The Alexander Cocktail is a mixed drink, commonly referred to today as a 'Brandy Alexander'. The modern drink uses Cognac, White (or Brown) Creme de Cocoa and Half-and-Half. If you don't have half-and-half, make it yourself by combining some full cream milk and cream. The Creme de Cocoa may be white or brown, all that changes is the colour of your drink.
My Ingredients:
30ml (or 1 ounce) cognac
30ml brown (or white) creme de cacao
30ml to 60 ml (1 to 2 ounces) light cream (or half-and-half)
My Method:
Shake all ingredients with ice and strain contents into a cocktail glass. Sprinkle nutmeg (and optional cinnamon) on top and serve.
The recipe calls for nutmeg to be sprinkled on top, but I like to add a little sweetness and spice to my Alexander cocktails, so I add cinnamon.
However, did you know you can make this drink with Gin? The original recipe had a variation containing gin. When I make it with gin, I like to use White Creme de Cocoa to give the drink a lighter colour. Difford's Guide has a recipe for a Gin Alexander here.
My Ingredients:
30ml (or 1 ounce) gin
30ml white creme de cacao
30ml to 60 ml (1 to 2 ounces) light cream (or half-and-half)
My Method:
Shake all ingredients with ice and strain contents into a cocktail glass. Sprinkle nutmeg (and optional cinnamon) on top and serve.
Again, my preference is to add some cinnamon to the nutmeg sprinkled on top.
Why not give it a go and try this cocktail (either with Brandy, Cognac or Gin) with your next cigar!