coffee notes make these a natural match
- Tiramisu or chocolate mousse – Creamy textures and subtle bitterness play perfectly off the liqueur. My Tiramisu Mug Cake is the perfect option for 1-2 people!
- Chocolate‐covered espresso beans – A simple, elegant garnish‐adjacent treat
Small Bites
- Biscotti or shortbread – Light, buttery cookies don’t compete with the drink and give a nice textural contrast. Try my Air Fryer Biscotti recipe if you want to make your own!
- Coffee cake or chocolate babka – Warm spices and rich dough highlight the cocktail’s smooth warmth
- For colder weather, pair with gingerbread, pecan pie bites, or spiced nuts. Try my Air Fryer Gingerbread Cookies!
- Set it out with dark chocolate boards, candied orange peel, or espresso macarons for a late-night lounge vibe!
Recipe FAQs
Where Did The Black Russian Come From?
The Black Russian was created in the late 1940s by Belgian bartender Gustave Tops at the Hotel Metropole in Brussels. He mixed it in honor of a U.S. ambassador during the Cold War era. The “Black” refers to the coffee liqueur, and “Russian” to the vodka.
What Is The Difference Between A Black Russian And A White Russian?
A Black Russian combines just vodka and coffee liqueur over ice; bold and spirit-forward. A White Russian uses the same base but adds cream or milk, giving it a sweeter, smoother, and more dessert-like feel.
Can I Make A Mocktail Version?
Yes. Replace the coffee liqueur with strong cold brew or coffee syrup, and use a zero-proof vodka alternative or leave it out entirely.
A touch of vanilla or chocolate syrup can help mimic the richness of the original without alcohol, or add some sparkling water for a fun and fizzy finish.
Tips For the Best Black Russian
- Chill your glass in advance to keep the drink colder longer, with less dilution
- If you find the drink too strong, consider adding cold brew, Coke, or Guinness to dilute the alcohol bite. You could also add a scoop of ice cream for an affogato twist!
Serving Suggestions
- Glassware – A classic rocks glass or Old Fashioned glass is ideal, but you can use any similar lowball style glass you have
- Garnishes – Ungarnished is perfectly fine, or you can add a cherry (maraschino, luxardo, or brandied), an orange or lemon twist, or a coffee bean for a lovely finish
- For a moody or evening presentation, serve the drink with dim lighting or on a dark tray to match its name and tone
- Peanut Butter White Russian
Final Thoughts
This Black Russian is a classic and timeless cocktail for good reason! It’s simple, featuring just two ingredients, yet just the perfect balance of strong, sweet, and sippable.
With vodka and coffee liqueur being the main components, you’ve also got a lot of opportunities for variety – experiment with different brands and flavored components to create something unique and still delicious.
So kick back, and enjoy a delicious cocktail that’s easy to make, yet elegant all the same. If you love the dramatic and moody vibes this mixed drink gives, make sure to check out all of my Black Cocktails for more inspiration!
Easy Black Russian Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Old fashioned glass (or similar)
Ingredients
- 2 ounces vodka
- 1 ounce Kahlua (or another coffee liqueur)
- Ice
- Maraschino cherry (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Fill a lowball rocks glass with ice. I use a large cube or sphere usually, as it melts slower so there’s less dilution. However, you can definitely use regular cubes or cracked ice tooIce
- Add the vodka and coffee liqueur and gently stir2 ounces vodka, 1 ounce Kahlua
- Top with a maraschino cherry to garnish (optional) and enjoy!Maraschino cherry
Notes
- Choose a smooth, clean vodka. Brands like Tito’s, Ketel One, or Absolut are good choices, or if you want to go top shelf try Grey Goose or Belvedere. Avoid overly sharp or budget vodkas, as the rough edges will stand out since it’s so prominent here
- For the coffee liqueur, Kahlúa is the classic choice, but Tia Maria has a deeper roasted profile and a slightly drier (less sweet) finish. For a richer and more intense option, try Mr. Black, or a homemade/small batch variety
- Exact nutritional values will vary based on brand and flavor of ingredients, any garnishes added, and quantity consumed, so please consider this a guideline only
Nutrition
