Recipes

Brandy Alexander

The Brandy Alexander is the epitome of a classic dessert cocktail. It's a smooth, rich, and creamy blend of brandy, crème de cacao, and cream that has been enjoyed for over a century. A dusting of nutmeg on top provides the perfect aromatic finish.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz Brandy or Cognac
  • 1 oz Dark Crème de Cacao
  • 1 oz Heavy Cream
  • Garnish: Freshly Grated Nutmeg

Instructions

  1. Chill Your Glass: Place a coupe or martini glass in the freezer for a few minutes to get it ice-cold.
  2. Combine Ingredients: Add the brandy, dark crème de cacao, and heavy cream into a cocktail shaker.
  3. Shake with Ice: Fill the shaker with ice, seal it, and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds. The shaker should become frosty on the outside.
  4. Double Strain: Discard the ice from your chilled glass and double-strain the cocktail into it. This removes any small ice chips and ensures a perfectly smooth texture.
  5. Garnish: Grate a small amount of fresh nutmeg over the top of the drink's foam and serve immediately.

Pro Tips for Perfection

Freshly Grated Nutmeg is Essential: Do not skip this step. The aroma of freshly grated nutmeg is the signature of a perfect Brandy Alexander. Pre-ground nutmeg lacks the vibrant, aromatic oils and will not provide the same experience.

Choose Your Spirit Wisely: While any good brandy works, using a quality VSOP Cognac will elevate the drink with more complex notes of fruit and spice. For the chocolate element, dark crème de cacao provides a richer flavor and traditional color, while white crème de cacao results in a paler drink.

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