White Russian Cocktail
Caffeine
4–5 mg
Note: Caffeine amounts are based on a standard White Russian made with 1 oz coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa). Actual caffeine may vary depending on the brand of liqueur and the amount used.
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Caffeine Level | Very Low |
| Serving Size | 4.5 fl oz |
| Serving Size (ml) | 133 ml |
| Caffeine | 4–5 mg |
| Calories | 303 kcal |
| Sugar | 13 g |
| Caffeine per fl oz | 1 mg/fl oz |
The White Russian is a creamy, coffee‑flavored cocktail that blends vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream or milk. While it’s known more for its smooth, dessert‑like taste than its caffeine content, the coffee liqueur does contribute a small but noticeable amount of caffeine.
What is a White Russian?
A White Russian is a classic cocktail that became especially popular in the late 20th century, known for its rich, indulgent flavor profile. It’s essentially a Black Russian (vodka + coffee liqueur) with the addition of cream or milk for a velvety texture.
- Vodka – The base spirit, providing a clean alcoholic backbone.
- Coffee Liqueur – Usually Kahlúa or Tia Maria, adding sweetness and coffee flavor.
- Cream or Milk – Balances the alcohol and adds a smooth mouthfeel.
- Serving Style – Typically served over ice in an old‑fashioned glass.
- Occasion – Popular as an after‑dinner drink or dessert cocktail.
This combination makes the White Russian a comfort‑style cocktail — rich, sweet, and easy to sip.
How Much Caffeine is in a White Russian?
The caffeine in a White Russian comes almost entirely from the coffee liqueur. Standard recipes use about 1 oz (30 ml) of Kahlúa, which contains roughly 4–5 mg of caffeine.
- 1 oz Kahlúa – 4–5 mg caffeine
- 2 oz Kahlúa (stronger recipe) –~8–10 mg caffeine
- Vodka – 0 mg caffeine
- Cream or Milk – 0 mg caffeine
- Cold Brew Variations – Can add 50–100 mg caffeine depending on amount used
Compared to coffee‑based cocktails like an espresso martini, the White Russian’s caffeine content is very low — more of a flavor accent than a stimulant.
Calories and Sugar Content
While caffeine is minimal, the White Russian is calorie‑dense due to its cream and liqueur content.
- Vodka (1.5 oz) – 97 kcal, 0 g sugar
- Kahlúa (1 oz) – 103 kcal, 11 g sugar
- Heavy Cream (1 oz) – 103 kcal, 1 g sugar
- Milk (substitute) – 15–20 kcal, 1–2 g sugar
- Ice – 0 kcal
A standard serving with heavy cream can reach 300+ kcal and 12–15 g sugar, making it a rich treat best enjoyed occasionally.
Ingredients Overview
The White Russian’s ingredient list is short but impactful, combining alcohol, sweetness, and creaminess.
- Vodka – Neutral spirit that lets the coffee flavor shine.
- Coffee Liqueur – Sweet, coffee‑infused liqueur with mild caffeine.
- Cream or Milk – Adds body and balances the alcohol.
- Ice – Chills and slightly dilutes the drink for smoother sipping.
- Optional Garnish – Cocoa powder, nutmeg, or coffee beans.
This trio of core ingredients creates a cocktail that’s as much about texture as it is about taste.
Nutritional Facts at a Glance (Standard White Russian, 4.5 oz)
A typical White Russian made with 1.5 oz vodka, 1 oz Kahlúa, and 1 oz heavy cream contains:
- Calories – 303 kcal
- Total Fat – 9 g
- Sodium – 15 mg
- Total Carbohydrates – 16 g
- Sugars – 13 g
- Protein – 1 g
- Caffeine – 4–5 mg
- Caffeine per fl oz – 1 mg/fl oz
This makes it a low‑caffeine but high‑calorie cocktail — more of a dessert drink than an energy booster.