Limoncello White Russian Cocktail Recipe

I love putting a twist on classic cocktails, and this Limoncello White Russian does exactly that. It mixes the creamy comfort of the traditional White Russian with the bright, citrusy punch of limoncello.

You get a smooth, refreshing drink that feels familiar, but there’s something new and exciting about it too.

When I first swapped coffee liqueur for limoncello, I honestly didn’t expect the white rum and cream to blend so well with those lemon notes. The result took me by surprise—it reminded me a bit of a limoncello spritz, or maybe a lighter limoncello mojito, but with a richer, more indulgent vibe.

This recipe keeps things simple. You’ll probably have most of the ingredients on hand, and the steps are easy.

You’ll get a feel for how to balance the flavors, what gear you need, and what to expect when you take that first sip.

Limoncello White Russian Cocktail Recipe

I like how this drink blends the creamy taste of a classic White Russian with the bright flavor of limoncello. The mix of vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream creates a smooth base, and the lemon adds a fresh twist that keeps things from getting too heavy.

Equipment

• Rocks glass or martini glass for serving
• Cocktail shaker with a tight lid
• Jigger or small measuring cup
• Bar spoon for stirring
• Ice cubes for shaking and serving
• Strainer if you want a cleaner pour

I usually grab a shaker to chill the drink evenly. Rocks glasses feel classic, but a martini glass looks a bit more refined.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ oz vodka
• 1 oz coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa)
• 1 oz limoncello
• 1 oz heavy cream or half-and-half
• ½ oz fresh lemon juice (optional, for extra tartness)
• Ice cubes

I like heavy cream for a richer texture, but sometimes I’ll use half-and-half if I want it lighter. The lemon juice brightens everything up and balances out the sweetness.

Instructions

• Fill your cocktail shaker halfway with ice.
• Add vodka, coffee liqueur, and limoncello.
• Shake gently for about 10 seconds to blend and chill the mixture.
• Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
• Slowly pour the heavy cream over the back of a spoon to get that layered effect.
• Stir lightly if you want a blended look instead.
• Garnish with a lemon twist or maybe a dusting of coffee grounds.

I shake just enough to mix the spirits, but not so long that the ice waters it down. The layered look always feels a bit fancy.

Notes

I’ve noticed this cocktail tastes best when it’s super cold. The cream softens the vodka’s sharp edge, and the limoncello brings in that sweet citrus note that plays so well with the coffee flavor.

If you want a lighter drink, swap in half-and-half for the heavy cream. For a stronger coffee kick, just bump up the Kahlúa a bit.

Sometimes I’ll serve it in a martini glass for a slicker presentation, but honestly, I usually stick with the rocks glass—it just feels right in your hand.

Tasting Notes

That first sip? It’s smooth and creamy, kind of like a classic White Russian. I get this rich texture right away.

The limoncello jumps out with a bright citrus kick, slicing through the cream so it never gets too heavy.

I can’t help but think of warm evenings on the Amalfi Coast—lemons everywhere, soaking up the sun.

Coffee liqueur and lemon come together here, balancing sweet and tart in a way that just hangs around on your tongue.

As an after-dinner drink, it’s comforting but still manages to feel refreshing. The cream takes the edge off the alcohol, and the lemon keeps things interesting.

I really like how the flavors shift as the ice melts, mellowing out into something softer.

If you’re into The Big Lebowski, this twist on the “Dude’s” favorite creamy cocktail might catch your attention. It’s got that same laid-back vibe, but there’s an Italian spin that makes it memorable.