Cratox AI
Reviewed by Cratox Nutrition Team · Updated February 4, 2026
Black Russian - nutritional information

Black Russian

🔥 279 Calories
21.2g Carbohydrates
🥑 0.1g Fat

At a glance

A fast summary built from the current nutrition profile per 100g.

Category
Alcohol
Black Russian
Energy density
Dense
279 kcal per 100g
Macro energy profile
Carb-led
0% Protein · 99% Carbohydrates · 1% Fat
Glycemic profile
No GI data
No GI data
Notable signals
Low in fatLow in sodiumUSDA data

Nutritional Information

279
kcal/100g
Protein
0g
Carbohydrates
21.2g
Fat
0.1g

About Black Russian

The Black Russian is a classic cocktail made with vodka and coffee liqueur, originating in the 1940s and gaining popularity across various bars and social settings. Its unique blend of flavors offers a rich, robust experience, making it a favored choice for those who enjoy coffee-flavored spirits. The drink is often served over ice or blended into various dessert dishes, showcasing its versatility in both beverage and culinary applications. Nutritionally, the Black Russian is relatively low in calories, containing approximately 279 calories per 100 grams. While it has minimal protein and fat content, it does provide carbohydrates primarily from the coffee liqueur. This cocktail can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet, but it's essential to be mindful of its alcohol content and the potential for added sugars in commercial liqueurs. It is commonly consumed as a dessert drink or mixed with other ingredients in creative cocktails.

Health Benefits

Rich in antioxidants from coffee liqueur, which may help combat oxidative stress.
Low in fat and cholesterol, making it a heart-healthy option when consumed in moderation.
May enhance mood and provide a sense of relaxation due to the caffeine content.
Can be a social beverage, promoting gatherings and interactions among friends.
Contains minimal sugar when made with unsweetened coffee liqueur, allowing for reduced calorie intake.
Coffee liqueur can improve cognitive function due to its caffeine content.
May provide a unique flavor profile that enhances culinary creations when used in desserts.
The combination of vodka and coffee liqueur can stimulate appetite and complement rich foods.
Encourages creativity in mixology, allowing for various adaptations and flavors.
When enjoyed responsibly, can be part of a balanced lifestyle.

Recommended Food Pairings

🥗
Chocolate desserts - The bitterness of coffee liqueur complements the sweetness of chocolate.
🥗
Vanilla ice cream - A scoop of vanilla ice cream can balance the robust flavors of the drink.
🥗
Cheese platters - Soft cheeses can enhance the cocktail's rich flavor profile.
🥗
Berries - Fresh berries add a refreshing contrast to the drink's sweetness.
🥗
Grilled meats - The cocktail can serve as a bold pairing with savory grilled dishes.

How to Consume

Serving size
Recommended serving is 100g, typically one cocktail.
Frequency
Enjoy in moderation, 1-2 times per week.
  • Serve chilled over ice for optimal flavor.
  • Garnish with coffee beans or a twist of orange for added aroma.
  • Experiment with different coffee liqueurs to find your preferred taste.
  • Incorporate into desserts like tiramisu for a unique flavor boost.
  • Pair with complementary flavors like dark chocolate or vanilla.

Selection & Storage

How to choose:

  • Select high-quality vodka and coffee liqueur for the best flavor.
  • Look for liqueurs with natural ingredients for fewer additives.
  • Check for clarity and color; a good coffee liqueur should be deep brown.
  • Ensure bottles are sealed and undamaged before purchasing.
Storage
Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight, ideally at room temperature.
Shelf life
Best consumed within 1 year of opening; refrigerate after opening for up to 6 months.

Warnings & Contraindications

  • ⚠️Individuals with alcohol intolerance should avoid consumption.
  • ⚠️Pregnant women should refrain from alcoholic beverages.
  • ⚠️People with certain medical conditions or medications that interact with alcohol should consult a doctor.
  • ⚠️Those with caffeine sensitivity should limit intake due to coffee liqueur.
  • ⚠️Excessive consumption can lead to negative health effects, including liver damage.
  • ⚠️Always drink responsibly and never consume before operating machinery or driving.
  • ⚠️Be cautious of added sugars in commercial coffee liqueurs; opt for low-sugar options when possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many calories does Black Russian have?

A Black Russian contains approximately 279 calories per 100 grams, primarily from the vodka and coffee liqueur used in its preparation.

Is Black Russian healthy?

When consumed in moderation, the Black Russian can be considered a relatively low-calorie cocktail. It contains minimal fats and cholesterol, but the healthiness depends largely on the ingredients used, such as the sugar content in the coffee liqueur.

How should Black Russian be stored?

Store the Black Russian in a cool, dark location. If prepared, it should be consumed within a few days. If you have leftover liqueur, keep it sealed and refrigerated for the best quality.

What are the benefits of eating Black Russian?

The Black Russian offers several benefits when enjoyed responsibly, including mood enhancement from caffeine and potential social benefits from sharing with friends. It also contains antioxidants that can help combat oxidative stress.

How much Black Russian can I eat per day?

It is recommended to consume Black Russian cocktails in moderation, typically no more than 1-2 servings per week, depending on individual health factors and alcohol tolerance.

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