Black Russian
A two-ingredient after-dinner sipper of vodka and coffee liqueur built right over ice. Its fixed spirit-to-liqueur ratio and zero-juice profile make it trivially scalable, with dilution coming only from the rocks.
Ingredients
| Vodka | 2 oz |
| Coffee liqueur | 1 oz |
| Total volume | 3.00 oz |
Tip: change “Make” to scale the recipe, or switch units for the metric world.
How to make it
Built in the glass · Easy · about 2 minutes
- 1
Add the vodka and coffee liqueur to the rocks glass and fill with ice.
- 2
Stir gently to combine.
- 3
Serve immediately.
Tools you'll need
Making a batch for a party?
Here's a pre-calculated batch of 12 with 0% dilution water built in. Scale to any number with the batch calculator →
| Ingredient | × 12 | Bottles |
|---|---|---|
| Vodka | 24.0 oz | 1 |
| Coffee liqueur | 12.0 oz | 1 |
BatchPour tools produce estimates for planning purposes only. Actual dilution, ABV, and ingredient yields vary by technique, ice temperature, and produce. Always taste and adjust. Drink responsibly.
If you like the Black Russian, try…
Cosmopolitan
vodkaVodka, cranberry, lime, and triple sec — elegant and easy to batch.
Moscow Mule
vodkaVodka, ginger beer, and lime — simple and refreshing.
Espresso Martini
vodkaVodka, Kahlúa, espresso — the after-dinner crowd-pleaser.
Vodka Martini
vodkaThe clean, neutral vodka take on the Martini; smooth and spirit-forward, it scales reliably for batching when you nail the water dilution.
Black Russian FAQ
What's in a Black Russian?
A classic Black Russian is made with vodka, coffee liqueur. It's built in the glass and served in a rocks glass.
What is the ABV of a Black Russian?
A classic Black Russian is approximately 33.3% ABV — about 1.67 US standard drinks per serving once you account for dilution.
Should I shake or stir a Black Russian?
Neither — the Black Russian is built right in the glass, so no shaker or mixing glass is needed.
How do I batch Black Russians for a party?
Scale every ingredient by your guest count, then add no dilution water (built drinks dilute in the glass). The BatchPour batch calculator does the math for any number.