February 7, 2024
Review RecipeAlexander Cocktail
Alexander cocktail is an elegant drink that is simple to make and has a unique flavor and rich texture.
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The Alexander cocktail is an iconic drink that has been enjoyed since the early 20th century. A classic mix of gin, crème de cacao, and heavy cream, this beverage features a creamy texture and sweet taste, making it an excellent before or after-dinner treat.
Alexander Cocktail Ingredients
The Alexander gin drink is the perfect balance between the bitter flavor of gin and the sweetness of crème de cacao.
The cream gives it a decadent texture and taste that adds to its complexity. All in all, this cocktail is sure to satisfy anyone looking for a sophisticated drink!
You’ll need:
- 1½ ounces of dry gin
- 1½ ounces of crème de cacao
- 1½ ounces of half & half
- Garnish with freshly grated nutmeg
PRO TIP:
Crème de cacao is different from a white chocolate liqueur (such as Godiva or Mozart brands).
The white chocolate liqueurs are made of cocoa, cream, and vodka. They will not taste the same in this cocktail as the crème de cacao.
Crème de cacao is just a straight chocolate-flavored liqueur.
I like to use the clear one for the gin version of an Alexander cocktail as it keeps the cocktail a beautiful white color.
Substitutions And Additions
NUTMEG: You do not necessarily need fresh ground nutmeg if it is not available to you.
The pre-grated is fine for this Alexander drink recipe. I would just be sure to use a fresh container, and just a very small pinch will be plenty.
If you don’t have nutmeg, you can substitute it with a pinch of ground cinnamon for a familiar flavor.
CREAM: The half & half makes a cocktail that is not too rich but has a nice creaminess to it.
Some Alexander cocktails call for the use of heavy cream, and that is just as good.
I do not recommend whole milk or anything lighter, as this cocktail works best with the higher-fat dairy options. I have not tried this with dairy-free alternatives.
BRANDY: If you make this cocktail with 1½ ounces of brandy instead of dry gin, you will have a brandy Alexander cocktail.
You can use a dark crème de cacao for this version.
How To Make This Alexander Cocktail Recipe
This pretty white drink only takes a few minutes to come together and will make you feel extra fancy while sipping away.
STEP ONE: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice (approximately one cup), dry gin, crème de cacao, and half & half.
STEP TWO: Shake for 15-20 seconds or until the cocktail is very cold. Pour into a seven-ounce coupe glass while straining out the ice.
PRO TIP:
A coupe glass, as it is commonly called, can be used to serve martinis, champagne, or a Manhattan.
You can also use a seven-ounce traditional martini glass for this recipe.
STEP THREE: Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh nutmeg.
Troubleshooting This Recipe
My cocktail is too thick or creamy
Solution: If your Alexander cocktail turns out too thick or creamy for your liking, it’s likely due to an excess of cream.
To fix this, simply add a bit more of your base spirit. Gradually adjust until you reach your desired consistency.
My cocktail is too thin or watery
Solution: On the flip side, if your cocktail is too thin or watery, you might have added too much liquid.
To thicken it up, blend in a little more cream until you achieve the desired creaminess without diluting the flavors further.
My cocktail is too sweet
Solution: If your Alexander cocktail is overly sweet, consider adding a splash of lemon juice to balance the sweetness.
You can also increase the amount of your base spirit to mellow out the sweetness. Taste as you go to find the right balance.
My cocktail is not sweet enough
Solution: Conversely, if your cocktail isn’t sweet enough for your taste, you can add sugar or a different sweetener (like honey or maple syrup) to sweeten it up.
Be sure to dissolve the sweetener thoroughly to avoid graininess in your drink.
How To Serve
SERVE WITH APPETIZERS: An Alexander cocktail pairs nicely with appetizers like stuffed mushrooms, olives, and nuts.
Other snacks to pair with this cocktail include shrimp cocktails, deviled eggs, and cheese boards.
For larger gatherings, try serving a variety of charcuterie items like salami, prosciutto, and dried fruits.
SERVE WITH DINNER: You can also serve it alongside pork tenderloin or grilled salmon.
A side of roasted vegetables or a tomato cucumber salad would be the ideal addition to the meal.
SERVE WITH DESSERT: Transform your Alexander cocktail into a dessert experience by serving it alongside sweet treats.
Pair it with chocolate truffles, tiramisu, or a slice of cheesecake.
SERVE WITH BRUNCH: Serve it alongside a platter of freshly baked pastries, like croissants and danishes.
We have plenty of cocktail recipes to share with you to serve at your next dinner party. Don’t forget to check out our fruit tingle cocktail and limoncello spritz.
When To Serve
COCKTAIL HOUR: Its dessert-like qualities make it an ideal choice for a pre-dinner drink or evening gathering.
DESSERT PAIRING: It pairs exceptionally well with treats like chocolate truffles, cheesecake, or fruit tarts.
BRUNCH: Its mild sweetness and creamy texture make it a pleasant morning indulgence.
AFTER DINNER: They can serve as a luxurious after-dinner drink, especially when garnished with a sprinkle of nutmeg or a touch of whipped cream.
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Storage
IN THE FRIDGE: This Alexander cocktail needs to be enjoyed immediately. It won’t keep for any length of time in the fridge.
IN THE FREEZER: We don’t recommend freezing this Alexander cocktail. It is best made fresh.
Why We Love This Recipe
TIMELESS CLASSIC: The Alexander cocktail has stood the test of time. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its deliciousness.
BALANCED SWEETNESS: It’s not overly sweet, making it enjoyable for a wide range of palates.
VERSATILITY: You can enjoy the Alexander cocktail in various ways—whether as an aperitif, dessert, brunch drink, or even as a coffee companion.
This delicious Alexander cocktail is an excellent addition to any dinner party or gathering. It’s simple to make, and its unique flavor and velvety texture will surprise guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed to make a cocktail Alexander?
An Alexander cocktail is made with gin, crème de cacao, and half & half.
What is the best cocktail glass for this Alexander drink?
We like using a coupe glass to make this popular drink, but martini glasses would also be fine to make this cocktail.
Can I make this alcoholic beverage ahead of time?
This gin Alexander cocktail is best enjoyed right away.
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Alexander Cocktail
Alexander cocktail is an elegant drink that is simple to make and has a unique flavor and rich texture.
Prep Time 1 minute
Total Time 1 minute
Servings 1
Ingredients
- 1½ ounces dry gin,
- 1½ ounces crème de cacao,
- 1½ ounces half & half
- freshly grated nutmeg, for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice (approximately 1 cup), dry gin, crème de cacao, and half & half.
- Shake for 15-20 seconds or until the cocktail is very cold. Pour into a 7-ounce coupe glass while straining out the ice.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg.
Notes
- Crème de cacao is different from a white chocolate liqueur (such as Godiva or Mozart brands). The white chocolate liqueurs are made of cocoa, cream, and vodka. They will not taste the same in this cocktail as the crème de cacao. Crème de cacao is just a straight chocolate-flavored liqueur. I like to choose the clear one for the gin version of an Alexander cocktail as it keeps the cocktail a beautiful white color.
- A coupe glass, as it is commonly called, can be used to serve martinis, champagne, or a Manhattan. You can also use a 7-ounce traditional martini glass for this recipe.
Nutrition
Calories: 302kcal | Carbohydrates: 24g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 15mg | Sodium: 26mg | Potassium: 57mg | Sugar: 14g | Vitamin A: 151IU | Vitamin C: 0.4mg | Calcium: 46mg | Iron: 0.04mg
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