Brandy Alexander is a creamy and rich gem in the world of cocktails. Combining the depth of cognac with the sweetness of cocoa liqueur and the silkiness of cream. This drink can almost be enjoyed as a dessert, while exuding an elegant, profound character. The Brandy Alexander is for those who love sophisticated flavors and want to add a touch of nostalgia to the modern cocktail experience. The drink has become a favorite at wedding receptions and luxury balls.
Story
The history of the Brandy Alexander is full of charm and nostalgia. The story of the Brandy Alexander begins in the 1920s, when Troy Alexander, a bartender at the Hotel Rector in New York, created a white cocktail for a dinner event promoting Phoebe Snow—a fictional character from an advertising campaign by the Delaware, Lackawanna and Western Railroad. The original version, known simply as the “Alexander,” used gin.But bartenders later swapped it for cognac, giving rise to the Brandy Alexander. One of the most well-known anecdotes claims that the cocktail made an appearance at the royal wedding in London in 1922, which helped skyrocket its popularity. The Brandy Alexander became an iconic drink in the 1970s, especially for those who craved a sweet, creamy experience.
Ingredients
1 ½ oz (45 ml) cognac
1 oz (30 ml) white cocoa liqueur (Crème de Cacao)
1 oz (30 ml) cream
How to Make a Brandy Alexander Cocktail
Add the cognac, cocoa liqueur, and cream to a shaker filled with ice cubes. Shake thoroughly until well chilled, then strain into a chilled cocktail glass to highlight the drink’s rich texture and flavor.
Serving and Garnish
The Brandy Alexander is traditionally served in a coupe glass. Grate fresh nutmeg over the top to enhance the layered notes of the cognac and cocoa liqueur.
Calorie Content
A single Brandy Alexander cocktail contains approximately 260 calories, mainly due to the high sugar and alcohol content from the cream and liqueurs.