Salted Caramel White Russian Cocktail Recipe

I’ve always liked experimenting with drinks at home, and honestly, the Salted Caramel White Russian is hard to beat. It’s creamy, a little decadent, and brings together vodka, coffee liqueur, and that sweet-salty caramel flavor in one easy glass.

Perfect for winding down after dinner, or just sharing with a few friends on a chilly evening.

It’s super simple to make—takes maybe five minutes, tops. That mix of sweet, salty, and creamy is just so satisfying, and if you’re after a twist on the classic White Russian, this one’s worth a try.

Salted Caramel White Russian Cocktail Recipe

I keep coming back to this cocktail because the flavors just work—sweet, salty, creamy, and a little boozy. There’s caramel sauce, coffee liqueur, vodka, and cream, but it never feels over-the-top or fussy.

Equipment

• Short glass (Old Fashioned or Rocks glass)
• Cocktail shaker (optional, but helps mix the drink)
• Spoon for stirring
• Measuring jigger
• Small plate for rimming glass with sea salt (optional)
• Ice cubes

I usually grab a sturdy glass, and if I’m feeling fancy, I’ll use a shaker. Sometimes I just swirl the cream with a spoon. If you want that salty rim, a little plate helps.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon salted caramel sauce or caramel syrup (plus more for drizzling)
• 2 ounces vodka
• 1 ounce coffee liqueur (like Kahlua)
• 1 ounce Irish cream (optional for extra richness)
• 1 ounce heavy cream or half-and-half
• Pinch of flaky sea salt
• Ice cubes

More caramel if you want it sweeter, or just a touch if you don’t. I like heavy cream for that thick, rich feel, but half-and-half is fine too. The flaky sea salt makes it pop.

Instructions

• Drizzle caramel sauce around the inside of the glass and over the rim if you like extra flavor.
• Dip the rim in sea salt (optional).
• Fill the glass with ice cubes.
• Add vodka, coffee liqueur, and Irish cream (if using) to a cocktail shaker with a few ice cubes. Shake briefly.
• Pour the mixture into the prepared glass.
• Slowly pour heavy cream over the top to create a swirling effect.
• Stir gently or leave layered.
• Top with a pinch of flaky sea salt and another drizzle of caramel sauce if desired.

Taking a minute to swirl the cream and drizzle caramel really does make it feel special.

Notes

Salted caramel syrup melts in easier than a thick sauce, but honestly, both work. If you’re not into super sweet drinks, just go lighter on the caramel.

Sometimes I skip the shaker and just build the drink right in the glass. Not a big fan of too much salt? Just rim half the glass or sprinkle a little on top.

Tweak the vodka, coffee liqueur, or cream to get it exactly how you like—it’s pretty forgiving.

Tasting Notes

When I take a sip of the Salted Caramel White Russian, the flavor is both sweet and rich. The caramel hits first, buttery and bold, and then that little hint of salt sneaks in.

The drink’s creamy, thanks to the heavy cream. Honestly, it feels a bit like dessert in a glass—ideal for anyone who can’t resist a good dessert cocktail.

I really dig how the salt makes the caramel pop. The coffee liqueur adds just enough depth, so it doesn’t get too sugary.

If I let the ice melt a bit, everything gets even smoother. Sometimes I’ll pair it with a cookie or a thin slice of cake—makes for a ridiculously easy dessert.

Great for:

• Sipping slowly after dinner
• Sharing with friends at a small gathering
• Treating myself to a creamy, sweet cocktail