Cocktail Art
  1. Home
  2. Cocktails
  3. Brandy
  4. Alexander
Alexander cocktail in a cocktail glass
COGNAC · COCKTAIL GLASS · SHAKE

Alexander

★ 4.4 · 83 ratings in Cocktail Art

The Alexander is a rich, dessert-like cocktail with a smooth, sweet profile. Combining Cognac, white creme de cacao, and fresh cream, it tastes like a luxurious, boozy milkshake with a hint of spice from the nutmeg garnish. It is best served as an after-dinner digestif. The drink is a classic variation of the original gin-based Alexander, dating back to the early twentieth century.

  • IBA official
  • Classic
  • Creamy
  • Digestif
  • Sweet
  • GlassCocktail glass
  • MethodShake
  • Time3 min
  • Strength≈ 16% ABV
Open in Cocktail ArtDownload on the App Store

How to make a Alexander

Shake it in a cocktail glass with ice cubes. About 3 minutes.

  1. Chill your cocktail glass in the freezer for a few minutes before preparing the drink.
  2. Add Cognac, white creme de cacao, and cream into a shaker filled with ice cubes.
  3. Shake vigorously for about 10 to 15 seconds until well-chilled.
  4. Double strain the mixture into the chilled cocktail glass.
  5. Garnish with a light dusting of freshly grated nutmeg on top.

Bartender’s tips

  • If you do not have Cognac, a good quality brandy works as an excellent substitute.
  • For a slightly deeper, chocolate-forward flavor, you can substitute white creme de cacao with dark creme de cacao.
  • Ensure the cream is completely fresh and cold; shaking it vigorously with ice helps create a beautifully frothy texture.

You may also like

If you enjoy the rich and classic flavors of the Alexander, you might also want to try the Sidecar, Irish Coffee, French Coffee, or an Aperol Spritz.

Sidecar cocktail

Sidecar3.8

Cognac · Shake · 3 ingredients

Irish Coffee cocktail

Irish Coffee4.5

Irish whiskey · Stir · 4 ingredients

French Coffee cocktail

French Coffee3.8

Brandy · Build · 3 ingredients

Aperol Spritz cocktail

Aperol Spritz4.6

Prosecco · Build · 3 ingredients

1 100+ more recipes in your pocket

Core recipes and your bar are free. Premium unlocks all collections, substitutes and AI photos for your own cocktails.

Recipe screen in the Cocktail Art app
Download on the App Store★ 4.6 · 584 ratings

Alexander questions

Can I use brandy instead of Cognac in an Alexander?

Yes, you can substitute Cognac with 30 ml of any high-quality brandy to achieve a very similar flavor profile.

How strong is the Alexander cocktail?

The Alexander has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of about 16 percent, making it a moderately strong dessert drink.

What kind of cream should I use?

Use 30 ml of fresh heavy cream or whipping cream to ensure the cocktail gets its signature rich, velvety texture after shaking.