Imagine the nostalgic comfort of toasted marshmallows over a glowing campfire, now imagine that warmth infused into a smooth, creamy cocktail. That’s the Toasted Marshmallow Russian, a decadent twist on the classic White Russian that adds a rich layer of sweetness and a hit of smoky, campfire magic. Whether you’re cozying up during winter nights, hosting a themed party, or simply craving a dessert drink with flair, this cocktail wraps you in comfort. It combines vodka, coffee liqueur, cream, and toasted marshmallow flavoring, sometimes even literal toasted marshmallows on top! Think of it as s’mores in a martini glass. Perfect for dessert lovers, fans of creamy cocktails, or anyone who loves turning classic drinks into delightful surprises, this is a must-try creation.

Let’s explore why the Toasted Marshmallow Russian is quickly becoming a crowd favorite.

Why Is This Recipe So Popular?

The rise of dessert cocktails is no fluke—people are craving indulgent, creative drinks that bring both flavor and fun. The Toasted Marshmallow Russian checks all those boxes:

🍨 Dessert in a glass – It delivers the sweet satisfaction of a treat without needing a fork.
🔥 Campfire nostalgia – The flavor evokes memories of cozy nights by the fire.
🥃 Twist on a classic – A familiar cocktail reimagined with a unique flavor.
📸 Instagram-worthy – A toasted marshmallow garnish adds visual drama and flair.

The drink’s combination of indulgent ingredients, rich flavors, and visual appeal makes it a mainstay for winter menus, holiday parties, and late-night cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

🍫 Rich & creamy – A smooth blend of vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream
🔥 Toasty sweetness – Hints of toasted marshmallow take it over the top
🍸 Great for dessert hour – Perfect after dinner or as a holiday nightcap
🎉 Fun to garnish – Add toasted marshmallows, chocolate drizzle, or graham cracker rims
🍦 Customizable – Use flavored vodka, substitute dairy-free options, or serve frozen
💡 Easy to make – Just a few ingredients and a cocktail shaker

Ingredients:

These ingredients come together to form a powerhouse of flavor:

🥃 1½ oz vodka (plain or marshmallow flavored)
🥃 1 oz coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa)
🥛 1 oz heavy cream or half-and-half
🍬 1 tsp toasted marshmallow syrup (store-bought or homemade)
🔥 Mini marshmallows (for garnish, toasted)
🍫 (Optional) Chocolate syrup (for drizzle)
🍪 (Optional) Crushed graham crackers (for rimming glass)
❄️ Ice cubes

Preparation:

Step 1: Prepare your glass
If desired, rim your glass with crushed graham crackers. Rub the edge with cream or simple syrup, then dip into a plate of graham cracker crumbs. Set aside.

Step 2: Toast your marshmallows
Use a kitchen torch or carefully toast mini marshmallows over a gas burner or broiler. Set them aside on a skewer or cocktail pick.

Step 3: Mix the drink
In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine:

1½ oz vodka
1 oz coffee liqueur
1 oz heavy cream
1 tsp toasted marshmallow syrup

Step 4: Shake it up
Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds until the mixture is chilled and slightly frothy.

Step 5: Strain and garnish
Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice. Top with your toasted marshmallow garnish and drizzle with chocolate syrup if desired. For an extra wow, torch the top lightly before serving.

Variation:

🍦 Frozen Toasted Marshmallow Russian: Blend all ingredients with ice for a milkshake-like treat.
☕ Hot Toasted Marshmallow Russian: Serve warm by heating the cream and mixing with vodka and coffee liqueur in a mug—top with whipped cream and marshmallows.
🥥 Coconut Marshmallow Russian: Use coconut cream instead of dairy and coconut vodka for a tropical twist.
🍪 S’mores Russian: Add chocolate milk, a graham cracker rim, and a melted marshmallow foam on top.
💥 Spiked Marshmallow Mocha: Add 1 oz espresso and reduce coffee liqueur slightly for a caffeinated punch.

COOKING Note:

These indulgent dessert drinks are forgiving and flexible, but here are key tips:

Use fresh cream—avoid over-whipping or it may curdle.
Torch marshmallows just before serving for aroma and visual effect.
Adjust sweetness with syrup—marshmallow syrups vary in sugar levels.
Shake with lots of ice to ensure a frothy, well-chilled drink.

Serving Suggestions:

🎄 Perfect for holiday parties, Valentine’s night-ins, or winter get-togethers
🍰 Pair with brownies, chocolate mousse, or cheesecake
🎬 Serve with movie night snacks for an adult s’mores twist
🍩 Makes a great boozy brunch treat with sweet pastries
🛷 Cozy up next to a fire with one in hand—it’s comfort in a glass

Tips:

Use marshmallow vodka or infuse your own for added depth.
For homemade syrup, simmer sugar, water, and marshmallows until smooth.
Try vanilla bean cream or a splash of amaretto for added warmth.
Use a clear rocks glass to show off the creamy swirl.
Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a seasonal touch.

Prep Time:

5 minutes

Cooking Time:

0 minutes

Total Time:

5 minutes

Nutritional Information (Estimated per serving):

Calories: 230
Protein: 1g
Sodium: 20mg
Sugars: 15g
Carbohydrates: 17g
Fat: 8g
Alcohol Content: ~18–22%

FAQs

Q: Can I use flavored vodka?
A: Absolutely! Marshmallow, vanilla, whipped cream, or even chocolate vodka work beautifully.

Q: What’s the best syrup for this drink?
A: Torani Toasted Marshmallow or Monin makes excellent store-bought options, but you can melt marshmallows into simple syrup too.

Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Yes! Use coconut cream, almond milk creamer, or oat milk—though the texture will differ slightly.

Q: How do I toast marshmallows without a torch?
A: Carefully use your oven broiler or gas burner with tongs—watch them closely to prevent burning.

Q: Can I serve it hot?
A: Definitely! Heat the cream and syrup, then mix with the vodka and coffee liqueur for a comforting warm cocktail.

Conclusion:

The Toasted Marshmallow Russian brings all the charm of a fireside s’mores night into a smooth, boozy indulgence. It’s sweet, rich, and wonderfully nostalgic. With hints of smoky marshmallow, creamy liqueur, and the bold kiss of coffee and vodka, this cocktail satisfies both your sweet tooth and your cocktail cravings. Whether you’re hosting guests or treating yourself to a luxurious evening in, this drink delivers the coziness of a crackling fire and the decadence of a dessert in one beautiful glass.

Garnish with a torch-kissed marshmallow, sip slowly, and let the warmth wrap around you.