Brandy Alexander

What is the difference between Brandy Alexander and Alexander?

The primary difference between a Brandy Alexander and an Alexander lies in the choice of spirit. The Alexander was made with gin as its base, providing a botanical flavor profile. On the other hand, Brandy Alexander opts for cognac, which, offers a rich and deep profile. Historically, the Brandy Alexander was born as a natural variation of the Alexander and with time, became the most popular one. 

Brandy Alexander with Kahlua or Baileys

Choosing between Kahlúa and Baileys can significantly influence the drink’s flavor profile when making a Brandy Alexander. Kahlúa, a coffee liqueur from Mexico, infuses the cocktail with rich coffee notes and a hint of sweetness. It’s a favorite for those who appreciate their drinks’ deep, roasted flavor. On the other hand, Baileys, an Irish cream liqueur, introduces a creamy texture combined with hints of chocolate, vanilla, and whiskey. It adds a velvety smoothness to the Brandy Alexander. While both are excellent choices, Kahlúa, especially the well-regarded “Especial” variant, would be my top pick if you’re aiming for a classic taste with a coffee twist.

Brandy Alexander with Ice cream

Instead of using fresh cream as in the classic recipe, this version incorporates ice, typically vanilla, to achieve a thicker, creamier consistency. Adding ice cream transforms the drink into a dessert-like beverage, making it more decadent and indulgent. The core ingredients of brandy and crème de cacao remain, ensuring the signature flavors of the Brandy Alexander are retained. At the same time, the ice cream adds an extra layer of creamy sweetness.

Variations

Fancy trying out some new flavors? We’ve got a lineup of our favorite variations:

• Coffee Alexander: Melds coffee liqueur with the traditional creamy base, offering an energizing twist. The robust flavor of coffee complements the sweetness, making it an ideal after-dinner choice for a caffeine boost.
• Alexander’s Sister: Refreshes with its mint liqueur addition, creating a cool, invigorating experience. The mint blends smoothly with the creamy sweetness, reminiscent of a dessert in a glass.
• Rum Alexander: Introduces rum for a tropical and slightly spicy twist. The inherent sweetness and subtle spice of the rum add a warm, exotic flair, transforming it into an adventurous choice.
• Irish Alexander: Features Irish cream liqueur, infusing a whiskey-kissed creaminess. The rich, smooth texture of Irish cream, coupled with whiskey notes, offers a luxurious and comforting sip.
• Vodka Alexander: Uses vodka for a cleaner, more refined taste. This choice allows the cream and chocolate flavors to stand out, creating a smoother and more elegant experience.
• Banana Alexander: Brings in banana liqueur for a fruity, dessert-like quality. The tropical sweetness of banana perfectly pairs with the creamy base, evoking the indulgence of a rich dessert.
• Cherry Alexander: Incorporates cherry brandy, adding a tart and sweet dimension. This fruity twist creates a delightful balance between the cherry’s vibrancy and the creamy sweetness, offering a cheerful and fruity experience.

History and Origins of the Alexander Cocktail

The Alexander Cocktail has roots in the early 20th century. Historians have identified at least two drinks from this era known by the name ‘Alexander,’ but they differ in composition. Jacob Abraham Grohusko’s “Jack’s Manual on The Vintage & Production, Care & Handling of Wines, Liquors &c.” from 1910 describes the ‘Alexander Cocktail’ as a mix of three parts rye whiskey, one part Bénédictine, with a piece of ice and a twist of orange peel. However, Hugo Ensslin’s “Recipes for Mixed Drinks” from 1915 presents a different recipe, combining equal parts of gin, white crème de cacao, and sweet cream, shaken with ice and strained.