Brandy Alexander
Cognac, crème de cacao and cream. A smooth, chocolatey after-dinner classic.
Shaken · Coupe · Medium · about 3 minutes · about 17% ABV
Ingredients
- 30 ml Cognac
- 30 ml Crème de cacao
- 30 ml Thickened cream
- Grated nutmeg (garnish)
Method
- Chill the glass
- Pour 30 ml cognac into the shaker
- Pour 30 ml crème de cacao into the shaker
- Pour 30 ml thickened cream into the shaker
- Add ice
- Shake hard
- Strain
- Garnish
About the Brandy Alexander
The Alexander first appeared around 1915 as a gin drink, possibly created at Rector's in New York. The brandy version became more popular from the 1930s. John Lennon is said to have loved it, calling it a "milkshake".
The cream family. Cream drinks became fashionable in the early 1900s, when the Alexander and its cousins appeared. They had a second golden age in the 1970s and 1980s with the Grasshopper, the White Russian and the Mudslide. Serve them after dinner, in place of dessert.
Brandy Alexander FAQ
What's in a Brandy Alexander?
30 ml cognac, 30 ml crème de cacao, 30 ml thickened cream, garnished with grated nutmeg.
How strong is a Brandy Alexander?
About 17% ABV once mixed with ice, which is 1.5 Australian standard drinks per serve. That is stronger than a glass of wine.
Should I shake or stir a Brandy Alexander?
Shake it. citrus, juice and cream need shaking to mix properly and gain a light, lively texture.
What glass do you serve a Brandy Alexander in?
A coupe, about 180 ml. Chill the glass first and serve without ice. No coupe? Use a martini glass or small wine glass.
