the brandy alexander and panama cocktail recipes

The Brandy Alexander is a creamy cocktail that is based on the much popular Gin based version which was just called Alexander. The cocktail has a warm silky texture and is sweet which makes it perfect as an after dinner dessert drink.  The drink was popular in the early part of 20th century, although it is probably making a comeback.

The drink uses Brandy as the base spirit, instead of Gin. The dark Creme de Cacao is used in this recipe, along with cream. This gives it a much darker color when compared to the other variation, the Panama cocktail.

The Panama cocktail is a version of the Brandy Alexander where white or clear Creme de Cacao is used instead of the dark one. The clear liqueur gives it a slightly lighter complexion.

Ingredients

  • 1.5 shots of Brandy
  • 1.5 shots of Creme de Cacao – dark
  • 1.5 shots of Heavy  Cream
  • Grated Nutmeg for garnish (optional)
Brandy Alexandar Cocktail in a martini glass

Preparation

  1. Add ice cubes into the martini shaker
  2. Add 1.5 shots of Brandy
  3. Add 1.5 shots of Creme de Cacao
  4. Add 1.5 shots of heavy cream
  5. Shake all the ingredients well
  6. Strain the contents of the shaker into a chilled martini glass
  7. Garnish with grated nutmeg (to taste)

Variations and Similar Drinks

  • Gin Alexander or just Alexander is commonly believed to be the drink from which Brandy Alexandar originated. It is made with Gin instead of Brandy.
  • Frozen Brandy Alexander is a blended version in which 2 large scoops of vanilla icecream is substituted for cream. It is blended and served frozen in a tall glass.
  • Alexander’s Sister is made with Creme de Menthe instead of Creme de Cacao.
  • A Velvet Hammer is made with Vodka instead of the brandy. Some recipes also call for triple sec.
  • If you substitute any coffee liqueur like Kahlua or Tia Maria instead of Brandy, then you have Coffee Alexander.

Tips & Notes

  • To reduce the sweetness of the drink, you may increase the proportion of brandy compared to the cream and creme de cacao.
  • You may see similar Brandy Alexander recipes which uses a slightly different proportion rather than equal parts.