The Martini Alexander is a delightful and indulgent cocktail that brings together the smoothness of gin, the richness of crème de cacao, and the creaminess of fresh cream. Finished with a dusting of nutmeg, this dessert martini is perfect for those looking to enjoy a sophisticated, yet decadent drink. In this comprehensive blog post, we’ll explore the history of the Martini Alexander, detail its ingredients, provide a step-by-step recipe, and offer tips and variations to help you master this classic cocktail.
The Martini Alexander, often simply referred to as the Alexander, is a variation of the classic Brandy Alexander. The original Alexander cocktail is believed to have been created in the early 20th century, with the first known mention in print appearing in the 1916 book, “Recipes for Mixed Drinks” by Hugo Ensslin. While the Brandy Alexander gained fame as a favorite of John Lennon and is known for its creamy and rich profile, the Martini Alexander replaces brandy with gin, offering a botanical twist to this dessert cocktail.
Gin
Gin forms the base of the Martini Alexander, providing a botanical complexity that balances the sweetness of the crème de cacao and the richness of the cream. A London Dry Gin is typically used for its clean, juniper-forward profile, but you can experiment with other types of gin to find your preferred flavor.
Crème de Cacao
Crème de cacao is a chocolate-flavored liqueur that adds sweetness and depth to the Martini Alexander. Available in both dark and white varieties, dark crème de cacao is usually preferred for this cocktail due to its rich, cocoa-forward flavor. Popular brands include Bols and Marie Brizard.
Cream
Fresh cream adds a luscious, velvety texture to the Martini Alexander, making it a true dessert in a glass. Heavy cream is typically used, but you can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version. The cream balances the alcohol and adds a luxurious mouthfeel.
Nutmeg
A sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg serves as the garnish for the Martini Alexander, adding a warm, spicy aroma that complements the richness of the cocktail. Freshly grated nutmeg is preferred over pre-ground for its more intense and vibrant flavor.
The Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 ounces gin
- 1 ounce dark crème de cacao
- 1 ounce heavy cream
- Ice
- Freshly grated nutmeg for garnish
Chill the Glass: Start by chilling your cocktail glass. Place it in the freezer or fill it with ice water while you prepare the drink. A well-chilled glass helps maintain the cocktail’s refreshing quality.
Prepare the Ingredients: Measure out the gin, dark crème de cacao, and heavy cream. Using precise measurements ensures a well-balanced cocktail.
Mix the Cocktail: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add the gin, dark crème de cacao, and heavy cream. The ice helps chill and dilute the cocktail slightly, blending the flavors seamlessly.
Shake Well: Shake the mixture vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. Shaking thoroughly chills the drink and creates a smooth, creamy texture.
Strain into the Glass: Empty the ice water from your chilled glass. Using a Hawthorne strainer, pour the cocktail into the glass. The strainer ensures that any ice shards are left behind in the shaker.
Garnish: Garnish your Martini Alexander with freshly grated nutmeg. Hold a whole nutmeg over the drink and grate it lightly to create a fragrant dusting on top of the cocktail.
Serve and Enjoy: Your Martini Alexander is ready to be savored. Enjoy the harmonious blend of gin, crème de cacao, and cream, with the aromatic touch of nutmeg.
Quality Ingredients
Using high-quality ingredients is essential for crafting a superior Martini Alexander. Invest in a good gin, reputable dark crème de cacao, and fresh cream to ensure the best flavor.
Fresh Cream
Using fresh, high-quality cream is crucial for achieving the rich, velvety texture that defines the Martini Alexander. Heavy cream is preferred, but half-and-half can be used for a lighter version.
Proper Shaking Technique
Shake the cocktail vigorously to achieve the right level of dilution and chill. A well-shaken Martini Alexander will have a smooth texture and a balanced taste.
Freshly Grated Nutmeg
Use freshly grated nutmeg for the garnish. It provides a more intense and aromatic flavor compared to pre-ground nutmeg, enhancing the overall experience of the cocktail.
- Mint Alexander: Add a splash of crème de menthe for a refreshing minty twist on the classic Martini Alexander.
- Coffee Alexander: Substitute the crème de cacao with coffee liqueur for a coffee-flavored variation that’s perfect for after-dinner enjoyment.
- Vanilla Alexander: Add a dash of vanilla extract or use vanilla-flavored gin for a vanilla-infused version of the cocktail.
The Martini Alexander pairs wonderfully with desserts and light appetizers. Here are a few suggestions:
- Chocolate Truffles: The rich, creamy texture of chocolate truffles complements the chocolate and cream flavors of the Martini Alexander.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of creamy and soft cheeses like brie, camembert, and mascarpone pairs well with the sweet and creamy notes of the cocktail.
- Fruit Tart: A fresh fruit tart with a light pastry crust makes for a delightful and elegant dessert pairing that mirrors the cocktail’s flavor profile.
The Martini Alexander is a classic dessert cocktail that combines the botanical richness of gin, the chocolate sweetness of crème de cacao, and the creamy texture of fresh cream. Its unique flavor profile and elegant presentation make it a standout choice for both classic cocktail enthusiasts and those looking to explore new and exciting drinks.
By understanding the history, carefully selecting high-quality ingredients, and mastering the mixing techniques, you can craft a perfect Martini Alexander that is sure to impress. Whether enjoyed as an after-dinner treat or paired with elegant desserts, this cocktail offers a sophisticated and delightful drinking experience. Cheers to the enduring charm of the Martini Alexander!
