Save Brandy Alexander Pie is the showstopper dessert you break out for celebrations or just a playful dinner party. Inspired by the classic cocktail, this treat blends luscious ice cream with notes of brandy and chocolate, all cradled in a crisp, buttery cookie crust. Every bite is cool, creamy, and slightly grown up, yet familiar enough to feel nostalgic.
I first made this to impress my book club and we ended up fighting for the last slice. It is now the most requested dessert whenever friends come over.
Ingredients
- Chocolate wafer cookie crumbs: bring that signature cocoa crunch Choose the darkest, crispiest wafers you can find
- Unsalted butter: for rich flavor and binds the crust Fresh butter gives the best taste
- Granulated sugar: gives the crust a touch more sweetness Look for fine cane sugar
- Vanilla ice cream: forms the creamy, frozen heart of the pie Use a rich custard style brand for extra indulgence
- Crème de cacao: brings in classic chocolate liqueur flavor Quality liqueur will boost the depth of flavor
- Brandy: adds a subtle warmth and sophistication Choose one you would actually sip
- Instant espresso powder: optional for a hint of coffee that enhances the chocolate aroma Use fresh powder for max aroma
- Heavy whipping cream: makes a decadent fresh topping Go for high fat cream for lightest whip
- Powdered sugar: sweetens the whipped cream Use superfine for best texture
- Vanilla extract: gives a beautiful aroma to the topping Use real vanilla whenever possible
- Grated chocolate or chocolate curls: add a finishing flourish Shave from a high quality chocolate bar for curls
Instructions
- Make the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F or 175°C Place cookie crumbs in a bowl and stir in the melted butter and sugar Combine until all crumbs are evenly coated The texture should look like wet sand Press this mixture into a 9 inch pie plate packing it tightly along the base and sides with the bottom of a glass for even firmness
- Bake and Cool the Crust:
- Slide the pie dish into the oven and bake for about 8 to 10 minutes This baking step helps the crust set so it stays crisp against the soft filling Do not overbake or the edges may get too hard Once finished remove and let it cool completely on a rack
- Prepare the Filling:
- Slightly soften your vanilla ice cream on the counter for about 10 minutes In a large bowl combine the ice cream crème de cacao brandy and espresso powder if you are using Blend just until smooth and everything is streak free Work quickly to avoid melting the ice cream too much
- Fill and Freeze the Pie:
- Pour the ice cream mixture into the cooled crust Spread the top so it is level and smooth Gently tap the pie on the counter to release any air pockets Slide it into the freezer and let it sit until firm at least 3 hours for clean slices
- Whip the Cream Topping:
- Chill your mixing bowl and beaters beforehand for best results Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract on medium high speed Stop when you see soft peaks forming do not overwhip as it will turn grainy
- Top and Garnish:
- Just before serving pile the whipped cream over the frozen pie Sprinkle a generous amount of grated chocolate or chocolate curls for a showy finish
- Serve:
- To make slicing easier let the pie sit at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes before cutting Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water for the cleanest cuts
Save This pie always reminds me of my aunt who made every holiday memorable with her boozy desserts I love the instant espresso in the filling for how it deepens all the chocolate notes and I always sneak in a little extra when making it for adults
Storage Tips
Cover any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or foil and return to the freezer It will keep fresh for a week but is best in the first few days when the flavors are most vibrant For longer storage press a layer of parchment right over the filling before covering This helps prevent freezer burn and ice crystals
Ingredient Substitutions
If you can not find chocolate wafer cookies chocolate graham crackers work beautifully and taste a little like s more For a family friendly version replace the crème de cacao and brandy with a few tablespoons of chocolate syrup and a splash of brewed espresso The whipped cream can be swapped for a dairy free version to suit more diets
Serving Suggestions
Let your pie sit out five to ten minutes before slicing and serve straight from the freezer For a party you can pre slice and return to the freezer on parchment for easy grab and go Even fancier top each piece with an espresso bean or a cherry or dust on a little cocoa powder along with the grated chocolate This pie is sophisticated enough to follow a steak dinner yet playful enough for summer cookouts
Cultural Context
Brandy Alexander has roots as a creamy cocktail from the early 1900s and was once the height of retro sophistication Transforming it into a pie gives you all the fun of the drink but in dessert form It has long been a staple at American potlucks especially in the Midwest because it feels celebratory but comes together in minutes
Seasonal Adaptations
In winter use dark chocolate shavings and a little nutmeg in the whipped cream for warmth In summer pair it with fresh raspberries or a drizzle of cold brewed coffee For the holidays swirl a bit of orange zest atop the whipped cream
Save This pie is easy and playful enough for summer but brings retro glamour to any table. Try different toppings with friends and enjoy the rich chocolate brandy combo in every slice.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I make this without alcohol?
Yes, substitute the brandy and crème de cacao with chocolate syrup and a splash of coffee for a non-alcoholic option.
- → What type of cookies work best for the crust?
Chocolate wafer cookies are ideal, but chocolate graham crackers also work well as a crunchy pie base.
- → How long should the pie be frozen before serving?
Freeze for at least 3 hours or until firm for best slicing and texture.
- → Is it possible to make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare and freeze the pie in advance, then add whipped cream and garnish before serving.
- → Are there any allergy concerns?
This dessert contains milk, dairy, and possible gluten from the cookies. Check labels for soy and nut traces.
- → What tools are needed?
You'll need a 9-inch pie plate, mixing bowls, electric mixer or whisk, rubber spatula, and measuring cups and spoons.