When the temperature drops, what better way to warm up than with a Brandy Alexander, the cocktail that’s a dessert in a glass, but with a kick?
It’s like a liquid hug, blending the warmth of brandy with the sweetness of crème de cacao, topped with cream. It’s not just a drink, it’s a cuddle session for your taste buds.
A Dash of History With a Twist of Fun
The Brandy Alexander made its grand debut back in 1922, possibly at a royal wedding in London, or perhaps it was the brainchild of a Russian tsar who loved a good party. Fast forward, and it caught the fancy of John Lennon of The Beatles, who probably enjoyed its dessert-like qualities.
Originally dubbed “Alexander Cocktail No. 2,” it’s the sassier sibling of a gin-based “Alexander” – because why not give your cocktail a first name? Brandy Alexander became the go-to alternative to dessert, perfect for those who like their sweets with a side of buzz.
For those dodging lactose, fear not – there’s always almond or oat cream to the rescue!
So, let’s raise our glasses to Brandy Alexander Day, a day to honor this creamy, dreamy concoction.
Celebrating with a Swirl and a Shake
Order Up a Brandy Alexander
Kick off the festivities by treating yourself to a Brandy Alexander. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned fan, let a skilled bartender whip up this creamy delight for you. It’s like a dessert that can make you a bit tipsy – what’s not to love?
DIY Brandy Alexander
Feeling adventurous? Why not try making a Brandy Alexander at home? It’s a perfect excuse to invite friends over and impress them with your cocktail skills.
Ingredients. –
- Brandy (Cognac preferred): 45 ml (1.5 oz)
- Dark Crème de Cacao: 30 ml (1 oz)
- Cream (heavy or light, dairy or non-dairy): 30 ml (1 oz)
- Grated Nutmeg (for garnish)
Instructions –
- Chill the Glass: Place your cocktail glass in the freezer to chill it.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine 45 ml (1.5 oz) of brandy, 30 ml (1 oz) of dark crème de cacao, and 30 ml (1 oz) of cream.
- Add Ice: Fill the shaker with ice.
- Shake Well: Shake the mixture vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to ensure it’s well mixed and chilled.
- Strain and Serve: Strain the cocktail into the chilled glass. The mixture should be smooth and frothy.
- Garnish: Grate a little nutmeg over the top of the drink for garnish.
Enjoy your Brandy Alexander! Remember, it’s a rich and indulgent drink, perfect for sipping slowly as a dessert cocktail.
Mix one shot of cognac with an ounce each of crème de cacao and cream. Shake it all up in a cocktail shaker with ice, strain into a chilled glass, and sprinkle some nutmeg on top. Voilà!
You’ve got yourself a creamy masterpiece.
So, here’s to Brandy Alexander Day – a day to enjoy a little sweetness, a little creaminess, and maybe a little tipsiness. Remember, it’s a drink that’s basically a dessert, but with a ‘don’t-drive-after-this’ label.
Enjoy responsibly and cheerfully!
Check out more drinkies’ days of celebration on our drinking days of the year calendar.
