A Peanut Butter Cup White Russian is the perfect marriage between a classic creamy cocktail and the nostalgic flavours of a chocolate–peanut butter treat. This playful twist on the traditional White Russian turns an already beloved drink into a luxurious, dessert-like sip ideal for holidays, celebrations, or cosy nights in. I particularly enjoy the balance of richness and sweetness; the peanut butter flavour complements the vodka and coffee liqueur without overwhelming the drink. I once tested this using almond milk instead of cream, and although it resulted in a slightly lighter texture, the flavour remained wonderfully smooth. The drizzle of chocolate syrup and the optional crushed peanut butter cups make each serving feel like a crafted cocktail from a specialty bar. Whether you’re treating guests or indulging in a personal evening delight, this cocktail delivers creamy decadence in every glass.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this cocktail because it delivers big, nostalgic flavour with minimal effort. The combination of coffee liqueur, vodka, and creamy peanut butter elements creates a velvety drink reminiscent of a classic candy bar. It feels festive and fun yet remains balanced enough for adults who don’t prefer overly sugary cocktails. It’s also incredibly flexible: you can adjust sweetness, creaminess, or strength in seconds, making it easy to tailor for different tastes or occasions.
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Indulgent Peanut Butter Cup White Russian for Dessert-Lover’s Cocktail Bliss
- Total Time: 5 mins
- Yield: 1 cocktail
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A decadent dessert-style cocktail twist on the classic White Russian, featuring creamy vodka, coffee liqueur, and a rich peanut-butter-infused finish reminiscent of a peanut butter cup.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 oz vodka
- 1 oz coffee liqueur (such as Kahlúa)
- 1 oz peanut butter whiskey or 1 tbsp creamy peanut butter
- 2 oz heavy cream or half-and-half
- Chocolate syrup (optional, for garnish)
- Crushed peanut butter cups or chocolate shavings (optional garnish)
- Ice
Instructions
- Fill a rocks glass with ice.
- Pour in vodka, coffee liqueur, and peanut butter whiskey (or stir in peanut butter until dissolved).
- Slowly top with heavy cream to create a layered effect, then gently stir if desired.
- Drizzle chocolate syrup over the top or inside the glass if using.
- Garnish with crushed peanut butter cups or chocolate shavings and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use peanut butter whiskey for the smoothest blend and best peanut butter flavor.
- Swap heavy cream for almond or oat creamer for a lighter version.
- Shake all ingredients with ice for a frothier, fully blended cocktail.
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stirred
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Vodka
Vodka serves as the clean, neutral spirit base that lets the peanut butter and coffee flavours shine without overpowering the drink.
Coffee liqueur
Coffee liqueur adds depth, warmth, and subtle sweetness. Its roasted notes pair beautifully with chocolate and peanut butter.
Peanut butter whiskey or peanut butter liqueur
This flavoured spirit provides the signature peanut butter taste and blends seamlessly into the creamy base.
Heavy cream or milk
Cream gives the cocktail its luscious, velvety texture. Milk works for a lighter drink and still blends well with the other components.
Chocolate syrup
Chocolate syrup creates a dessert-like finish, adding rich sweetness and enhancing the peanut butter cup profile.
Peanut butter cups (optional garnish)
Crushed or halved peanut butter cups make a playful topping that reinforces the cocktail’s theme and adds visual appeal.
Ice
Ice ensures the cocktail stays chilled while maintaining the smooth texture characteristic of a White Russian.
Directions
Begin by drizzling chocolate syrup into the inside of a chilled glass, creating decorative swirls. Fill the glass halfway with ice. In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine the vodka, coffee liqueur, and peanut butter whiskey. Shake briefly to chill and incorporate flavours. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass. Slowly pour the cream over the top to create a layered effect, or stir gently for a fully blended drink. Adjust sweetness by adding a touch more chocolate syrup if desired. Garnish with chopped or halved peanut butter cups. Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy, candy-inspired richness sip by sip.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease
Servings and timing
Serves 1
Prep time: 5 minutes
Total time: 5 minutes
Storage/reheating
This cocktail is best prepared fresh. If mixing ahead, combine the spirits in advance and refrigerate, then add cream and ice just before serving to maintain proper texture. Avoid storing fully mixed leftovers, as the cream may separate.
Variations and Customizations
Salted Peanut Butter Cup
Add a tiny pinch of sea salt on top for a more sophisticated sweet-salty profile.
Extra-Chocolate Version
Use double the chocolate syrup and garnish with shaved chocolate for a richer dessert feel.
Frozen White Russian
Blend the ingredients with ice for a creamy, frosty cocktail reminiscent of an adult milkshake.
Lightened Cocktail
Use milk instead of cream and reduce the chocolate syrup for a milder sweetness.
Stronger Sip
Increase the vodka or peanut butter whiskey slightly for a more spirit-forward drink.
Mocha Peanut Butter White Russian
Add a spoonful of chocolate milk or a splash of cold brew to deepen cocoa and coffee notes.
Non-Dairy Adaptation
Use almond cream or oat cream for a smooth, rich texture without dairy.
Hazelnut Twist
Add a splash of hazelnut liqueur for a flavour reminiscent of chocolate-hazelnut candies.
Cookie-Crust Rim
Dip the glass rim in chocolate syrup and crushed cookies for added texture and flair.
Holiday Style
Add a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm seasonal touch.
FAQs
Can I make this without peanut butter whiskey?
Yes, you can substitute peanut butter liqueur or add a teaspoon of creamy peanut butter whisked with the cream.
Can I make a batch version?
You can scale the spirits and cream, but add ice only when serving.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use plant-based cream alternatives such as almond or oat cream.
Will chocolate syrup sink to the bottom?
If layered properly, most of it stays along the glass, adding flavour as you sip.
Can I adjust the sweetness?
Absolutely—add more chocolate syrup or reduce it to suit your preference.
Should I shake the cream?
No, pour it gently for layering or stir lightly for a blended result.
Can I use evaporated milk?
Yes, it creates a rich texture similar to cream.
Is peanut butter whiskey very sweet?
It has mild sweetness, which complements the cocktail without overwhelming it.
Can I serve this over crushed ice?
Yes, though it will dilute more quickly.
Can kids drink the non-alcoholic version?
A mocktail variant is possible, but omit anything resembling liquor and use chocolate milk with peanut butter syrup instead.
Conclusion
The Peanut Butter Cup White Russian transforms a classic cocktail into a playful, indulgent treat that feels both sophisticated and nostalgic. Its creamy texture, balanced sweetness, and candy-inspired flavours make it a standout choice for dessert lovers and cocktail enthusiasts alike. Whether you enjoy it on a special occasion or as a luxurious nightcap, this drink brings charm, warmth, and an unforgettable flavour profile to the glass.
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