Brandy Alexander
The Brandy Alexander is a rich, creamy, and sweet cocktail with a hint of nuttiness from the crème de cacao. It has a velvety texture and a warming, comforting taste that is perfect for sipping on a cold night.
American Beauty Cocktail Recipe
Jump to Recipe ⬇️
American Beauty Nutrition Facts
Calories:200
Fat:0g
Protein:0g
Carbohydrates:15g
Alcohol:20%
Created by
Nic Polotnianko
I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.
Last Updated: January 7, 2024
Contents
History
The American Beauty cocktail is a classic pre-prohibition era drink that has been enjoyed by many for over a century. It is said to have been created in the early 1900s in New York City and quickly gained popularity among the high society. This elegant cocktail is perfect for those who appreciate the finer things in life and enjoy a well-balanced, sophisticated drink.
- Origin: New York City, early 1900s
- Popular among high society
- A classic pre-prohibition era cocktail
How American Beauty Tastes?
The American Beauty is a harmonious blend of sweet, fruity, and floral flavors with a hint of tartness. The combination of brandy, orange liqueur, and vermouth creates a rich and complex base, while the grenadine and lemon juice add a touch of sweetness and acidity. The result is a smooth, well-balanced, and refreshing cocktail.
Interesting facts about American Beauty
- The American Beauty is often served in a coupe glass, which was popular during the pre-prohibition era.
- The cocktail is named after the American Beauty rose, a popular and fragrant flower during the early 1900s.
- The American Beauty is sometimes garnished with a cherry or an orange twist to enhance its visual appeal and add a touch of elegance.
Ingredients
- Brandy: 1 oz(30ml)
- Orange liqueur: 0.5 oz(15ml)
- Sweet vermouth: 0.5 oz(15ml)
- Grenadine: 1tsp
- Lemon juice: 0.5 oz(15ml)
- Chilled champagne: 1 oz(30ml)
- Maraschino cherry: 1
- Orange twist: 1
Brandy
Brandy, typically derived from distilled wine, provides a robust and fruit-forward base for this classic cocktail. Going overboard can lead to a dominant alcohol burn, while skimping on brandy might result in a flat cocktail experience. It’s the soul of the drink, so no skipping!
Mary Mitkina
Orange Liqueur
Half an ounce is just enough to add a citrusy kick without turning the cocktail into an orange grove. Too much, and the sweet citrus could overpower; too little, and you miss the essence of zest.
Emma Rose
Sweet Vermouth
Its herbaceous and sweet profile blends with brandy, playing up the cocktail’s complexity. An imbalance could make your drink either too herbaceous or too underwhelming.
Alex Green
Grenadine
Just a teaspoon, serving up a hint of sweetness and a dash of color. Overdo it, and your cocktail is candy. Forget it, and you lose that touch of sweetness that plays so nicely with the tart elements.
Mary Mitkina
Lemon Juice
This sour component is essential to balance the sweetness, creating a harmony in the glass. Overdo the lemon, and your lips might pucker in protest; don't use enough, and the cocktail might be too sweet.
Emma Rose
Chilled Champagne
The effervescence brings a celebratory spirit to the mix. Too much champagne can dilute the rich flavors, but if you omit it, you'll miss out on the bubbly fun that makes this cocktail a beauty.
Alex Green
Maraschino Cherry
One cherry is the edible jewel on the crown, adding a chewy treat and a hint of almond-like flavor. Without it, the drink keeps its charm, but you'll miss the fun of fishing for the boozy berry at the bottom of the glass.
Mary Mitkina
Orange Twist
It's all about aromatics. The twist ensures a burst of orange aroma with every sip. Missing the twist wouldn't be a catastrophe, but you'd lose a layer of sensory delight.
Emma Rose
Recipe. How to make American Beauty Drink
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine the brandy, orange liqueur, sweet vermouth, grenadine, and lemon juice.
- Shake well until chilled and well-mixed.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass.
- Top with the chilled champagne.
- Garnish with a maraschino cherry and an orange twist.
Pro Tips
- Chill your glass before serving to keep the cocktail cool longer.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for a better taste.
- Don't overdo it with the grenadine, it should enhance the cocktail's flavor, not overpower it.
Perfect Pairings
Appetizers
- Cheese Plates: Specifically those with aged cheeses like Gouda or Cheddar, which complement the nutty and fruity notes of the brandy.
- Seafood Canapés: Think shrimp or crab based appetizers that will play nice with the citrusy notes brought on by the orange liqueur and lemon juice.
- Bruschetta: Tomato-based bruschettas can offer a sweet and tangy contrast, balancing the sweetness of the grenadine and vermouth.
Main Courses
- Duck a l'Orange: Echoes the orange flavors in the cocktail and provides a rich pairing.
- Pork Tenderloin: The natural sweetness and the tender texture of pork tenderloin complements the sweet and citrus notes of the cocktail.
Desserts
- Dark Chocolate: The bitterness of dark chocolate will nicely counteract the sweetness of the cocktail.
- Berry Tart: The berry flavors work well with the fruity notes of the grenadine and cherry.
🍹 Discover the Top 50 All-Time Recipes! 🍹
Enter your email, and we'll send the exclusive list straight to your inbox.
We respect your privacy and take protecting it seriously
What you could change in American Beauty
- Brandy: Can be replaced with cognac or armagnac.
- Orange Liqueur: Triple sec or Cointreau can be used.
- Sweet Vermouth: Dry vermouth can be used for a less sweet cocktail.
- Chilled Champagne: Prosecco or other sparkling wines can be used.
Explore all drinks starting with A here
And of course - twists🍹
Cranberry Beauty
- Swap grenadine for cranberry syrup for a tart twist and add a sprig of rosemary for garnish.
- You’ll get a drink with a festive zing, perfect for holiday cheer and a touch of herbal sophistication.
Southern Belle
- Replace champagne with bourbon for a deeper American South influence.
- The substitution pushes the cocktail towards a more spirited territory, warm and bold, definitely for those who love a stronger kick.
Tropical Beauty
- Use pineapple juice instead of orange liqueur and top with coconut water instead of champagne.
- The result is a summery and exotic take, taking you on a mini-vacation with each sip as it introduces tropical sweetness and a creamy sensation.
In case you forgot basics how to make American Beauty
Add your ingredients to the shaker first, then ice. Fill it up to ¾ of its capacity to ensure enough space for shaking. Hold the shaker with both hands (one on the top and one on the bottom) and shake vigorously. The shake should come from your shoulders, not your wrists.
Learn everything on how to shakePlace your chosen strainer on top of the shaker or mixing glass, ensuring a secure fit. Pour the cocktail into a glass through the strainer, which will catch solid ingredients and ice. If double straining, hold the fine mesh strainer between the shaker and the glass.
Learn everything on how to strainGarnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).
Learn everything on garnishingFind the cocktail you'd love!
If you want to drink something else - you can use our AI-augmented search to find the best cocktail for you!
Completely free!
Frequently Asked Questions on American Beauty
What type of Brandy is best for the American Beauty cocktail?
Typically, a high-quality aged Brandy works well for the American Beauty cocktail. However, the choice ultimately depends on personal preferences.
Can I use another type of fruit liqueur if I don't have Orange Liqueur?
Yes, you can use other fruit liqueurs instead of orange, but keep in mind that each type of liqueur will significantly change the flavor profile of the cocktail.
What other garnishes can I use apart from Maraschino Cherry and Orange Twist?
While maraschino cherry and orange twist are traditional, you could also use other citrus twists, a dash of bitters on top, or even a sugar rim for additional complexity.
What type of glassware can be used if I don't have a coupe glass?
If you don't have a coupe glass, you could also use a martini glass or any other wide-brimmed glass.
Does the American Beauty cocktail pair well with any particular food?
Its fruity and floral notes pairs well with light appetizers like cheeses, fruits, or seafood.
More similar recipes to American Beauty!
Explore new cocktails you'd love!
brandyPin It
Porto Flip
The Porto Flip is a rich, velvety, and slightly sweet cocktail with a hint of nuttiness. The flavors of the port wine and brandy blend beautifully, while the egg adds a creamy texture. The cocktail is well-balanced, with a warming finish.
Brandy Sour
The Brandy Sour is a well-balanced cocktail with a smooth, velvety texture. It has a pleasant sweetness, followed by a refreshing sourness from the lemon juice, and a subtle warmth from the brandy. The drink is neither too strong nor too light, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.
Mojito
The Mojito is a refreshing, sweet, and slightly sour cocktail with a hint of mint and a subtle rum kick. It is a well-balanced drink that is both invigorating and easy to sip.
Martini
The Martini has a crisp, clean, and slightly herbal taste. It is a strong and sophisticated cocktail with a hint of bitterness from the vermouth.
Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned has a rich, complex taste that is both sweet and bitter. The whiskey provides a strong, warming base, while the sugar and bitters add a touch of sweetness and a hint of spice. The orange and cherry garnish add a subtle fruity note.
Kir Royale
The Kir Royale is a delightful, elegant, and refreshing cocktail with a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. It has a rich, fruity taste from the crème de cassis, complemented by the crisp, effervescent bubbles of the Champagne or sparkling wine.
French Martini
The French Martini has a rich, velvety texture with a sweet and fruity taste. The combination of pineapple juice, Chambord, and vodka creates a well-balanced flavor profile that is both refreshing and indulgent.
Rose
The Rose cocktail has a delicate and floral taste, with a hint of sweetness from the raspberry syrup. It is light and refreshing, with a subtle complexity from the combination of vermouth and cherry brandy. The finish is crisp and clean, leaving a pleasant aftertaste.
Mimosa
The Mimosa has a refreshing, light, and fruity taste. It is slightly sweet with a hint of tartness from the orange juice, and the sparkling wine adds a bubbly effervescence.
French 95
The French 95 has a smooth, rich taste with a hint of sweetness from the simple syrup and a touch of tartness from the lemon juice. The bourbon adds warmth and depth, while the champagne brings a light, effervescent finish.
Champagne Cocktail
The Champagne Cocktail has a delightful balance of flavors, with the sweetness of the sugar cube and the bitterness of the Angostura bitters complementing the crisp, dry taste of the champagne. The drink is effervescent, refreshing, and slightly fruity.
Tequila Sunrise
The Tequila Sunrise has a sweet and fruity taste, with a hint of sourness from the orange juice and grenadine. The tequila adds a subtle warmth and depth to the flavor, making it a well-balanced and satisfying drink.
Planter's Punch
Planter's Punch is a fruity, refreshing, and well-balanced cocktail. It has a sweet and tangy taste, with a hint of sourness from the citrus. The rum adds a warming, slightly spicy kick, while the grenadine provides a touch of sweetness.
Singapore Sling
The Singapore Sling has a complex, fruity taste with a balance of sweet, sour, and bitter notes. It is refreshing, tangy, and slightly effervescent, with a hint of herbal undertones.
Whiskey Sour
The Whiskey Sour is a well-balanced cocktail with a tangy, sour taste from the lemon juice, a subtle sweetness from the simple syrup, and a rich, warming sensation from the whiskey. The egg white adds a smooth, creamy texture.
Amaretto Sour
The Amaretto Sour is a sweet, tangy, and slightly nutty cocktail. The sweetness of the Amaretto is balanced by the sourness of the lemon juice, creating a refreshing and flavorful drink.
Apple Martini
The Apple Martini has a sweet and sour taste, with a crisp and refreshing apple flavor. It is well-balanced, with a slight tartness from the apple and a smooth, velvety finish from the vodka.
Margarita
The Margarita is a well-balanced cocktail with a bright, citrusy flavor. It is both sweet and sour, with the tanginess of lime juice complementing the sweetness of the orange liqueur. The tequila adds a strong, earthy backbone, while the salt rim enhances the overall taste and adds a savory touch.
Blue Margarita
The Blue Margarita has a well-balanced taste, combining the tangy and sour flavors of lime and orange liqueur with the sweetness of blue curaçao. It is a strong and refreshing cocktail with a hint of tropical fruitiness.
Rum Daisy
The Rum Daisy is a well-balanced cocktail with a sweet and sour flavor profile. It has a bright, citrusy taste from the lemon juice, balanced by the rich, molasses notes of the rum and the sweetness of the simple syrup. The addition of orange liqueur adds a touch of fruity complexity.
Brown Derby
The Brown Derby cocktail is a well-balanced mix of sweet, sour, and strong flavors. The bourbon provides a rich, warm base, while the grapefruit juice adds a tangy, citrusy note. The honey syrup brings a touch of sweetness to balance out the sourness of the grapefruit and the strength of the bourbon.
Amber Moon
The Amber Moon cocktail offers a harmonious balance of flavors, with a rich and velvety texture. It has a subtle sweetness, followed by a warm and spicy kick. The combination of whiskey, honey, and cinnamon creates a smooth and comforting taste, perfect for sipping on a cool evening.
Copperhead
The Copperhead cocktail has a refreshing, slightly sweet, and herbal taste. It is well-balanced, with a hint of citrus and a subtle spicy kick from the ginger.
Americano
The Americano has a complex and bittersweet taste, with herbal and citrus notes. It is refreshing, slightly bitter, and mildly sweet, making it a perfect balance of flavors.
Vieux Carré
The Vieux Carré is a complex and well-balanced cocktail with a smooth, rich taste. It has a hint of sweetness from the cognac and herbal notes from the Bénédictine. The rye whiskey adds a spicy kick, while the vermouth and bitters provide a slightly bitter undertone.
Blood and Sand
The Blood and Sand cocktail has a well-balanced, rich, and complex flavor profile. It is both sweet and sour, with a hint of smokiness from the Scotch whisky. The orange juice adds a refreshing citrus note, while the sweet vermouth and cherry liqueur provide a smooth, velvety sweetness.
Pina Colada
The Piña Colada is a sweet, creamy, and fruity cocktail with a smooth texture. The flavors of pineapple and coconut blend harmoniously, creating a tropical taste sensation. The rum adds a subtle warmth and depth to the drink.
Mint Julep
The Mint Julep has a refreshing, sweet, and slightly minty taste. It is a well-balanced cocktail with a strong bourbon backbone and a cooling, herbal finish.
Moscow Mule
The Moscow Mule is a refreshing, slightly spicy, and tangy cocktail with a hint of sweetness. The combination of vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice creates a well-balanced and invigorating flavor profile.