Put a tropical spin on a classic cocktail with this Coconut White Russian made with coconut milk instead of cream.
Once upon a time, a girl and a boy were happily married, didn’t have kids, and went on fabulous vacations. One of these vacations was to Zihuatanejo, Mexico, where they went to a restaurant called La Sirena Gorda (The Fat Mermaid). This restaurant served fish carnitas, which were outstandingly delicious, followed by coconut ice cream topped with Kahlua. This ice cream, albeit simple, was one of the girl’s favorite desserts. Ever.
This girl and boy are still very happily married, but now they DO have kids and drink cocktails at home instead of on a beach in Mexico. This tasty drink was inspired by that Mexican dessert and brings back fond memories.
In fact, it brings back such fond memories that I think I should brush up on my Spanish and think about a Mexican vacation with the kids! Have you travelled to the area with kids? Let me know if you have any recommendations! Meanwhile, I’ll just sip my Coconut White Russian and dream I’m back on that beach.
Put a tropical spin on a classic cocktail with this Coconut White Russian made with coconut milk instead of cream.
1. Pour all ingredients over ice in a rocks glass. Stir gently before enjoying.
I originally published this recipe in March 2013 but rephotographed and republished it in October 2015.
Wonder what you’ll do with the rest of the coconut milk? Here are some ideas!
Andi Gleeson is a passionate blogger and mom based in San Francisco who focuses on easy and delicious dinner recipes.
26 comments
Are you using cream of coconut? I see a can in the top photo and wanted to clarify.
Hi! No, I’m using canned coconut milk, not the kind you find with the soy milk and other milks. It’s found in the Asian section with other Thai ingredients. I’ll make a note in the recipe! I think when I wrote this, the drinkable coconut milk wasn’t popular and widely available.
Looks beautiful and delish!! Been loving coconut lately, this looks too good!
Thanks, Becky!!
I am kind of sad to say that I have never had a white russian before. But I am all about a great cocktail to remember a trip or different time in your life!
White Russians are SO easy to make, you could have one really easily :) Thank you, Erin!
I’ve never had a White Russian, but it looks like I’m missing out! I also can’t have dairy anymore so the coconut milk is right up my street! :)
Sorry you can’t have dairy. I can’t have wheat, and it has definitely been an adjustment. Thank you, Sheena :)
This sounds like the best idea ever.
Thank you, Cathy! xoxo
I vaguely remember those vacations without the kiddos but bringing them along is a different kind of adventure that is fun as well :) This white russian sounds perfect, Andi! Love the coconut milk!
I need to get up the nerve to take the boys on a big vacation. I think if we wait another year or so it will be so much easier. Maybe this summer! Thank you, Kelly :)
HAHA! Yeah, once upon a time… fun stuff, right? :-D
Is it okay that I drooled a bit after seeing this first photo? I’m LOVIN’ everything about this beautiful sipper.
That’s definitely OK, and I take that as a huge compliment since you are such an amazing photographer. Thanks, Katerina :)
Why didn’t I think of this. I have been wasting time :) All the ingredients are in my cupboards so a big thanks. :) I need a trip so bad. I can sip this on the the Florida Keys, right?
You are right! It’s vegan! Cheers, Ginny :) xo
I remember those days of adventurous vacations before the kids. White Russian is a favorite drink I love that you made a coconut version!! Cheers!
Thank you, Lora!
YUM! Love this use of coconut milk.
Thank you, Jamie!
I want 6 of these. NOW!
I think could arrange that very soon. ;)
Yummy! I will take one! Liz just shared your blog with me. Glad! :D
Thanks! Glad to have you :)
Go for it with your whipped cream vodka! I thought about using vanilla vodka but decided it might be too much to add one more flavor.
Yay, my first official Happy Hour post :-) Love the rooster glass, btw. Am off to scrounge up the coconut milk, kalhua, and vodka. Those here’s a naughty thought–what if I used my whipped cream vodka? hmmmm… Hope your Friday goes well. Always appreciate the fruits of your labors!