Clearly, I have an affinity for classic cocktails. There’s something special about recipes that have stood the test of time, let alone Prohibition. Well, here’s another vintage offering for you, this time of the dessert variety. For some reason, the Brandy Alexander never receives the love that it truly deserves. But after hearing Jeffrey Morgenthaler’s story, I was inspired to dust off the old bottle of crème de cacao and get to work. And trust me . . . I’m so happy that I did. This cocktail is delicately sweet and creamy, beyond simple, and instantly my new nightcap for the upcoming holiday season.
Photography shot with the Canon EOS Rebel SL1 digital SLR camera. Small in size, enormous in performance.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 oz cognac
- 1 oz dark crème de cacao
- 1 oz half and half
- freshly grated nutmeg (for garnish)
INSTRUCTIONS
- Add equal parts of cognac, dark crème de cacao, and half and half to your shaker.
- Add ice and shake for 30 seconds so the drink becomes cold and frothy.
- Double strain through a fine mesh strainer to remove any ice shards.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg.
NOTES
This is a very simple cocktail, and the quality of the ingredients you choose will be noticeable. If possible, try using a nice cognac over a bottom-shelf brandy. Also, if you prefer an even sweeter, creamier drink, try using cream instead of half and half.(images by HonestlyYUM)
I learned in N.J. To drink a. BrandyAlexander on the holidays from my boss who used to take us to lunch as appreciation. I didn’t know what to order so he ordered for me. When I tasted it, I loved it so I learned how to make it right. I only drink it on Christmas. It’s great.
I’ve been making this cocktail for that many years, I care to forget how long, along with grasshoppers. I much prefer them made with cream though.
I substitute Godiva’s Dark Chocolate Liqueur for the Crème de Cacao…… I think the quality is better.
What kind of brandy do you use?
now that’s somethin’ I could sit by the fire with and let me mind run wild. you guys need a 3D printer app or some futuristic somethin’ that let’s me just print these drinks out and try em! They always look SO good!!!
Delicious. You’re right: it’s so simple, yet so good. And it’s such a great showcase for the often derided Creme de Cacao. We’ll definitely be making big batches of Brandy Alexanders for the holidays.
I know, right!? Oooh, maybe a little BA punch?
Awesome, thanks for the recipe! I’m going to have to try this. Also, where did you get that amazing glass milk carton? It’s too cool.
In my happiest dreams, this cocktail was born!
Wow! That looks delicious!
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Beautiful! I’ll serve these for dessert at my holiday party. Thanks.
I would loooove one of these for dessert right now. Eye-catching photos, as always.
What time of crème de cacao do you use?
Creamy chocolaty goodness. Yes please!
Hit me with about 3 of these right now! haha!! Hey, it’s 5 o’clock somewhere!
Thanks for this great post and recipe. These look so simple and I am certain are equally delicious in taste. I will be serving these to my partner this coming holiday season. Please accept his thanks, in advance!
WHAT. This looks amazing. We have snow on the ground (quickly melting snow, but still) which I feel is the perfect excuse to have this tonight. Looks delicious!
This is the best boozy alternative to eggnog (I’m not a fan). Will have to stash this in my winter cocktails box! x
(In my best Homer Simpson voice, “Mmmmmm..creammmmy alcohollll…mmmmm”) There really is something special about the Brandy Alexander’s potent-yet-creamy-sweetness. A great dessert drink for sure! Yum!!
Todd, you have the most a-maz-ing set of bar ware around! The shot and drink glasses are beautiful. And I love your little glass milk carton creamer! Great post as always. Thanks!