A White Russian daiquiri is a refreshing summertime cocktail that combines flavors of coffee, chocolate, and citrus. It’s made by blending rum, coffee liqueur, and cream of coconut with fresh lime juice. The end result is a decadent frozen drink with a sweet yet tart flavor profile.
While traditional White Russians are made with vodka, heavy cream, and coffee liqueur, the daiquiri version substitutes rum for vodka and uses cream of coconut instead of heavy cream. This gives the drink a lighter, more tropical flair. The lime juice adds a burst of acidity to balance out the sweetness.
Below we’ll explore the origins of this cocktail, the ingredients that go into it, step-by-step instructions for making it, recommended garnishes, and some delicious flavor variations. Read on to learn everything you need to know about mixing up this crowd-pleasing frozen treat!
Origins of the White Russian Daiquiri
The original White Russian cocktail is believed to have been created in the 1960s. It became widely popular after appearing in the 1998 film The Big Lebowski, where it was a favorite drink of the main character.
The White Russian daiquiri is a more recent creation that combines the flavors of a White Russian with the frozen, blended consistency of a daiquiri. Daiquiris have their own storied history – the classic daiquiri containing rum, lime juice, and sugar originated in the late 19th century in Cuba.
Over time, the daiquiri evolved into a category of frozen blender drinks made with rum and fruit flavors. The piña colada and strawberry daiquiri are two examples. The White Russian daiquiri merges the best elements of both cocktails – the indulgent flavors of a White Russian with the slushy, frozen pleasure of a daiquiri.
White Russian Daiquiri Ingredients
The ingredients needed to make a White Russian daiquiri include:
Rum
A white or golden rum is used, rather than dark or spiced rum. Light rum allows the coffee and coconut flavors to shine. An 80 proof rum works best. Some examples are Bacardi Superior, Don Q Cristal, and Banks Five Island.
Coffee Liqueur
Coffee liqueur provides the signature roasted coffee taste. Kahlúa is the most popular coffee liqueur used. Others such as Tia Maria or Creme de Cafe may be substituted. Use 3/4 ounce per drink.
Cream of Coconut
Cream of coconut gives the drink a luscious, creamy texture similar to a Piña Colada. It also adds subtle coconut sweetness. Brands like Coco Lopez or Coco Reál are recommended. Use around 1 ounce per serving.
Fresh Lime Juice
Freshly squeezed lime juice adds bright citrus acidity that balances the sweetness. Use around 1 ounce per drink. Bottled lime juice may be substituted in a pinch.
Ice
Plenty of ice is required for the blending process. Use crushed ice or small cubes for a smooth, slushy texture.
Simple Syrup
A small amount of simple syrup helps sweeten and soften the tart lime. Use no more than 1/2 ounce per serving.
Step-By-Step Instructions
Here is a simple walkthrough for how to make a White Russian daiquiri:
Add ingredients to blender
First, add your rum, coffee liqueur, cream of coconut, lime juice, simple syrup (if using), and several cups of ice to a blender. For a single serving, use roughly:
– 2 oz white rum
– 3/4 oz coffee liqueur
– 1 oz cream of coconut
– 1 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (optional)
– 1 cup ice
Blend until smooth
Blend the mixture on high speed until thoroughly combined and icy smooth. This takes 1-2 minutes. Be sure to scrape down the sides as needed. The result should be a uniformly blended, frosty beverage.
Pour into glass
Pour the daiquiri into a chilled hurricane glass, margarita glass, or hollowed-out pineapple half. For a crowd, serve in shallow wine glasses.
Garnish (optional)
If desired, garnish with something like a lime wheel, chocolate shavings, toasted coconut, or festive paper umbrella!
Enjoy immediately
Serve the White Russian daiquiri right away before it melts. Sip and savor the cold, creamy coffee-coconut-lime flavors!
Recommended Garnishes
Part of the fun of blended drinks is decorative garnishes. Here are some fitting options for the White Russian daiquiri:
– Lime wheel – adds a final citrus flourish
– Chocolate shavings – sprinkles of dark chocolate enhance the cocoa notes
– Toasted coconut – either flakes or shredded coconut toast up nicely
– Whipped cream – dollops of sweet whipped cream on top
– Sprinkles – colorful or coffee-flavored sprinkles make a fun finishing touch
– Paper umbrella – a tiny paper umbrella instantly says “tropical vacation”
– Coffee beans – whole beans make for simple yet sophisticated garnish
– Cinnamon stick – accents the coffe flavors and adds visual interest
Feel free to get creative and garnish with any decorations that complement the flavors! Or simply serve unadorned.
Flavor Variations
One of the great things about daiquiris is how customizable they are. Try these delicious spins on the White Russian daiquiri:
Mocha
Add 2 tablespoons of chocolate syrup along with the other ingredients to make it taste like a mocha frappuccino.
Mint Chocolate Chip
Blending in 2 tablespoons of crème de menthe and 2 tablespoons cacao nibs or chocolate chips gives it a cool mint chocolate chip flavor.
Cookies and Cream
Add 1-2 tablespoons of Oreo cookie crumbles for a fun cookies and cream twist.
Almond Joy
Swap the cream of coconut for almond milk and add 1/4 teaspoon almond extract for an Almond Joy vibe.
Hawaiian
Use spiced rum, sub pineapple juice for the lime, and garnish with pineapple instead of lime.
Mudslide
Omit the lime juice and blend in 1/4 cup milk or Irish cream for an indulgent mudslide version.
Serving Suggestions
Here are some tips for serving White Russian daiquiris at your next gathering:
Batch ahead of time
Mix a large batch in a pitcher beforehand so all you have to do is pour. Keep stored in the freezer until ready to serve.
Set up a build-your-own bar
Let guests customize their own daiquiris with various flavors, toppings, and garnishes set out. Provide the basic ingredients plus any extra add-ins.
Serve in hollowed-out pineapples
For a super fun, tropical presentation hollow out a fresh pineapple half and serve the daiquiri inside – garnished with pineapple leaves if desired!
Pair with coffee-flavored treats
Offer mocha brownies, chocolate-covered espresso beans, or other coffee-centric snacks alongside the cocktails.
Include festive straws and napkins
Straws patterned with pineapples, coconuts, etc. help set the island mood. Coordinating decorative napkins add a nice finishing touch.
However you choose to serve them, White Russian daiquiris are sure to be a huge hit at your next warm weather gathering! Their rich yet refreshing flavor provides the perfect beat-the-heat treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about White Russian daiquiris:
Are White Russian daiquiris creamy?
Yes, the addition of cream of coconut gives White Russian daiquiris a smooth, creamy texture similar to a milkshake or piña colada.
Do you need ice cream to make it?
No ice cream is required. The creamy consistency comes from blending cream of coconut, rum, and ice together.
Can it be made without alcohol?
You can omit the rum and replace with coconut water or milk for a virgin version. But the rum is key for the true White Russian flavor profile.
Is it very sweet?
While sweeter than a traditional daiquiri thanks to the coffee liqueur and cream of coconut, the fresh lime juice provides puckering tartness to cut through the sweetness.
Should it be served frozen or on the rocks?
White Russian daiquiris are best served frozen, like a slushy. The icy texture is part of what makes them so refreshing.
What’s the difference from a normal White Russian?
A White Russian daiquiri is blended with ice and contains lime juice, while a regular White Russian is served chilled and up. The daiquiri is lighter and more tropical tasting.
Nutrition Information
Here are the nutrition facts for one serving (10-12 oz) of a White Russian daiquiri:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 270 |
| Fat | 4g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | 25mg |
| Carbohydrates | 24g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sugars | 20g |
| Protein | 1g |
As you can see, the drink is high in calories and sugar, mainly from the cream of coconut. But it contains minimal fat and sodium. Overall, the White Russian daiquiri makes for an occasional indulgent treat, rather than an everyday beverage.
The Final Pour
The White Russian daiquiri is a decadent frozen cocktail that beautifully blends coffee, chocolate, coconut, citrus, and rum flavors. It’s made by simply combining coffee liqueur, rum, cream of coconut, lime juice, and ice in a blender until smooth. For best results, use high quality ingredients and freshly squeeze the lime juice. Then garnish with festive adornments before serving. Sip and enjoy this luxurious iced coffee-lover’s delight! With so many possible flavor variations, you could experiment with new White Russian daiquiri recipes all summer long. Just be sure to pair it with good company and conversation – this is one cocktail meant for savoring. Cheers!