There’s something undeniably cozy about a Brandy Alexander. It’s creamy, smooth, and just the right amount of indulgent-like dessert in a glass. With a rich blend of brandy, dark chocolate liqueur, and cream, this classic cocktail is a longtime favorite of mine, especially when I want something sweet and a little nostalgic. I’ve made this drink countless times, and I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way that I’ll share with you here.
Brandy Alexander
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1
Glassware: Coupe glass or martini glass
Ingredients
– 1 oz (30 ml) brandy
– 1 oz (30 ml) dark crème de cacao
– 1 oz (30 ml) heavy cream
– Ground nutmeg, for garnish
– Ice
Method
- Chill your glass in the freezer or by filling it with ice water while you mix the drink.
- In a cocktail shaker, add a handful of ice, brandy, dark crème de cacao, and heavy cream.
- Shake it well-about 15 seconds-until the outside of the shaker feels nice and cold. You want everything well mixed and frothy.
- Strain into your chilled glass.
- Top with a light sprinkle of ground nutmeg.
Tips
– Fresh cream matters: Always use fresh heavy cream for the smoothest texture. If your cream is too old, it can curdle or taste off.
– Chill your glass: A cold glass helps keep the cocktail cool and creamy longer.
– Nutmeg tip: If you can, grate whole nutmeg right over the top. The aroma is amazing and adds that little extra something.
Make-Ahead Notes
You can mix the brandy and crème de cacao ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just add cream and shake when you’re ready to serve. Avoid mixing in the cream early-it can separate or lose its freshness.
Ingredient Swaps
– Brandy: Try cognac for a smoother, more elegant flavor.
– Cream: Use half-and-half for a lighter version, or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
– Crème de cacao: White crème de cacao gives a milder chocolate flavor and changes the look.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
– Don’t under-shake-this cocktail needs a good shake to get that creamy, slightly frothy texture.
– Avoid overfilling your shaker. If you’re making more than one, shake in batches to keep everything cold and well blended.
– Don’t skip the garnish. Nutmeg really ties the drink together-it’s not just for looks!
What It Tastes Like
Think of a grown-up chocolate milkshake with a little kick. The brandy brings warmth, the crème de cacao adds rich chocolate notes, and the cream smooths everything out. That sprinkle of nutmeg on top? It adds just the right touch of spice.
Serving Suggestions
This drink shines as an after-dinner treat or when you’re curled up on the couch. It pairs beautifully with:
– Chocolate desserts: Brownies, truffles, or flourless chocolate cake
– Spiced nuts: Especially those with cinnamon or cayenne
– Creamy cheeses: Brie, Camembert, or mascarpone with fruit preserves
I often bring this one out during the holidays or after a cozy dinner party. It’s like a little celebration in a glass.
Storage
This cocktail doesn’t store well once mixed with cream, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh. If you’ve pre-mixed the alcohol components, keep them in a sealed bottle in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Variations to Try
Coffee Alexander
– Replace crème de cacao with coffee liqueur (like KahlĂşa) for a mocha twist.
Banana Alexander
– Use banana liqueur in place of crème de cacao for a creamy, tropical version.
Cherry Alexander
– Swap brandy for cherry brandy to add a fruity, slightly tart edge.
Non-Alcoholic Version
– Mix 1 oz (30 ml) chocolate syrup, 1 oz (30 ml) cream, and a splash of milk. Shake with ice and top with nutmeg or cinnamon.
FAQs
What’s the best brandy to use?
Go for a good-quality VS or VSOP brandy-nothing too fancy, but something smooth. You want the flavor to shine through the cream.
Can I make it vegan?
Absolutely. Use coconut cream or oat-based cream for a dairy-free version. Just make sure it’s unsweetened and full-fat for the right texture.
How can I make it less sweet?
Use a bit less crème de cacao or choose a drier brandy to balance the sweetness.
What’s the difference between a Brandy Alexander and an Alexander?
The original Alexander used gin instead of brandy. It’s a bit more botanical, while the Brandy Alexander is richer and cozier.
Any ideas for extra garnish?
Try chocolate shavings, a cinnamon stick, or even a twist of orange peel for a little citrus lift.
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This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights when I want something indulgent but easy to mix. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or just treating yourself, the Brandy Alexander is a timeless classic that always delivers.
