Ingredients
To create Jack Skellington’s Haunted White Russian, gather the following:
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2 oz vodka – A neutral base spirit that allows the coffee liqueur to shine.
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1 oz coffee liqueur (such as Kahlúa) – Provides sweetness, depth, and the unmistakable coffee flavor.
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1 oz heavy cream (or half-and-half) – Creates the creamy top layer and smooth mouthfeel.
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½ oz vanilla syrup (optional) – Adds a dessert-like sweetness and aromatic warmth.
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Black food coloring (optional) – For a spooky, marbled effect.
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Ice – Essential for chilling and proper dilution.
Garnish Options:
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Whipped cream
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Chocolate skeleton decoration
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Black sugar rim
Instructions
Making this cocktail is a quick and enjoyable process. Here’s how to build it properly:
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Prepare the Glass
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If using a black sugar rim, lightly coat the rim of a rocks glass with simple syrup or water. Dip it into black sugar until fully coated. Set aside.
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Add Ice
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Fill the glass with fresh ice cubes. Larger cubes are ideal because they melt more slowly and prevent excess dilution.
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Pour the Spirits
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Add 2 oz vodka and 1 oz coffee liqueur over the ice. Stir gently to combine.
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Layer the Cream
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Slowly pour 1 oz heavy cream over the back of a spoon so it floats delicately on top. This creates the layered, ghostly effect.
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Add Spooky Swirls
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If desired, drop in a few drops of black food coloring. Stir slightly for a marbled, haunted appearance without fully blending the layers.
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Optional Sweetness
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For a sweeter finish, mix in ½ oz vanilla syrup before adding the cream.
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Garnish
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Add a swirl of whipped cream, top with a chocolate skeleton decoration, or keep it simple with just the black sugar rim.
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The finished drink is chillingly elegant, with swirls of cream resembling a haunted mist rising through the darkness.
Notes
The White Russian became a household name in the late 20th century, largely thanks to its popularity in the film The Big Lebowski. Traditionally made with vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream, it is both decadent and approachable. Jack Skellington’s Haunted White Russian pays homage to this classic while embracing Halloween’s visual drama. The addition of black swirls, thematic garnishes, and autumn-inspired variations make it more than just a cocktail—it becomes a seasonal ritual.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 280
- Sodium: 20 mg
- Protein: 1g