Black Russian Recipe
- Add the ingredients: In a rocks glass, add 2 oz (60 ml) vodka and 1 oz (30 ml) coffee liqueur (such as Kahlúa).
- Add ice: Fill the glass with ice cubes.
- Stir gently: Stir the drink gently to combine the vodka and coffee liqueur.
- Serve: Serve immediately. No garnish is needed for this simple, classic cocktail.
Explore: Black Russian Variations
Black Russian Ingredients
- 2 oz (60 ml) vodka – A smooth, high-quality vodka forms the base of the drink.
- 1 oz (30 ml) coffee liqueur (such as Kahlúa) – Adds sweetness and rich coffee flavor.
- Ice – To chill the cocktail and enhance the sipping experience.
Black Russian FAQ
What is a Black Russian made from?
A Black Russian is made from just two ingredients: vodka and coffee liqueur (such as Kahlúa). It’s a simple, rich cocktail that combines the smoothness of vodka with the sweetness of coffee liqueur.
Can I adjust the strength of a Black Russian?
Yes! You can adjust the strength by increasing the amount of vodka or decreasing the amount of coffee liqueur based on your taste preference.
How should a Black Russian be served?
A Black Russian is served in a rocks glass filled with ice. The drink is stirred gently and typically not garnished.
What is the difference between a Black Russian and a White Russian?
A White Russian adds cream or milk to the mix of vodka and coffee liqueur, making it a richer and creamier version of the Black Russian.
What is the origin of the Black Russian?
The Black Russian was created in 1949 by a Belgian bartender named Gustave Tops at the Hotel Metropole in Brussels. It was named for the Cold War tensions between the U.S. and Soviet Union, with “black” symbolizing the dark ingredients and “Russian” for the vodka base.
