Coffee Brandy Alexander Recipe

Name: Coffee Brandy Alexander
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 1
Ingredients: Ice; 2 ounces strong brewed coffee, cooled; 1 ounce brandy; 3⁄4 ounce crème de cacao; 1⁄2 ounce half-and-half; 1⁄4 ounce Amaro Averna; 3 whole coffee beans, for garnish; Freshly grated nutmeg, for garnish

This cocktail is a delightful combination of rich coffee and smooth liqueurs, creating a perfect blend of warmth and sweetness. Its the ideal drink for cozy evenings or a special gathering. Follow the steps to make a deliciously cold coffee-brandy treat.

Ingredients

2 ounces strong brewed coffee, cooled
1 ounce brandy
3/4 ounce crme de cacao
1/2 ounce half-and-half
1/4 ounce Amaro Averna
3 whole coffee beans, for garnish
Freshly grated nutmeg, for garnish

Directions

Start by filling a cocktail shaker halfway with ice. Add the cooled coffee, brandy, crme de cacao, half-and-half, and Amaro Averna. Close the shaker and shake vigorously until the mixture is chilled.

Strain the cocktail into a glass, and garnish with coffee beans and freshly grated nutmeg. Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing, aromatic flavors of this unique drink.

Recipe Tip

If you prefer a warm version of this cocktail, you can easily modify it. Begin by heating a small heatproof mug with boiling water for one minute. Discard the water, then add hot brewed coffee, brandy, crme de cacao, half-and-half, and Amaro Averna. Top with sweetened whipped cream and chocolate curls for an indulgent twist.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition Information (per serving)	Amount
Calories	252
Total Fat	0g
Saturated Fat	0g
Cholesterol	0mg
Sodium	6mg
Total Carbohydrate	26g
Dietary Fiber	0g
Total Sugars	22g
Protein	0g
Vitamin C	0mg
Calcium	3mg
Iron	0mg
Potassium	43mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Coffee Brandy Alexander: History and Cultural Insights

The Coffee Brandy Alexander is a modern twist on the classic Brandy Alexander, a cocktail that dates back to the early 20th century. Originally popularized in the 1920s and 1930s, the Brandy Alexander was traditionally a mix of brandy, crme de cacao, and cream, served as a smooth, dessert-style drink. The addition of coffee in this variation reflects a contemporary desire for richer, more complex flavors, combining the bittersweet notes of coffee with the creamy sweetness of the original cocktail.

Regional Variations

This cocktail has seen several regional adaptations, particularly in the United States and parts of Europe. In the U.S., bartenders often favor the addition of Amaro Averna or other herbal liqueurs, lending the drink a slightly bitter, aromatic edge that balances the sweetness. In European versions, particularly in Italy, the coffee element may be replaced with espresso or darker roasts, emphasizing depth and warmth over creaminess. These variations show how local tastes and available ingredients can transform a classic cocktail into a unique regional experience.

Differences from Similar Drinks

While it shares similarities with drinks like the traditional Brandy Alexander, the Coffee Brandy Alexander distinguishes itself through the integration of coffee and an herbal liqueur. Unlike a Mudslide, which blends vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream, the Coffee Brandy Alexander uses brandy as its primary spirit, giving it a smoother, slightly fruitier backbone. Its flavor profile is more sophisticated, combining creamy, sweet, bitter, and aromatic notes in a balanced, layered experience.

Typical Serving Occasions

This cocktail is versatile in its serving style. It can be enjoyed chilled in a cocktail glass for a classic evening treat, or served warm in a heatproof mug as a comforting winter beverage. It is commonly featured in upscale cocktail bars, dessert lounges, and during holiday gatherings, where its rich flavor complements chocolate desserts or after-dinner coffee. The garnish of coffee beans or freshly grated nutmeg not only enhances aroma but also adds a visual sophistication suitable for formal occasions.

Interesting Facts

The Brandy Alexander, from which this drink is derived, is said to have been named after either Alexander Woollcott, a New York critic, or the Russian Tsar Alexander II, though the true origin remains debated.
The addition of coffee makes this cocktail a favorite among coffee enthusiasts seeking a boozy twist to their daily cup.
Despite its dessert-like qualities, the Coffee Brandy Alexander is surprisingly balanced in sweetness and bitterness, appealing to both casual drinkers and cocktail connoisseurs.
The cocktail's adaptability allows for experimentation with different types of coffee, brandy, and herbal liqueurs, making it a canvas for creative mixology.
It has been featured in numerous mixology competitions and is often highlighted as a signature winter cocktail due to its warm, comforting flavor.

FAQ about Coffee Brandy Alexander Recipe

It is best to drink the Coffee Brandy Alexander immediately after preparation for optimal flavor. However, if you have leftovers, you can store the cocktail in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Be aware that the ice may dilute the drink, so it's recommended to drink it cold or over fresh ice.

Yes, you can scale up the recipe to make a large batch. Simply multiply the ingredient amounts by the number of servings you need, and mix in a large pitcher or bowl. When ready to serve, shake individual servings with ice in a cocktail shaker to ensure it's properly chilled before serving.

Yes, you can make a non-alcoholic version by replacing the brandy with a non-alcoholic spirit or a coffee-flavored syrup. You can also replace the Amaro Averna with a combination of herbal tea or a flavored syrup to maintain the drink's depth of flavor.

If you don’t have Amaro Averna, you can substitute with another type of amaro, such as Amaro Montenegro or Averna's close cousins like Fernet-Branca, though they will change the flavor profile slightly. Alternatively, you can use a combination of dark rum or coffee liqueur to mimic the bittersweet profile.

For a warm version of the Coffee Brandy Alexander, use hot brewed coffee instead of cold coffee. Warm the ingredients in a heatproof mug and top with sweetened whipped cream and chocolate curls for an indulgent treat.

While it's best consumed fresh, you can store leftover Coffee Brandy Alexander in the fridge for up to 24 hours. If stored longer, the drink may lose its original texture and flavor due to the dilution from melted ice and the separation of the cream and coffee.

Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time, excluding the ice, which you should add just before serving. You can store the cocktail mixture in the fridge and shake it with ice when ready to serve. This will ensure it is chilled and fresh.

If you don’t have crème de cacao, you can substitute with chocolate liqueur or a chocolate syrup for a similar rich, chocolaty flavor. Keep in mind that the sweetness and consistency may vary, so you may need to adjust the quantity to suit your taste.

For the best results, use freshly brewed, strong coffee. You can opt for espresso or a dark roast coffee for a bolder flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients. Avoid using overly sweetened coffee, as this can overpower the drink.

Yes, you can easily make a dairy-free version by substituting the half-and-half with a non-dairy cream, such as coconut cream or almond milk. These substitutes will still add the creamy texture while keeping the drink dairy-free.

Cook Time: 40 minutes