Alexander

Introduction

History

The Alexander cocktail, often referred to as a Brandy Alexander, has a history that dates back to the early 20th century. It is believed to have been created in honor of Alexander Woollcott, a well-known American critic and commentator. However, other stories suggest it was named after the Russian tsar, Alexander II. Over the years, this cocktail has evolved but has always remained a symbol of elegance and refinement.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Notes

1. Do not attempt to combine the Gin and Brandy Alexander into a single drink.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To achieve the perfect Alexander cocktail, use high-quality ingredients. The brandy should be smooth, and the white crème de cacao should be of good quality to ensure a balanced flavor. When shaking the ingredients, make sure to do so vigorously to create a nice froth from the half-and-half. Lastly, grating fresh nutmeg on top as garnish will enhance the aroma and flavor of the cocktail.

Serving Suggestions

The Alexander cocktail is best served in a chilled martini glass. For an extra touch of elegance, garnish the rim of the glass with finely grated nutmeg before pouring the drink.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in preparing an Alexander cocktail is the shake and strain method. This technique ensures that the ingredients are well-mixed and chilled, providing a smooth texture and even flavor distribution.

Ingredient Substitutions

If brandy is not available, cognac or dark rum can be used as substitutes. Similarly, dark crème de cacao can replace white crème de cacao for a slightly different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

The Alexander cocktail is best enjoyed fresh. However, the brandy, white crème de cacao, and half-and-half mixture can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Add ice and shake just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Alexander cocktail in a martini glass with a sprinkle of fresh nutmeg on top. For a festive touch, add a cinnamon stick or a vanilla pod as a stirrer.

Pairing Recommendations

The creamy and rich Alexander cocktail pairs well with light desserts such as vanilla panna cotta, lemon sorbet, or shortbread cookies. It also complements the flavors of dark chocolate and berries.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

The Alexander cocktail should be consumed immediately after preparation and does not store well. It is not recommended to reheat or store this cocktail as it will affect the texture and flavor.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of the Alexander cocktail contains approximately 180 calories. The calories mainly come from the alcohol and the half-and-half.

Carbohydrates

An average serving of an Alexander cocktail contains approximately 14 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbs come from the white crème de cacao and the half-and-half.

Fats

The Alexander cocktail contains about 6 grams of fat per serving, primarily from the half-and-half. Using a low-fat or fat-free half-and-half can reduce the fat content if desired.

Proteins

This cocktail provides a minimal amount of protein, approximately 1 gram per serving, which also comes from the half-and-half.

Vitamins and minerals

The Alexander cocktail is not a significant source of vitamins and minerals. However, the nutmeg garnish provides a small amount of dietary fiber, manganese, and vitamin B6.

Alergens

The primary allergen present in the Alexander cocktail is dairy, due to the half-and-half. Individuals with a dairy allergy should avoid this drink or find a suitable dairy-free substitute.

Summary

The Alexander cocktail is a rich, indulgent drink best enjoyed occasionally due to its calorie, fat, and carbohydrate content. It provides minimal nutritional benefits but is a delightful choice for a special treat.

Summary

The Alexander cocktail is a timeless classic that offers a perfect blend of brandy, white crème de cacao, and half-and-half, finished with a hint of nutmeg. While it is rich in flavor and calories, it makes for a luxurious treat on special occasions. With its elegant presentation and indulgent taste, the Alexander remains a favorite choice for those who appreciate the finer things in life.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a chilly autumn day, and I had just finished helping my dear friend, Mrs. Jenkins, with her annual apple harvest. As a token of her gratitude, she invited me into her cozy kitchen for a warm cup of tea.

As we sat sipping our tea and chatting about the day's events, Mrs. Jenkins suddenly got a mischievous twinkle in her eye. She leaned in close and whispered, "Have you ever heard of a cocktail called an Alexander? It's a delicious concoction made with cream, creme de cacao, and brandy. I think you would love it."

My curiosity piqued, I eagerly asked her for the recipe. Mrs. Jenkins chuckled and pulled out a weathered, stained card from her recipe box. She handed it to me with a sly smile and said, "Consider it a little gift for all your hard work today."

I glanced down at the card and read through the ingredients and instructions. It seemed simple enough, but the combination of flavors intrigued me. I thanked Mrs. Jenkins profusely and promised to try making the cocktail at home.

When I got home that evening, I carefully tucked the recipe card into my own collection and set to work gathering the ingredients. I couldn't wait to taste this mysterious drink that had sparked Mrs. Jenkins' excitement.

I started by measuring out the cream, creme de cacao, and brandy, following the instructions on the card. As I mixed the ingredients together in a shaker, I could already smell the rich, decadent aroma wafting through the air.

After a vigorous shake, I strained the cocktail into a chilled glass and took a tentative sip. The first taste was like nothing I had ever experienced before – sweet, creamy, and rich, with a subtle kick from the brandy. It was absolutely delicious.

From that moment on, the Alexander became a staple in my repertoire of recipes. I would often make it for special occasions or when I wanted to treat myself to a luxurious evening drink.

Over the years, I shared the recipe with friends and family, who all fell in love with the Alexander just as I had. It became a signature cocktail at many of our gatherings, and I always made sure to have a fresh batch ready to serve.

As I got older, I started experimenting with different variations of the Alexander, adding my own twists and tweaks to the original recipe. I tried using different types of brandy, playing around with the ratios of cream to creme de cacao, and even adding a dash of nutmeg or cinnamon for a hint of spice.

Each new iteration brought its own unique flavor profile, but the essence of the Alexander remained the same – a decadent, indulgent treat that never failed to impress.

As I look back on that fateful day in Mrs. Jenkins' kitchen, I can't help but smile at how a simple recipe exchange led to the discovery of a beloved cocktail that has brought joy to so many over the years. The Alexander will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the power of sharing and the magic of trying something new. And for that, I am forever grateful.

Categories

| American Recipes | Brandy Drink Recipes | Crème De Cacao Drink Recipes | Gin Drink Recipes | Heavy Cream Recipes |

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