Brandy Alexander
The Brandy Alexander is a creamy, indulgent cocktail with rich flavors of brandy and white creme de cacao, complemented by the smoothness of vanilla ice cream. Perfect for after-dinner drinks or special occasions, it offers a luxurious and velvety treat for those who enjoy sophisticated, sweet beverages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend the brandy, white creme de cacao, and vanilla ice cream in a blender until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into champagne glasses and sprinkle with nutmeg.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark creme de cacao instead of white. If you're looking for a non-alcoholic version, substitute the brandy with apple cider and use a non-alcoholic vanilla syrup. To achieve the best texture, ensure your ice cream is slightly softened before blending. If you like a thicker shake, add an extra scoop of ice cream.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Brandy Alexander immediately after preparation for the best flavor and texture. It pairs beautifully with desserts like Grandma O'Dell'S French Crullers or can be enjoyed as a standalone treat. Garnish with a fresh sprinkle of nutmeg for an elegant touch, and consider serving alongside coffee or a light dessert.
Storage & Reheating
This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the freezer. When ready to serve again, blend the mixture with a splash of milk to bring it back to a smooth consistency. Avoid storing for more than a couple of days to maintain the quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Brandy Alexander contains roughly 523 calories, with 11g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (70% of the Daily Value), protein (22% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 20g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Brandy Alexander ahead of time?
While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the mixture in advance and store it in the freezer. Just remember to blend it again with a bit of milk before serving to restore its creamy texture.
What can I use instead of vanilla ice cream?
If you don't have vanilla ice cream, you can use any creamy ice cream like chocolate or coffee flavor for a unique twist. Alternatively, try a dairy-free ice cream to make this a vegan-friendly drink.
Is there a way to make this cocktail less sweet?
To reduce the sweetness, you can adjust the amount of white creme de cacao. Consider using only 2 oz. instead of 3 oz. Additionally, increasing the brandy slightly can help balance the sweetness with more depth.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).