Pink Russian Cocktail Recipe: Creamy, Fun, and Unexpectedly Bold

Introduction
Looking for your next show-stopping dessert cocktail? This pink Russian cocktail is the creamy twist you didn’t know you needed. Inspired by the classic White Russian, this playful pink version blends vodka, coffee liqueur, cream, and a sweet surprise—raspberry liqueur or grenadine. It’s rich yet refreshing, smooth yet cheeky, and it sips like the adult version of your favorite childhood strawberry treat. In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to make a pink Russian cocktail, answer your top questions, and sneak in some Peruvian-American love from my kitchen to yours. Let’s stir up something sweet with a bold edge.

Table of Contents

PART 1: My Story Behind the Pink Russian Cocktail

Grandma, Cream, and a Twist on a Classic

I’m Alex Morgan, and the first time I tasted a proper White Russian wasn’t in a smoky bar—it was in my own apartment, while trying to replicate one from The Big Lebowski. But, instead of sticking to the standard, I reached for what I had: raspberry syrup from a cheesecake experiment and a carton of heavy cream on its last leg. The first sip of that happy accident? Pure velvet.

Pink Russian cocktail with raspberry and cream layers

Pink Russian Cocktail

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I’m Alex Morgan, a Peruvian-American food blogger, and this pink Russian cocktail was a happy mistake turned favorite. One late debugging session, I swapped out standard cream with raspberry syrup and cream on a whim. The result? A bold, berry-kissed twist on the White Russian that felt like sipping a dessert Rosa might’ve sold at a Lima market. Every time I pour the cream and watch it swirl into pink clouds, I hear her voice: “Does it sing?” This one does.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Course cocktails, Drinks
Cuisine American, Fusion
Servings 1 cocktail
Calories 230 kcal

Equipment

  • Cocktail Shaker
  • Rocks glass
  • Spoon

Ingredients
  

Heavy cream

  • 1.5 oz Vodka Any quality neutral vodka
  • 1 oz Coffee liqueur Kahlúa recommended
  • 1 oz Heavy cream Substitute with coconut or oat milk if dairy-free
  • 0.5 oz Raspberry liqueur or grenadine For sweetness and pink color

Instructions
 

  • Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add vodka, coffee liqueur, and raspberry liqueur or grenadine.
  • Shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds.
  • Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
  • Float cream on top by pouring it over the back of a spoon. Stir gently or serve layered.

Notes

Try coconut cream or oat milk for a dairy-free version. Garnish with raspberries or chocolate drizzle for extra flair.
Keyword creamy vodka cocktail, Heavy cream, pink Russian cocktail, raspberry white Russian, Vodka

It reminded me of Grandma Rosa’s coconut-strawberry popsicles sold by street vendors in Lima—silky, nostalgic, and a little unexpected. That was my cue. This pink Russian cocktail wasn’t just a fluke; it became a signature, right next to our Classic White Russian.

What Is a Pink Russian Cocktail?

At its core, a pink Russian cocktail is a creamy, coffee-kissed vodka drink with a sweet pink finish. Most recipes include vodka, coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa), cream or milk, and something pink—typically raspberry liqueur, strawberry syrup, or grenadine. That last ingredient gives it its signature blush and subtle fruit flavor.

Unlike the traditional White Russian, the pink Russian has an extra layer of flavor that feels almost dessert-like. It belongs in the same creamy cocktail family as the Mudslide Martini or Peanut Butter White Russian—bold, sweet, and indulgent without apology.

PART 2: Ingredients and Tools You’ll Need

Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Pink Russian

Here’s what you need for one drink:

IngredientAmount
Vodka1.5 oz
Coffee liqueur (Kahlúa)1 oz
Heavy cream1 oz
Raspberry liqueur or grenadine0.5 oz
Ice cubesAs needed

Want it dairy-free? Swap the cream with coconut milk or oat cream—it still gives that rich mouthfeel without the lactose.

This riff pairs beautifully with other creamy spins like the Salted Caramel White Russian, especially if you’re a fan of decadent twists.

Tools You’ll Want Handy

You don’t need a bar cart to make this. Grab:

  • An old-fashioned or rocks glass
  • A cocktail shaker or mason jar
  • Jigger or shot glass for measuring
  • Bar spoon (or any spoon, really)
  • Ice

Want to dress it up? Rim the glass with pink sugar or add a raspberry on top. Presentation matters when the drink looks this dreamy.

Pink Russian cocktail with raspberry and cream layers
Pink Russian Cocktail Recipe: Creamy, Fun, and Unexpectedly Bold 6

PART 3: How to Mix This Dreamy Sip

Step-by-Step: Your Creamy Raspberry Vodka Delight

Making this cocktail is easier than it looks, and it’s a total crowd-pleaser. Here’s how to whip it up at home:

  1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
  2. Add vodka, coffee liqueur, and a splash of raspberry liqueur (or grenadine if you prefer a touch more sweetness).
  3. Shake vigorously for about 10 seconds.
  4. Strain into a rocks glass with fresh ice.
  5. Slowly pour heavy cream over the back of a spoon to create a smooth float.
  6. Stir lightly before drinking—or leave it layered for a beautiful ombré effect.

For a decadent twist, garnish with a fresh berry or a drizzle of chocolate sauce like we use in the Chocolate Milkshake White Russian. It adds a dessert-like finish that pairs beautifully with the creamy texture.

Flavor Notes: Rich, Smooth, and Just Sweet Enough

This drink hits the sweet spot between indulgent and balanced. The combination of coffee liqueur and cream gives it a rich base, while the berry liqueur adds just enough tartness to make it pop. It’s perfect for slow sipping after dinner—or whenever you want something that feels both cozy and a little flirty.

Not into dairy? You can use oat milk, coconut cream, or even almond milk for a lighter spin. The texture holds up beautifully without the heaviness, much like other creative cocktails on RecipesTrip.

Pink Russian cocktail with raspberry and cream layers
Pink Russian Cocktail Recipe: Creamy, Fun, and Unexpectedly Bold 7

Conclusion

When you’re craving a dessert-inspired drink that’s smooth, striking, and has a subtle fruity surprise, this vibrant twist on a creamy vodka classic checks all the boxes. It’s simple enough for a casual night in, yet impressive enough to serve at your next get-together.

Want more decadent creations? Try pairing it with our Mudslide Martini or the Salted Caramel White Russian for a full-on sweet and spirited lineup. Whether you serve it layered or stirred, one thing’s for sure—it’s a cocktail that looks as good as it tastes.

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How to make pink Russian?

Shake vodka, coffee liqueur, and raspberry liqueur with ice. Strain into a glass over ice, then float heavy cream on top. Stir gently and serve.

What’s in a pink Russian cocktail?

Vodka, coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa), cream or milk, and raspberry liqueur or grenadine for that signature pink hue.

What does a pink Russian taste like?

It’s a creamy blend of bold coffee, subtle fruit sweetness, and smooth vodka—like a dessert that knows it’s an adult.

Can you make a pink Russian without cream?

Yes! Use coconut milk, almond milk, or oat cream for a dairy-free twist that still brings the richness.

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