Brandy Alexander Cocktail Recipe

The brandy alexander comes together with just three main ingredients: brandy, crème de cacao, and cream. It’s a simple mix but always feels classic. The recipe actually started out with gin back in the early 1900s, but over time, bartenders switched to brandy for a warmer, richer flavor. That swap is what really gave this cocktail its signature style.

If you enjoy drinks that are creamy, a little chocolatey, and easy to make, you’ll want to give this one a go. Whether you’re just starting to mix cocktails or you want to add a classic to your list, the brandy alexander never disappoints.

What's in a Brandy Alexander Cocktail

You only need three main ingredients, and each one brings something special to the mix.

Ingredients and Substitutions

The Brandy Alexander uses three main parts. Each adds balance and gives the drink its milkshake-like charm.

• Brandy - For the best flavor, use a VS or VSOP brandy. Cognac will give you a deeper and smoother taste, while American or California brandy is usually lighter and a little fruity. If you try cognac, you’ll notice more oak and spice. If you want something a bit lighter, go for apple brandy. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, you can use grape juice or a zero-proof brandy.
• Crème de cacao - Dark crème de cacao gives the drink a strong chocolate flavor and a richer color. The light version is a bit sweeter and makes the cocktail look lighter, too. If you can’t find crème de cacao, any chocolate liqueur will work, but your drink might taste a little sweeter. It’s best to skip chocolate syrups since they don’t have the same depth of flavor.
• Heavy cream - Heavy cream is what gives the Brandy Alexander its thick, smooth texture. If you use half-and-half, your drink will be lighter and lose some of that richness. Plant-based cream can work if you need a dairy-free option, but some brands may not blend as well. Milk isn’t the best choice because it makes the drink too thin.

What You’ll Need

You don’t need any fancy bar gear to make this drink. Just grab these:

• Cocktail shaker
• Jigger
• Strainer
• Microplane or nutmeg grater
• Cocktail or coupe glass

If you want a full set of bar tools that looks sharp and works well, check out this deluxe stainless steel cocktail tool kit. It’s sturdy, classy, and covers everything you need to shake up cocktails like this.

How to Make a Brandy Alexander

First, grab your ingredients and measure everything out. Getting the right balance really does make a difference here, so it helps to be a little exact with your pours.

Once you’ve measured everything, add it all to your shaker with a scoop of ice. Shake it hard and fast until the outside feels nice and cold. That’s how you get that smooth, creamy texture.

Now, strain your drink into a chilled glass. If you use a fine mesh strainer, you’ll catch any tiny ice bits and end up with a silky, clean pour.

To finish, grate a little fresh nutmeg over the top. That small sprinkle adds a warm aroma and just the right hint of spice.

That’s it. Shake to blend, strain to smooth things out, and don’t skip the nutmeg because it really ties the whole drink together. For the full recipe with exact measurements, just check out the recipe card below.

Tips and Tricks to Make the Best Brandy Alexander Cocktail

• Play with the ratio. If you like a stronger drink, bump up the brandy to 1½ oz. Want it sweeter? Keep the amounts of brandy, crème de cacao, and cream equal. For a richer, creamier body, add a little extra cream.
• Choose quality brands. If you can, go for Hennessy, Remy Martin, or Hine for the brandy. For crème de cacao, Tempus Fugit is a solid pick. Cheaper liqueurs can leave the drink tasting flat.
• Use fresh nutmeg. Grate it right over your cocktail just before serving. A tiny pinch adds way more aroma and flavor than the pre-ground stuff from a jar.

Brandy Alexander Recipe Variations

• The classic Brandy Alexander uses equal parts brandy, crème de cacao, and cream with a sprinkle of nutmeg on top. You can tweak the recipe to match your own taste. If you want a bolder drink, just add a little extra brandy. For a creamier, softer sip, pour in more cream.
• If you like to experiment with your cocktails, try swapping out the spirit. Use gin instead of brandy and you’ll have the original Alexander. You can also use Irish cream instead of heavy cream for a sweeter, smoother drink that’s a bit less strong.
• Want a plant-based version? Just use coconut cream, oat milk, or almond milk instead of regular cream. You’ll still get that creamy, dessert-like vibe, but without the dairy.
• If you’re craving something like a milkshake, make it frozen. Blend brandy, crème de cacao, and a scoop of ice cream until smooth. Pour it into a chilled glass and finish with a bit of nutmeg for a fun twist.
• You can also change up the garnish. Try shaved chocolate, a dusting of cocoa powder, or even a little cinnamon on top instead of nutmeg. Small touches like these bring out new flavors and give your drink an extra bit of flair.

More Cocktails to Try

If you’re in the mood for another creamy classic, give the White Russian a try.

Love chocolate? You’ll want to check out the Chocolate Martini for a sweet, decadent twist.

If you like a coffee kick in your drinks, the Tequila Espresso Martini is always a crowd-pleaser.

Craving more dessert-style cocktails? The Mudslide and Colorado Bulldog are both fun, indulgent picks.

Want something cozy and chocolatey? Try the Kahlua Hot Chocolate for a boozy twist on your favorite winter treat.

Or, explore even more ways to use coffee liqueur with this list of the best Kahlua cocktails.

If you want to branch out with more brandy drinks, check out the Harvard Cocktail or the Jack Rose.

Frequently Asked Questions