Perfect Brandy Alexander Cocktail Recipe

The Brandy Alexander cocktail is a timeless classic, especially in 1970s New York’s Upper East Side. This info comes from a 2011 article by Gary “Gaz” Regan on Liquor.com. Gaz’s recipe balances brandy’s richness with a bit of sweet. It comes from a tradition known as the Alexander No. 2.

This classic uses French cognac, dark crème de cacao, and cream. It’s topped with grated nutmeg. Learn how to make a smooth, creamy, and truly indulgent brandy alexander cocktail.

Key Takeaways

• Published: December 14, 2022
• Calories per serving: 260 kcal
• Servings: 1 drink
• Author: John Kanell
• Average rating: 5 out of 5
• Key ingredients: brandy, crème de cacao, heavy cream
• Ideal for special occasions and dessert pairings

Introduction to the Brandy Alexander Cocktail

The Brandy Alexander cocktail is known for its creamy texture and hints of chocolate. This drink has won over many people as a favorite after-dinner treat. It includes brandy or cognac, making it stand out from other cocktails.

Want to learn to make a Brandy Alexander drink? It all starts with knowing the key ingredients. You need one ounce of brandy, one ounce of crème de cacao, and one ounce of heavy cream. These ingredients are essential for its smoothness and taste.

Ben is a blogger, recipe maker, and food photographer. He’s well-trusted for his detailed drink recipes. For the perfect Brandy Alexander, Ben suggests using equal amounts of its main parts. Shake them with ice for about 30 seconds. This makes the drink wonderfully cold. You can even add some nutmeg on top for a special aroma.

The Brandy Alexander is especially loved in the United States, mainly in a state called Wisconsin. People there use a lot of Korbel Brandy to make this cocktail. This shows how much they enjoy its chocolaty taste.

The Brandy Alexander milkshake version is for those who want something extra. It has more brandy and crème de cacao, made to serve two. This shake is very rich, with about 437 calories. It’s a real treat for dessert lovers.

At its heart, the Brandy Alexander cocktail is about a smooth and strong flavor. It’s a perfect choice for special moments, offering a dessert-like taste in a drink.

Ingredients for the Best Brandy Alexander

The best Brandy Alexander cocktail needs simple but essential parts. This classic drink is known for its fancy taste. It mixes cognac, crème de cacao chocolate liqueur, and cream for a velvety touch.

Core Ingredients

The Brandy Alexander cocktail usually uses these main ingredients:

• Brandy or Cognac: It uses about 1 1/2 ounces of brandy or cognac. Cognac, a French brandy, brings a more fancy taste but it’s pricier.
• Crème de Cacao: It adds a 1-ounce serving of this chocolate liqueur. It gives the drink depth and sweetness.
• Heavy Cream: A must-have, 1 ounce of heavy cream creates a rich, creamy flavor. This makes the Brandy Alexander delicious and smooth.

To change the taste, you can use equal parts of each ingredient (1:1:1 ratio). This makes the drink smoother. For a stronger brandy taste, use a 2:1:1 ratio. Choosing high-quality crème de cacao makes a big difference in taste.

Garnish Options

For garnish, fresh nutmeg is a must. It makes the Brandy Alexander smell and taste better. If nutmeg isn’t available, a bit of cinnamon works too. However, fresh nutmeg is the best choice for richer flavor.

Equipment You’ll Need

To make a Brandy Alexander cocktail just right, the right tools are key. They bring precision and joy to the process. It makes preparing and savoring this beloved drink more special.

Essential Cocktail Tools

Want to get your Brandy Alexander recipe spot on? You’ll need some key tools. A cocktail shaker mixes everything smoothly, keeping it cool. The jigger helps measure the brandy, crème de cacao, and cream precisely. For a perfect, elegant serve, use a cocktail strainer when pouring into a chilled coupe glass.

Optional Enhancements

Looking to take your Brandy Alexander to the next level? Try some added touches. Use a microplane or box grater for fresh nutmeg, a delightful, aromatic top. Chilling your glasses beforehand makes every taste extra refreshing and pleasant.

Step-by-Step Mixing Instructions

Creating a top-notch Brandy Alexander needs focus and care at every stage. This guide shows you how to craft this cocktail perfectly. Each part is key to achieving a great taste.

Preparing Your Ingredients

Start by getting the right items together. You’ll use equal amounts of cognac, crème de cacao, and cream. 1 part of each will do, measured with a jigger. Use a good cognac, such as Remy Martin, for the best drink. Don’t forget a cocktail shaker for mixing and cooling.

Mixing the Cocktail

Now, put your ingredients in the shaker with some ice. Shake until the outside of the shaker gets cold and frosty. This makes sure your Brandy Alexander is silky and cool.

Final Touches

Next, pour the mix into a chilled martini or “up” glass. To finish, sprinkle some nutmeg on top. This adds a wonderful smell to your Brandy Alexander. Serve right away and savor this classic drink full of taste and tradition.

Tips for the Perfect Brandy Alexander

Getting the Brandy Alexander drink right is all about the best ingredients. Choose a top-notch cognac for a tastier, smoother drink. And never use crushed ice in your mix. It makes the drink too watery.

The look of your Brandy Alexander is just as key. Use chilled glasses, so your drink stays cool. Add fresh nutmeg on top for a scent that’s as nice as the drink itself.

These pointers will lift your cocktail game. Your Brandy Alexanders will be shining examples of this favorite mix. So, follow these rules for a better drink and more fun.

Variations of the Brandy Alexander

The Brandy Alexander, a famous cocktail, began in the early 1900s. Its typical ingredients are brandy or cognac, dark crème de cacao, and heavy cream. As time passed, people made many changes and new versions. Let’s explore the usual Brandy Alexander and some cool, new ways to make it.

Classic Alexander

The first Alexander used gin, setting the original mix with equal parts gin, crème de cacao, and heavy cream. The change to Brandy Alexander made it famous. This version uses cognac or brandy, with brands like Rémy Martin, Courvoisier, and others often selected. This drink often comes with nutmeg on top and in a cold glass.

Modern Twists

Today, bartenders are creating many versions of the Brandy Alexander. For example, the Coffee Alexander mixes in coffee liqueur for a stronger taste. The Cherry Alexander uses cherry brandy to add a light, fruity flavor. There’s also the Brandy Alexander Royale, which includes Champagne to make it bubbly. You may come across others adding cinnamon or choosing half and half to make it lighter. These new versions keep the brandy alexander recipe alive while bringing something unique to it.

How to Make a Brandy Alexander Cocktail

To craft the perfect Brandy Alexander cocktail, start by choosing the right ingredients. This is key whether making it at home or for a gathering. Check out some homemade brandy alexander instructions for top-notch results.

For each drink, gather these ingredients:

• 2 oz / 60ml brandy or cognac
• 1 oz / 30ml creme de cacao
• 1 oz / 30ml double cream or heavy cream

Getting your Brandy Alexander ready is quick, taking only 5 minutes. This means you can mix up a delightful drink fast. Start by adding the brandy, creme de cacao, and cream into a shaker with ice. Shake it hard until the shaker’s outside is frosty. This ensures your cocktail is perfectly cold.

Adding a garnish is where you make your drink stand out. A sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg looks great and tastes even better. Always use fresh nutmeg for its richer scent and flavor compared to the pre-grated kind.

The final touch involves gently dusting the cocktail with nutmeg. This step not only makes your drink look inviting but also releases more flavor. Enjoy your Brandy Alexander knowing it was carefully crafted with the best ingredients.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make a great Brandy Alexander, you need to pay close attention to details. You must be precise and know about the common mistakes to avoid. This will help you craft this classic cocktail very well.

It’s important to get the mix of ingredients just right. You should use 1 part cognac, 1 part brown crème de cacao, and 1 part fresh cream. Doing this ensures your cocktail will be perfectly balanced. Changing this mix can make your drink too strong or too sweet.

Choosing high-quality ingredients is also key to a great drink. Opt for aged cognac and top-notch crème de cacao. Mix them with fresh, smooth cream. Using low-quality ingredients can make your Brandy Alexander less tasty. If you want to substitute, make sure your choices are also high-quality.

How you mix the cocktail is crucial. You should shake it well with lots of ice. This mixes the flavors and adds a nice froth. But, don’t shake it too much or with crushed ice. This can make your drink watery and ruin its texture. The right amount of shake will make a cool, smooth drink.

Don’t forget about the garnish. Grated nutmeg on top adds a pleasant smell and taste. Using pre-ground nutmeg is not as good. Choosing the right garnish is a small touch that makes a big difference.

The way you serve the drink counts too. Always use a chilled glass. It keeps the cocktail at the right temperature. This makes your Brandy Alexander taste better.

If you want a perfect Brandy Alexander, remember these steps. Get your measurements right, pick quality ingredients, shake well, add a good garnish, and use a well-chilled glass. Following these brandy alexander mixing tips ensures you make the best cocktail every time.

Brandy Alexander Cocktail History

The Brandy Alexander cocktail became famous when it was featured in The Savoy Cocktail Book in 1930. This happened after the gin-based Alexander cocktail was changed to use brandy or cognac.

Origins and Popularity

Some say it was first made by Troy Alexander at New York’s Hotel Rector in the early 20th century. The change from gin to brandy made it a richer, more sophisticated drink. The Brandy Alexander grew in popularity after the U.S. Prohibition.

Notable Mentions in Pop Culture

It didn’t just stay in bars. The Brandy Alexander became part of movies, books, and admired by famous people. Its rich and creamy taste is a sign of luxury, attracting people who want something elegant.

Many versions of the Brandy Alexander exist. But, the mix of brandy, crème de cacao, and cream is what makes it special. People love it in its classic form and in new, creative ways.

Occasions to Serve a Brandy Alexander

The Brandy Alexander is a top pick for many celebrations. It adds a rich and creamy touch to any event. With its mix of brandy, crème de cacao, and cream, topped with nutmeg, it’s a favorite among guests.

Holiday Celebrations

A Brandy Alexander brings a festive feel with its smooth and chocolatey flavors. It’s ideal for holiday parties, bringing a sense of elegance and warmth. It fits perfectly at events like Christmas, Thanksgiving, or New Year’s, encouraging cheer and unity.

Special Events

For special events like birthdays or elegant parties, a Brandy Alexander is a must. Its rich blend and deep flavor add a touch of sophistication. Many choose it as a fancy after-dinner drink at weddings, where the creamy mix leaves a joyful mark.

So, whether at holidays or key life events, the Brandy Alexander is a standout choice for celebrations.

Pairing Suggestions

The Brandy Alexander cocktail offers a rich mix of cognac, crème de cacao, and cream. This mix creates a perfect base for pairing with different foods. Whether you’re adding a sweet finish to your meal or choosing savory bites, knowing their flavors makes pairing up easier.

Complementary Desserts

When it comes to brandy alexander dessert pairings, think of desserts that are as creamy and chocolaty as the cocktail. Here are some great ideas:

• Rich chocolate cakes that enhance the deep chocolate flavor of crème de cacao.
• Creamy cheesecakes, which blend well with the cocktail’s creamy nature.
• A variety of truffles to give a luxurious yet indulgent touch.
• Chocolate mousse, to make your dessert experience even richer.

Cheese and Savory Pairings

For complementary savory options, pairing food with the Brandy Alexander can offer a unique flavor mix:

• Choose from aged cheeses like Gouda, bringing a rich, nutty taste to the sweet cocktail.
• Blue cheese offers a powerful but fitting contrast to the cocktail’s smoothness.
• Enjoy almond-stuffed olives or smoked almonds to add a contrasting texture and taste.
• Opt for smoked salmon on rye crackers for a refined, savory touch.

With these specially picked brandy alexander dessert pairings and complementary savory options, your gathering will feel upscale and polished with every sip and bite.

Making Brandy Alexander at Home vs. Bars

Choosing where to enjoy a Brandy Alexander, either at a bar or at home, is a fun decision. Each place offers something special, like the cozy vibe at home or the social hubbub at bars.

Mixing a Brandy Alexander at home lets you play with the recipe. You can pick your favorite brandy, crème de cacao, and cream, aiming for the best flavor. Using affordable ingredients, like good cognac and crème de cacao, doesn’t break the bank. This is great for those watching their wallet.

But, at a bar, you get a drink made by a skilled bartender. They use high-end spirits to make a top-quality Brandy Alexander. The lively atmosphere of a bar is perfect for enjoying drinks with friends. It’s a social experience. And the way the cocktail is presented is super fancy, which adds to the fun.

Looking closely, both making a Brandy Alexander at home and ordering it at a bar have their pluses:

In the end, it’s about what you value more. Is it about making your Brandy Alexander just the way you love at home, or is it the bar’s expertise and the fun of drinking out? Both places guarantee you have a great time with this classic cocktail.

Conclusion

The Brandy Alexander cocktail mixes tradition with modern flair. It has a long history, dating back to drinks like the gin-based Alexander in 1915. Later in 1922, Harry’s ABC highlighted the Brandy Alexander. This cocktail is known for its creamy texture and mix of cognac, crème de cacao, and cream.

The Brandy Alexander has changed over the years. You can try different versions, like using different types of spirits or changing the base from brandy to vodka. It shows how a classic can stay popular by adapting. Varieties of crème de cacao also let you pick a taste that suits you.

Today, the Brandy Alexander is still a hit at parties, dinners, or fancy bars. Mixing it with champagne turns it into a drink for special occasions. Trying new twists, with inspiration from books like Burke’s Complete Cocktail & Tastybite Recipes, can help you enjoy it even more.

To make the best Brandy Alexander, know its history but be ready to try new things. This cocktail is loved for its taste, bringing a feeling of luxury with every glass. It’s great for both quiet nights at home and lively nights out.