A smooth, creamy classic with timeless elegance—meet the Alexander. This iconic after-dinner drink brings together rich cocoa notes and silky texture, making it a favorite among The Alexander Cocktail lovers across Los Angeles, from rooftop lounges in Downtown LA to cozy speakeasies in Silver Lake. An IBA official drink you won't want to miss.
Whether you're planning a private party in Santa Monica, a wedding in Pasadena, or just a classy night at home, mastering The Alexander Cocktail adds sophistication to any occasion.
- Ingredients for One Serving
- 1 oz Cognac (or Brandy)
- 1 oz Crème de Cacao (dark)
- 1 oz Fresh Cream
- Ice cubes
- Freshly grated nutmeg (for garnish)
Local Tip: For a true LA touch, try using locally crafted California brandy from nearby distilleries like Ventura Spirits or Stark Spirits in Pasadena.
How to Make The Alexander Cocktail – Step-by-Step
Chill the glass.
Start by chilling your coupe or martini glass in the freezer or by filling it with ice water while you prep the cocktail.
Add the ingredients.
In a cocktail shaker, pour 1 oz Cognac, 1 oz crème de cacao, and 1 oz fresh cream. Great for The Alexander Cocktail.
Add ice and shake hard.
Fill the shaker with ice, seal it, and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. The goal is to chill the mix and get a lightly frothy texture from the cream.
Strain into the chilled glass.
Empty your glass, strain the cocktail through a fine mesh strainer to remove ice shards, and pour the silky mix in.
Garnish with nutmeg.
Lightly grate nutmeg over the top for aroma and an elegant finish.
Alexander cocktail in LA Culture
The Alexander has found new life in LA's modern bar scene. Bars in West Hollywood often serve elevated versions using aged brandy, while mixologists in Echo Park infuse it with orange bitters or nut milk for dairy-free twists.
Hosting a Hollywood Hills gathering? The Alexander's smooth profile makes it a natural closer to any high-end dinner party.
Common Questions
Can I use brandy instead of cognac?
Yes—most modern The Alexander Cocktail use brandy. Cognac adds richness but isn't essential.
What's the difference between a Brandy Alexander cocktail and the Alexander Drink?
They're essentially the same—"Alexander" is the base name, and "Brandy Alexander" is just the most popular version.
Can I make this in bulk for a Los Angeles event?
Definitely. Party Shakers offers custom cocktail batching for events across Los Angeles County, including Burbank, Glendale, and Malibu. Just ask us how we can scale this creamy delight for your party.
Book a Bartender in Los Angeles for The Alexander Cocktail
Want your guests sipping perfect Alexanders without lifting a shaker? Let Party Shakers bring the experience to you. We serve events across all Los Angeles neighborhoods, offering barista-quality cocktails, photo booths, and unbeatable energy.