Blind Russian Recipe + Ingredients & Tips

how to make a Blind Russian recipe

📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Vodka
Alcohol 20%
Calories 327 calories
Fat 8g
Protein 1g
Carbohydrates 16g
Prep time 2 minutes

Ever pondered over the magic enclosed in a glass of Blind Russian, or thought about whipping up the perfect blend that tantalizes your taste buds while whisking you away on a refreshing cocktail journey? Today, we dive deep into the essence of the Blind Russian cocktail, exploring its rich history, unique flavor profile, and the artistry behind its presentation. Join us as we unravel the layers of this intriguing beverage, promising a sensory delight that mirrors its thematic elegance. Ready to be dazzled? Let’s embark on this flavorful adventure together. ⬇️

History

The Blind Russian, much like its relative the White Russian, is a delectable concoction that has warmed the hearts of many over the years. Its origins, steeped in mystery and cocktail lore, suggest a playful twist on classic recipes that have evolved into the drink we adore today. This beverage stands as a testament to the creativity and evolution of mixology, bridging cultures and tastes in a glass.

  • The name “Blind Russian” is a playful take on the White Russian, with the “blind” aspect humorously insinuating the drink’s potency.
  • Unlike its predecessors, the Blind Russian incorporates Baileys or another cream liqueur, adding a creamy texture and depth of flavor.
  • The drink’s popularity surged in the late 20th century, becoming a staple in bars that cherish creamy, dessert-like cocktails.

The taste of a Blind Russian?

Imagine a symphony of flavors where the richness of cream liqueur dances with the boldness of vodka, all while whispers of coffee liqueur add a hint of mystery. The Blind Russian is like a dessert that sips smoothly, leaving a creamy, sweet, and slightly coffee-tinged aftertaste that beckons for another round.

I personally find the Blind Russian irresistible due to its perfect balance of sweetness and strength. It’s like a hug in a glass after a long day.

Interesting facts about Blind Russian

  • The Blind Russian is often garnished with a cherry or a twist of orange peel, adding a festive flair to its creamy allure.
  • In some circles, it’s considered a “dessert cocktail,” perfect for sipping after dinner or as a nightcap.
  • Despite its name, the Blind Russian has no direct connection to Russia; the name is a nod to the vodka, a quintessential Russian spirit.

Ingredients 📃

  • Vodka: 1.5 oz (45ml)
  • Coffee Liqueur: 1 oz (30ml)
  • Cream Liqueur (like Baileys): 1 oz (30ml)
  • Ice Cubes

A rocks glass is your best bet for serving a Blind Russian, as its wide brim allows for the perfect sip, letting the aromas and flavors meld perfectly with each breath. An alternative could be a martini glass, lending an elegant touch to this creamy delight.

Recipe. How to make Blind Russian 🍹

  1. Fill a shaker with ice cubes.
  2. Pour in the vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream liqueur into the shaker.
  3. Shake well until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
  4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
  5. Garnish with a cherry or a twist of orange peel, if desired.

Blind Russians are delightful but remember they’re quite rich in sugar and calories. For a healthier twist, consider using a natural sweetener or a low-calorie cream liqueur. Also, while indulging, keep in mind the balance—enjoying responsibly is key to savoring its unique taste and character.

Rate this recipe


Food Pairings

Certain foods have the magical ability to elevate the Blind Russian experience, complementing its creamy and rich profile.

Chocolate Desserts

The creamy and slightly coffee notes of a Blind Russian pair exquisitely with the richness of chocolate, creating a match made in dessert heaven.

Cheese Platters

A cheese platter featuring a variety of textures and flavors can contrast beautifully with the smoothness of the cocktail, offering a delightful sensory experience.

Spicy Appetizers

The sweetness and creaminess of the Blind Russian can cool down and complement the heat from spicy dishes, providing a refreshing balance.

I love how the creamy sweetness of Blind Russians makes every sip feel like a special treat!


🍸 Mix up your beverage routine
Receive the freshest cocktail recipes and bar trends directly in your inbox.
Please enter a valid email address
That address is already in use
The security code entered was incorrect
Thanks for signing up

Bartender Advice

  • Chill your glass beforehand to keep the drink cool and refreshing.
  • Experiment with the ratio of ingredients to find your perfect balance of sweetness and strength.
  • Always use high-quality ingredients to ensure the best taste and cocktail experience.

Now that you’ve mastered the classic Blind Russian, in the sections below we’ll shake things up by showing the customizable elements you can alter and introducing a range of exciting variations to try in your next concoction.

What you could change in Blind Russian

  • Experiment with different brands of coffee liqueur for a unique twist on the classic flavor.
  • For a lighter version, substitute cream liqueur with almond milk or coconut cream.
  • Adjust the vodka to coffee liqueur ratio for a stronger or more mellow drink.

Blind Russian Variations

Espresso Blind Russian

  • Ingredients: Add a shot of espresso for a caffeinated kick.
  • Recipe: Follow the standard Blind Russian recipe, incorporating the espresso with the other liquids.

Vanilla Blind Russian

  • Ingredients: Use vanilla vodka for a sweet, aromatic twist.
  • Recipe: Substitute regular vodka with vanilla vodka, and blend as usual.

Spicy Blind Russian

  • Ingredients: Include a dash of chili powder or a spicy liqueur for heat.
  • Recipe: Add the spicy element to the shaker along with the other ingredients and shake well.

For those who prefer to enjoy the rich flavors without the alcohol, a Virgin Blind Russian is a delightful option. Simply mix coffee and cream flavored syrups with milk and serve over ice for a non-alcoholic treat that’s just as satisfying.

Q&A

Can I make a Blind Russian without coffee liqueur?

While coffee liqueur adds a unique flavor, you can experiment with chocolate or caramel syrups for a different yet delicious taste.

Is there a dairy-free version of the Blind Russian?

Absolutely! Swap out the cream liqueur for coconut cream or a plant-based milk to enjoy a dairy-free delight.

How can I make my Blind Russian less sweet?

Try reducing the amount of cream liqueur or substituting it with a low-sugar alternative to cut down on sweetness.

What’s the best way to garnish a Blind Russian?

A cherry or orange peel not only adds a pop of color but also complements the drink’s creamy texture and rich flavors.

Can I use flavored vodka in a Blind Russian?

Yes, flavored vodka such as vanilla or caramel can add an interesting twist to the classic recipe.

How does the Blind Russian differ from the White Russian?

The main difference lies in the use of cream liqueur in a Blind Russian, adding a distinct creaminess and flavor profile compared to the traditional White Russian.

Chris Glazer
Chris Glazer
Chris Glazer is a seasoned mixology and cocktail recipe writer at CocktailPlans.com. Chris has a deep passion for cocktail creation and mixology, and has been exploring and writing about the world of drinks for over 5 years.

Infected Whitehead

The Infected Whitehead cocktail is a curious and strong concoction, blending creamy and sharp flavors to surprise the palate. It is a bold, memorable drink that offers a unique taste experience with its unusual combination of ingredients.

Ocean Breeze

The Ocean Breeze cocktail is a tantalizing, fruity concoction that combines the crisp taste of vodka with the sweetness of cranberry and grapefruit juices, evoking the freshness of the sea. It's a delightful beverage that is both soothing and vibrant, perfect for savoring on a warm, sunny day.

Blue Skyline

The Blue Skyline is a vibrant, eye-catching cocktail that combines the tangy taste of citrus with the smoothness of vodka, all cloaked in a striking blue hue. It's a delightful concoction that's as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eye, perfect for special occasions.

Bob’s Old Fashioned

Bob's Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that combines the warmth of whiskey with the gentle sweetness of sugar and a dash of bitters for depth. It's a timeless drink, often garnished with a twist of citrus or a cherry, offering a smooth and sophisticated taste that's rich in tradition.

Purple People Eater

The Purple People Eater cocktail is a vibrant and fruity concoction, combining flavors like blueberry and cranberry, with a touch of citrus zest. It is a playful and visually striking drink that offers a sweet yet tart taste experience.

Sunny Screwdriver

The Sunny Screwdriver is a vibrant, citrus-flavored cocktail that combines the tangy taste of fresh orange juice with the smoothness of vodka. It is an enjoyable and simple drink that delivers a bright and cheerful splash of flavor in every sip.