Today I am sharing with you one of my mother's recipes, a woman who for years has had countless boozy experiments in the works. I always remember her taking fresh berries from the garden and infusing them with Brandy - making a sweet after dinner cordial that she would sip with much delight.
Her recipe for a Strawberry Brandy Alexander uses her summery strawberry brandy and takes it to the cocktail glass, a modification of the classic cocktail made with Cognac or Brandy, Crème de Cacao, cream, and topped with grated nutmeg. Her fruity variation is a perfect nightcap for Valentine's Day - a sweet dessert perfect after a long meal, and boozy enough to keep the party going.
So, without further ado, this one is for the lovers:
Strawberry Brandy Alexander
Modified by Bonnie Ferrell
2 oz Strawberry Infused Brandy
1 oz Crème de Cacao
1 oz heavy cream
Shake with ice until well blended, and strain into a chilled martini glass.
Using the back of a spoon, float the cream on top. Garnish with a few slices of strawberries and a sprig of fresh mint.
1 lb. Ripe Strawberries, washed and stems removed
1 c Sugar
1 bottle Martell V.S. Cognac
Cut the strawberries in half and place in a non-reactive container such as a large canning jar. Add the sugar and cover with cognac.
Let sit in a dark, cool place for 3-4 days, shaking 1-2 times daily.
