This eggnog brandy alexander cocktail blends classic holiday eggnog with brandy, crème de cacao, cream, vanilla, and freshly grated nutmeg for a luxurious, velvety winter drink. Rich, smooth, and beautifully aromatic, this seasonal twist on a vintage cocktail offers the perfect balance of warmth, spice, and creamy indulgence.
Hey, folks – I hope your week is going well.
Today, I’m sharing something wonderfully festive: an eggnog brandy alexander cocktail that transforms a timeless classic into a cozy holiday treat. It’s creamy, fragrant, and just spirited enough to feel celebratory without being overly strong. So, let’s dive into this eggnog brandy alexander cocktail.
A Brief Look at the Brandy Alexander
The Brandy Alexander is a creamy, dessert-style cocktail that first rose to popularity in the early 20th century. Evolving from the original gin-based Alexander, the brandy version quickly became the more beloved interpretation thanks to its warmer, richer flavour. Traditionally made with brandy, crème de cacao, and cream, it gained a reputation as an elegant after-dinner drink – smooth, sweet, and perfectly suited for winter and holiday gatherings. Adding eggnog is simply a natural seasonal progression, enhancing its velvety texture and festive charm.
Why You’ll Love This Eggnog Brandy Alexander Cocktail
- Creamy and festive: Eggnog and cream create a velvety, rich texture that feels cozy and indulgent.
- Balanced sweetness: Honeyed eggnog, crème de cacao, and vanilla offer gentle sweetness without becoming heavy or cloying.
- Elegant holiday twist: This variation keeps the vintage charm of a classic Brandy Alexander while giving it a distinctly seasonal flair.
- Simple to prepare: Just shake or stir and serve – perfect for effortless entertaining.
- Beautiful finish: A dusting of fresh nutmeg makes every glass aromatic and inviting.
Flavour and Texture Profile
This eggnog brandy alexander cocktail is silky, smooth, and slightly thick in the most pleasant way, thanks to the combination of eggnog and cream. Brandy introduces warmth and depth, while crème de cacao adds subtle chocolate notes that complement the spices naturally found in eggnog. Vanilla rounds everything out, and freshly grated nutmeg adds the classic aromatic finish.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Eggnog Brandy Alexander Cocktail
For this eggnog brandy alexander cocktail, you’ll be using classic cocktail staples along with a few festive additions to build richness and flavour.
- Eggnog: Adds creamy body, natural sweetness, and seasonal spice; adjust to taste for thickness and sweetness.
- Crème de cacao or chocolate liqueur: Brings a subtle cocoa note that pairs beautifully with eggnog and brandy.
- Cream: Enhances the velvety texture and makes the cocktail extra smooth and luxurious.
- Brandy: Provides warmth and depth, grounding the sweetness with a gently boozy finish.
- Vanilla (bean seeds, paste, or extract): Brightens the cocktail and complements the eggnog’s natural spices.
- Fresh nutmeg: Grated over the top for aroma and the classic Brandy Alexander character.
Possible Additions and Variations
- Stronger version: Add an extra splash of brandy or substitute dark rum for a deeper, warmer profile.
- Sweeter version: Add more crème de cacao or a touch of maple syrup.
- Chocolate-forward: Use dark crème de cacao instead of white.
- Spiced version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or allspice to the shaker.
- Lighter version: Replace part of the cream with additional eggnog.
More Festive Holiday Cocktails
Are you looking for more holiday creamy cocktails, like this eggnog brandy alexander cocktail? Be sure to check more recipes below:
- Festive Brandy Alexander Dessert Cocktail
- Festive White Chocolate Martini – A Luxurious Holiday Dessert Cocktail
- Creamy White Christmas Cocktail with Vanilla
I hope you enjoy this festive brandy alexander cocktail and will give the recipe a try. If you do, please let me know in the comment section below, send me a message on Instagram, or share your photos using the hashtag #havocinthekitchen.e your photos by adding the hashtag #havocinthekitchen.
Cheers!
Looks like a coupe of deliciousness! What a wonderful way to start the season.
Sounds amazing, Ben. I always make my own eggnog this time of year, but this year I might take it to the next level with your recipe!
Christmas is around the corner in your kitchen!
I would enjoy this cocktail – love all the ingredients. A great way to use eggnog :)
One to be kept far away from children given that it looks like chocolate milk 😂
That looks creamy and rich!
Hahahahahahaha! Daisy is looking a bit grumpy in that photo!!! Love this recipe. I love eggnog and I love a brandy alexander. Thanks!