I really enjoy mixing up classic cocktails, and honestly, the White Russian just never gets old for me.
With a bit of creativity, I can turn that classic into a Ghostly White Russian Punch—something that’s actually perfect for a spooky party or Halloween night.
This easy cocktail recipe gives a fun twist to a well-loved drink, making it stand out at any gathering.
Mixology should be about having fun and experimenting, right?
In my version, the punch keeps those smooth flavors everyone loves, but with a spooky look that always gets people talking.
If you’re into classic cocktails and want something just a bit different for your next event, this ghostly version is worth a shot.
Ghostly White Russian Punch Cocktail Recipe
I like making this creamy, spooky drink for parties or Halloween nights.
With the right tools, easy-to-find ingredients, and some simple steps, it’s honestly fun to serve up a ghostly white cocktail that’s got a smooth coffee kick.
Equipment
- Large punch bowl: I grab one that’s big enough for the whole batch.
- Cocktail shaker: Makes everything mix together nice and smooth.
- Measuring cups and spoons: I measure out the vodka, Kahlúa, and cream so the flavors balance well.
- Ladle: Handy for serving without making a mess.
- Rocks or old-fashioned glasses: Pouring into these gives the punch a little haunted vibe.
- Ice cubes: Keeps the punch cold while you serve.
- Whisk: I like to whisk the cream so it’s even and silky.
- Small bowl (optional): Sometimes I make whipped cream on the side for topping.
Ingredients
- 2 cups vodka
- 2 cups coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa)
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- ½ cup simple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for a subtle, creamy flavor)
- 2 cups ice cubes (to keep everything chilled)
- Whipped cream (store-bought or homemade, for garnish)
- Espresso beans or chocolate shavings (for garnish and a little coffee bite)
- Black licorice strings or small ghost-shaped marshmallows (for a ghostly topping)
- Cocoa powder or edible glitter (optional, if you want a little sparkle)
Instructions
- Add vodka, Kahlúa, heavy cream, milk, and vanilla extract to the punch bowl.
- Whisk or stir until everything is blended and smooth.
- If you want it sweeter, mix in the simple syrup.
- Add 2 cups of ice cubes and stir.
- If you like, shake small batches of the punch with extra ice in a cocktail shaker for a frothier, creamier texture.
- Ladle the punch into rocks glasses or old-fashioned glasses filled with extra ice.
- Top each drink with whipped cream.
- Garnish with espresso beans, chocolate shavings, or ghostly decorations.
Notes
I keep the punch chilled until it’s time to serve—gotta keep that cream fresh.
Heavy cream gives it that thick, ghostly look, but you can use half-and-half or milk if you want it lighter.
Skim milk, though, ends up a bit thin for my taste.
Sometimes, I’ll add a shot of brewed espresso to each glass if I’m in the mood for more coffee flavor.
For a festive touch, ghost-shaped marshmallows or black licorice “floating” on top make the punch look haunting.
Rocks glasses and old-fashioned glasses are sturdy and perfect for this creamy drink.
I’ll sometimes sprinkle on edible glitter or cocoa powder for a little shimmer, but that’s just for fun.
If I’m making whipped cream from scratch, I whip heavy cream with a splash of vanilla for extra flavor.
Equipment
- Small bowl (for whipped cream or toppings)
Ingredients
- 2 cups vodka
- 2 cups coffee liqueur like Kahlúa
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup milk whole or 2%
- ½ cup simple syrup optional
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups ice cubes
- Whipped cream for garnish
- Espresso beans or chocolate shavings for garnish
- Black licorice strings or ghost-shaped marshmallows optional garnish
- Cocoa powder or edible glitter optional
Instructions
- Whisk or stir until well blended and smooth.
- Add simple syrup if you want it a bit sweeter.
- Stir in the ice cubes to chill the punch.
- For an extra creamy texture, shake small servings in a cocktail shaker with additional ice.
- Garnish with whipped cream, espresso beans, chocolate shavings, or fun Halloween-themed toppings like ghost marshmallows or licorice.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the spooky vibes!
Tasting Notes
When I take a sip of my Ghostly White Russian Punch Cocktail, the first thing I notice is the creamy texture.
It’s smooth and rich, just cold enough to feel cozy on a chilly night.
The mix of coffee liqueur and vodka is bold, but the cream mellows it out and adds a gentle sweetness.
I find the sweetness balanced—never too much, which I appreciate.
If I make this drink for a Halloween party, the pale color really adds a ghostly vibe.
It’s a fun nod to classic party themes and Halloween gatherings without being over the top.
Fans of The Big Lebowski would probably get a kick out of this punch’s classic White Russian taste.
Honestly, it fits in just as well at a movie night as it does at hauntingly delicious get-togethers.
For me, this punch stands out at any gathering when I want something classic, easy to sip, and just a little spooky.
Substitute
Sometimes I just don’t have everything on hand for the classic Ghostly White Russian Punch. When that happens, I start thinking about easy swaps.
Ingredients I often swap:
- Vodka: I’ll reach for gin instead if I’m after a more botanical kick.
- Coffee liqueur: Sometimes I’ll use an espresso martini mix, or even just some cold brew coffee—honestly, it gets pretty close.
- Cream: If I’m feeling dairy-free or just lighter, almond or oat milk usually does the trick.
Equipment I find helpful:
- Mixing pitcher
- Spoon or whisk
- Measuring cup
If I want something richer, I just leave out the cream and make a Black Russian. It’s bolder, a little more straightforward—just vodka and coffee liqueur, and that’s it.
For a fall twist, I might toss in a pinch of pumpkin spice. Sometimes I sprinkle it on top, or just mix it right in. It adds a fun, cozy vibe and a little hint of holiday flavor.
Instructions for simple swaps:
- Swap vodka for gin, same amount.
- Try espresso martini mix instead of coffee liqueur if that’s what you’ve got.
- Use milk alternatives for a lighter punch.
- Skip the cream for a Black Russian.
- Add a dash of pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist, if you’re into that.
