Brandy Blazer

Pro tips

• Warm the brandy gently over low heat or in a pre-warmed glass before flaming to ensure even ignition and prevent burns.
• Express citrus oils by twisting the peels over the drink's surface—this releases aromatic oils that enhance flavor and aroma.
• Use a long lighter or long match for flaming; keep hands and face at a safe distance from the flame.
• Toast the sugar with the citrus peels briefly before adding brandy to build deeper, caramelized flavors.

Substitutions

• Five Star brandy → cognac or armagnac (higher quality, more complex flavor)
• Sugar lump → demerara sugar or simple syrup (easier to measure and dissolve)

Storage & make-ahead

Brandy Blazer is served immediately after preparation and not intended for storage.

Equipment

bar spoon · long lighter or long match (for flaming) · jigger (for measuring brandy)

How do you safely flame a Brandy Blazer?

Warm the brandy gently first, ignite it in the glass or mixing vessel (away from face), then let flames subside before serving. Always keep a fire extinguisher nearby and never leave the drink unattended while lit.

Can you make a Brandy Blazer without flaming it?

Yes—combine the warmed brandy with sugar and citrus peels in a glass without igniting. You'll lose the theatrical presentation but retain the flavor.

What type of brandy works best?

Premium aged brandies like cognac or armagnac work well, but the recipe calls for Five Star brandy. Use a quality brandy with depth to stand up to the citrus and sugar.

How should citrus peels be prepared?

Use a vegetable peeler or channel knife to remove thin strips of skin (avoiding excess white pith). Express oils over the drink by twisting the peel before adding it.