Alexander's Sister recipe
A refreshing, mint-infused classic cream cocktail built upon botanical gin and rich dairy.
Method: Shake and fine strain ·
Glass: Chilled coupe glass ·
Time: 4 min ·
Difficulty: Beginner ·
Family: The Sidecar Family
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz Dry gin
- 0.75 oz Green crème de menthe
- 0.75 oz Heavy cream (Whipping cream)
How to make a Alexander's Sister
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
- Add the dry gin, green crème de menthe, and heavy cream to the shaker.
- Shake vigorously for approximately 15 to 20 seconds to chill and emulsify the dairy.
- Fine strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass.
- Garnish with a light dusting of freshly grated nutmeg.
Garnish
Garnish with a light dusting of freshly grated nutmeg.
Pro tip
Vigorous shaking is essential when working with cream to achieve a proper silky emulsion and frosted texture. Use fresh whipping cream rather than half-and-half for optimal mouthfeel.
History of the Alexander's Sister
First appearing in Harry Craddock’s influential 1930 Savoy Cocktail Book, Alexander’s Sister emerged as a refreshing, herbaceous twist on the classic gin or brandy Alexander family. While popular cocktail lore often credits early prohibition-era adaptations for the shift from crème de cacao to green crème de menthe, precise origins remain somewhat ambiguous. The drink gained enduring popularity as an after-dinner classic, trading chocolate notes for crisp peppermint while retaining the signature velvety cream texture that defines the Alexander lineage.
Flavour profile
Minty, Creamy, Botanical, Sweet
Variations
- Brandy Alexander — Substitute cognac for gin and swap green crème de menthe with dark crème de cacao for a rich chocolate profile.
- Grasshopper — Omit the gin entirely, using equal parts green crème de menthe, white crème de cacao, and heavy cream for a mint-chocolate dessert drink.
Practise making the Alexander's Sister in the free Virtual Bar game.