How to Make a Black Russian Cocktail: Simple Recipe for a Classic Drink

Creating a Black Russian cocktail is easier than you might think, and it’s a timeless classic worth mastering. To make a Black Russian, you need two main ingredients: 1.5 ounces of vodka and 3/4 ounce of coffee liqueur. These simple yet delicious components blend perfectly to offer a rich, smooth flavor that’s hard to beat.

The key to nailing this cocktail is quality. Choose a good-quality vodka; it makes all the difference. I remember a time when I used a low-tier vodka, and it completely overwhelmed the flavor of the coffee liqueur. It’s an easy mistake to make, but one you’ll want to avoid.

Serve your Black Russian over ice in a rocks glass for the best experience. I sometimes like to add a couple of coffee beans on top as a garnish just for that extra touch. It might seem small, but these little details elevate your drink to a new level.

Crafting the Classic Black Russian

Creating a perfect Black Russian cocktail involves carefully selecting ingredients, choosing the right glassware, and mastering the mixing technique. Pay attention to these details, and you’ll craft a delightful drink every time.

Choosing Your Ingredients

A Black Russian is straightforward with just two primary ingredients: vodka and coffee liqueur. For the vodka, choose one that’s smooth. I recommend 2 ounces of your favorite vodka.

For the coffee liqueur, 1 ounce of Kahlúa is a classic choice. It adds a rich, sweet flavor.

If you run out of Kahlúa, a homemade mix of coffee syrup and a splash of rum can do the trick. Experiment with different brands to find your preferred flavor balance.

Presentation and Mixing Process

Serve a Black Russian in a rocks glass—a short, sturdy glass perfect for this type of cocktail.

Fill the glass halfway with ice. The ice is crucial; it chills the drink and dilutes it slightly, balancing the strong flavors of vodka and coffee liqueur.

You might want to add a garnish. While it’s not traditional, an orange slice or a maraschino cherry can add a pop of color and a hint of extra flavor.

Pour the vodka and coffee liqueur over the ice in the rocks glass. Stir gently for roughly 10 seconds.

I learned that over-stirring can dilute the drink too much. I had a guest at a party who noted it seemed “watery.” A few gentle stirs will mix without losing potency.

If you prefer a slightly foamy texture, shake the ingredients with ice in a shaker for about 5 seconds before pouring them back into a fresh glass of ice.