When you think of John Lennon, you might picture a guitar, round glasses, or a New York City sidewalk. But the music icon also had a surprisingly sweet spot for one particular cocktail: the Brandy Alexander. Rich, velvety, and dessert-like, it was Lennon’s go-to drink during his solo years, and one he famously joked was his “milkshake.”
If you’ve never tried one, this silky blend of brandy, crème de cacao, and heavy cream is about as comforting as cocktails get — smooth, retro, and endlessly sippable. Here’s how to recreate John Lennon’s signature drink exactly.
Ingredients
- ½ oz crème de cacao
- ½ oz brandy or cognac
- ½ oz heavy cream
- Ice
- Freshly grated nutmeg (optional, for garnish)
How to Make John Lennon's Brandy Alexander
- Pop a martini or coupe glass into the freezer so it’s icy cold by the time you pour. This drink needs a hard shake to get frothy and well-chilled.
- Pour into the shaker: ½ oz crème de cacao, ½ oz brandy, ½ oz heavy cream. (Yes — equal parts. Classic, simple, Lennon-approved.)
- Cover tightly and shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds until the outside of the shaker is frosted and cold.
- Strain into your chilled glass. Top with a light sprinkle of nutmeg for that cozy finish.
- Serve immediately.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
This is a shake-and-serve cocktail — it does not store well once mixed.
If you want to prep ahead you can chill your glass and measure the ingredients into a small jar and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Shake with ice just before drinking for proper texture.
FAQ
Why did John Lennon love the Brandy Alexander?
He reportedly enjoyed its creamy, dessert-like flavor and often ordered it during his “Lost Weekend” era in the 1970s.
Can I make it stronger?
You can increase the brandy to 1 oz — it becomes richer and more spirit-forward.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
You can, but the drink loses its iconic velvety texture. Heavy cream is the classic choice.
White or dark crème de cacao?
Either works, but dark gives the cocktail a slightly deeper color and richer chocolate note.
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