Brandy Alexander with Ice Cream
When it comes to after-dinner drinks, this decadent Brandy Alexander with ice cream is the perfect holiday cocktail right through Christmas time. It’s beautiful, delicious, and easy to make. The only downside is that everyone will want one once they see it!
What is a Brandy Alexander?
The Brandy Alexander is believed to have been created over 100 years ago in the early 1900s, specifically 1922. Though the original Alexander was a gin-based cocktail, Harry Macelhone changed it to brandy and it stuck, according to Signature Cocktails by Amanda Schuster. It’s a classic cocktail typically made with brandy or cognac, white crème de cacao, and heavy cream.
Basically, this is a boozy milkshake, which is why it was considered a “gateway drink” at supper clubs, meaning an introduction to the taste of alcohol.
We went even a little more sinful with this favorite of dessert cocktails, using ice cream and dark crème de cacao. I think you’ll agree it takes this wonderful drink to a whole new level. For a couple of other vintage cocktails to try, I’d recommend this Classic French 75 and our French Sidecar.
What Goes Into this Dessert Cocktail?
Just a handful of ingredients and you’ll be on your way to sipping this frozen Brandy Alexander.
- Brandy
- Dark Creme de Cacao
- Vanilla Ice Cream
- Ground Nutmeg (for sprinkling)
- Dark Chocolate (for garnish, optional)
Scroll down to the recipe card for full instructions and a printable recipe.
How To Make a Brandy Alexander Cocktail with Ice Cream
Step 1: To a blender, add dark creme de cacao.
Step 2: Add the brandy.
Step 3: Add vanilla ice cream.
Step 4: Blend until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Pour the mixture into a chilled martini cocktail glass.
Fill to almost the top.
Step 6: Add a dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle ground nutmeg on top. Add dark chocolate shavings for garnish.
Serve and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
You, of course, don’t need to make this as decadent as we have, here. This perfect dessert cocktail can be made with half and half or whole milk, as well.
Any chocolate liqueur will work fine if you don’t have crème de cocoa. Try this with crème de menthe if you like minty flavors. If you don’t like the flavor of cognac or brandy, you can leave it out completely. Of course, it won’t be a Brandy Alexander, but it will still be delicious.
To take this to a whole new level of Christmas, top it with whipped cream and crushed peppermint. You could even garnish it with a mini candy cane.
The sky really is the limit with this fun cocktail. You could replace the crème de cacao with coffee liqueur, amaretto, cherry liqueur, or your favorite cordial. Make your own version and let us know what you come up with!
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course! Chocolate would be delicious. Choose your favorite.
You really can’t. To get the best texture and flavor, this should be made just before drinking.
Of course. Substitute apple juice for the brandy and leave out the crème de cacao. You could add a little chocolate syrup for more chocolate flavor.
Top Tips
Serve this cocktail right away. Once it melts, it’s just not the same.
Use the best quality vanilla ice cream. Spring for vanilla bean if your store has it.
Reduce or increase the ounces of brandy based on your preferences.
More Delicious Frozen Cocktails
Brandy Alexander Cocktail with Ice Cream
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 oz Brandy
- 1 oz Dark Creme de Cacao
- 1 scoop Vanilla Ice Cream
- Ground Nutmeg for sprinkling
- Dark Chocolate for garnish, optional
Instructions
- In a blender, combine the brandy, dark creme de cacao, and vanilla ice cream.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
- Sprinkle ground nutmeg on top.
- Top with whipped cream and dark chocolate shavings for garnish, if using.
- Serve and enjoy!
Notes
Any chocolate liqueur will work in place of crème de cacao.
