Updated on: 6/3/2025
The History of the Brandy Alexander Cocktail
Rich, creamy, and a little decadent, the Brandy Alexander has traced an uncommon path from pre-Prohibition innovation to postwar lounge staple and beyond. Its journey mirrors changing tastes in spirits, cocktail culture, and even pop culture itself.
Origins and Early Twentieth Century Debut
The Alexander cocktail first appeared in bar manuals around the 1910s, typically as a simple blend of gin, crème de cacao, and cream. The precise inventor is elusive, as recipes for creamy, chocolate-flavored cocktails began cropping up in New York’s hotel bars around this time. The Brandy Alexander—the version that gained true notoriety—substituted gin with brandy, adding richer flavor and a silken mouthfeel that appealed to enthusiasts and imbibers alike.
Evolution of the Brandy Alexander Recipe
While the gin-based Alexander remains a historical note, it was brandy that propelled the drink into classic status. Early recipes called for equal parts brandy, white crème de cacao, and cream, shaken over ice. This formula offered a sweet, mellow sipper often served after dinner or as a festive treat.
Bartenders in the 1920s and 1930s maintained these proportions, occasionally tweaking ratios or using heavier cream for extra indulgence. Through the mid-20th century, the cocktail cemented its reputation as a sophisticated, accessible crowd-pleaser—a favorite at hotel lounges and private clubs.
Core Brandy Alexander Ingredients
- 30 ml brandy (use a good-quality Cognac or brandy for richness)
- 30 ml white crème de cacao (not the darker variant)
- 30 ml fresh double cream
- Fresh grated nutmeg (garnish, essential for aroma and tradition)
Preparation Method
- Add 30 ml brandy, 30 ml white crème de cacao, and 30 ml cream to a cocktail shaker with plenty of ice.
- Shake vigorously until the outside of the shaker is frosty and the drink is well-chilled.
- Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
- Garnish generously with freshly grated nutmeg.
Cultural Context and Changing Palates
The Brandy Alexander reached peak popularity in the 1950s and 1960s—an era that celebrated indulgent, dessert-like drinks at supper clubs and dinner parties. Its creamy sweetness, subtle brandy warmth, and simple elegance attracted a wide array of drinkers. As lighter, aperitif-style cocktails surged in the late 20th century, the Brandy Alexander waned but never disappeared. Classic cocktail revivals and craft bars have brought the drink back into the spotlight for a new generation.
Famous Fans and Pop Culture Moments
The Brandy Alexander’s fanbase has included both royalty and Hollywood royalty. John Lennon once declared it his favorite cocktail, famously introducing it to Harry Nilsson. In film, Dudley Moore’s character in 'Arthur' and guests in 'Mad Men' order it as shorthand for lush, carefree decadence. Even Queen Elizabeth II was reportedly fond of the softer, gin-based Alexander at London clubs.
Why the Brandy Alexander Endures
With its simple equal-parts formula, creamy decadence, and sense of retro glamour, the Brandy Alexander remains an enduring treat for dessert cocktail lovers and anyone curious about classic recipes that shaped bar culture. Whether enjoyed for nostalgia or novelty, a well-made Brandy Alexander invites a little celebration in every glass.