Paul Kushner
The Brandy Alexander is a timeless dessert cocktail that exudes elegance and indulgence. With its smooth blend of brandy, dark crème de cacao, and heavy cream, this drink is rich, velvety, and perfect for after-dinner sipping. The dusting of freshly grated nutmeg on top adds a warm, aromatic finish that complements the creamy chocolate notes beautifully. Loved since the early 20th century, it remains a classic for those who enjoy their cocktails decadent and luxurious.
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Tasting Notes
The Brandy Alexander is a smooth, dessert-style cocktail with rich, layered flavors. Brandy brings warmth and subtle oak notes, while dark crème de cacao adds deep chocolate sweetness. Heavy cream gives the drink a silky texture, making it both comforting and indulgent without being overly heavy. The grated nutmeg garnish provides a fragrant, lightly spiced aroma that complements the chocolate and brandy beautifully. Each sip is balanced, with the sweetness mellowed by the cream and the depth of the brandy. This classic cocktail has a timeless appeal, offering a luxurious treat for those who enjoy creamy, flavorful after-dinner drinks.
Equipment and Glassware
To make a Brandy Alexander, you’ll need a cocktail shaker to combine and chill the ingredients thoroughly. A jigger ensures precise measurement for a balanced flavor profile. A fine mesh strainer will help achieve a smooth pour into the glass. Keep a small grater or microplane handy for freshly grating nutmeg over the finished drink. Using a chilled coupe or martini glass is ideal for presentation and helps maintain the cocktail’s temperature. Ice is essential for shaking and chilling, so use fresh, clean cubes to avoid unwanted flavors. With just a few tools, you can prepare this classic with ease.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 oz Brandy
- 1 oz Dark crème de cacao
- 1 oz Heavy cream
- Grated nutmeg (for garnish)
Instructions
- Fill a shaker with ice cubes.
- Pour the brandy, dark crème de cacao, and heavy cream into the shaker.
- Shake well until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of grated nutmeg.
Pro Tips
- Use freshly grated nutmeg for the best aroma.
- Chill your glass before pouring for longer-lasting temperature.
- Shake vigorously to fully blend cream and spirits.
- Choose a well-aged brandy for a deeper flavor profile.
- Use premium dark crème de cacao for a richer chocolate note.
- Avoid over-pouring cream to keep the drink balanced.
- Serve immediately to preserve freshness and aroma.
When to Serve
The Brandy Alexander is best enjoyed as an after-dinner cocktail, pairing perfectly with desserts like chocolate cake, tiramisu, or cheesecake. It’s also an excellent choice for holiday gatherings, offering a festive mix of warming brandy and sweet chocolate. Its creamy texture and smooth finish make it a great option for special occasions, romantic dinners, or as a celebratory toast. Because it’s rich yet balanced, it can serve as both a dessert substitute and a complement to sweet treats. This cocktail’s comforting profile makes it well-suited for cooler months or any evening when you want a luxurious, relaxing drink.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
Brandy
- Hennessy VS
- Rémy Martin VSOP
- Courvoisier VS
- E&J VSOP
- Torres 10
Dark Crème de Cacao
- Tempus Fugit Crème de Cacao à la Vanille
- Giffard Crème de Cacao
- DeKuyper Dark Crème de Cacao
- Marie Brizard Crème de Cacao Brown
- Bols Crème de Cacao Brown
Similar Cocktails
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 oz brandy
- 1 oz dark crème de cacao
- 1 oz heavy cream
- Grated nutmeg for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice
- Add the brandy, dark crème de cacao, and heavy cream to the shaker.
- Shake vigorously for about 10 seconds.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass or coupe glass.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of grated nutmeg.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use freshly grated nutmeg for a more aromatic garnish.
- Chill the glass in the freezer for at least 10 minutes before serving to keep the cocktail extra cold.
- For an even creamier texture, shake for a few seconds longer than usual.
