The Classic Grasshopper Cocktail: Minty, Creamy, and Timeless
Silky swirled layers and creamy texture make this retro drink a dreamy dessert cocktail.
The Grasshopper Cocktail: A Retro Mint-Chocolate Classic
Few cocktails capture the spirit of playful sophistication quite like the Grasshopper. With its unmistakable minty green hue, silky-creamy texture, and blend of chocolate and mint, the Grasshopper has endured as a post-dinner favorite for decades. Whether you discovered it in a stylish supper club, a cozy New Orleans bar, or a friend’s living room, this iconic drink is as fun to serve as it is to sip.
What Is a Grasshopper Cocktail?
The Grasshopper is a sweet, creamy, and minty cocktail that combines equal parts green crème de menthe, white crème de cacao, and heavy cream. Served in a chilled coupe or martini glass, its pale green color and dessert-like charm have made it a beloved after-dinner drink, especially for those who can’t resist a chocolate-mint treat.
- Flavor profile: Sweet and vibrant with pronounced mint and chocolate notes, softened by the cream.
- Texture: Smooth and luxurious, almost reminiscent of a grown-up milkshake.
- Occasion: Perfect as an after-dinner or celebratory cocktail. Especially popular on St. Patrick’s Day or as a special retro treat.
The History and Origin of the Grasshopper
The origins of the Grasshopper can be traced to the early 1900s in New Orleans. The cocktail was crafted by the owner of Tujague’s, an historic restaurant in the city’s famed French Quarter. Seeking something unique and festive, the creator entered the drink into a New York cocktail competition, where it earned second place and quickly returned home to become a Crescent City staple. Its name is a nod to the cocktail’s vibrant green color, reminiscent of the insect’s hues and perfectly matching the playful spirit of New Orleans nightlife.
Grasshopper Cocktail Ingredients
This cocktail shines in its simplicity, featuring just three core ingredients and a garnish. Here’s what you need to make two Grasshoppers at home:
- 4 oz. heavy cream – For that ultra-creamy mouthfeel.
- 2 oz. white crème de cacao – Delivers rich, sweet chocolate flavor.
- 2 oz. green crème de menthe – Provides the minty freshness and signature color.
- 6 chocolate-covered mint candies (such as Junior Mints) – Optional, but makes for a striking garnish.
- Optional: Fresh mint leaves, chocolate shavings, or a chocolate syrup drizzle for alternate garnish options.
Step-by-Step: How to Make a Grasshopper Cocktail
Creating this classic couldn’t be easier. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Garnish prep: Thread 3 chocolate-covered mint candies onto an extra-long toothpick by gently twisting. Repeat with the remaining candies for a second garnish skewer.
- Shake: Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice. Add the heavy cream, white crème de cacao, and green crème de menthe.
- Mix: Place the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds, until the outside of the shaker feels very cold.
- Serve: Strain the mixture into two chilled coupe or martini glasses.
- Garnish: Rest a mint candy skewer across the top of each glass—or use your garnish of choice.
Visual Guide: Instructions at a Glance
| Step | Action | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Thread candies on toothpicks | Prepare garnish |
| 2 | Add cream, cacao, and menthe to shaker with ice | Combine ingredients |
| 3 | Shake 15–20 seconds | Chill and mix evenly |
| 4 | Strain into chilled glasses | Presentation |
| 5 | Garnish and serve | Finishing touch |
Garnish Ideas and Creative Twists
The Grasshopper’s simplicity leaves plenty of room for creative flair. Here are several fun ways to make your drink stand out even more:
- Chocolate shavings: Add a sprinkle of shaved dark or milk chocolate for extra aroma and taste.
- Fresh mint leaf: A single sprig or leaf instantly signals the drink’s minty nature.
- Drizzle of chocolate syrup: Line the inside of the glass or drizzle over the top for a dessert-like vibe.
- No garnish: Keep it classic and let the pastel green color speak for itself.
What others are reading
Feel free to experiment with whatever mint-chocolate garnishes appeal to you—or keep things delightfully uncomplicated!
Recipe Variations: Grasshopper with a Twist
- White Grasshopper: Substitute white crème de menthe for the green version. The flavor stays the same but the color becomes creamy-white instead of green. While less dramatic, it’s just as delicious and might suit certain occasions.
- Frozen Grasshopper: Blend the three classic ingredients with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and ice cubes for a milkshake-style cocktail. Great as a dessert drink in the summer or for guests who want something extra chilly and rich.
- Grasshopper Pie: Inspired by the drink, this dessert combines the same flavors—creme de menthe, creme de cacao, cream—but transforms them into a no-bake, minty-chocolate pie. It’s an ideal make-ahead dessert for parties or holidays.
Tips for the Perfect Grasshopper
- Chill your glasses: Store your coupe or martini glasses in the freezer for at least 10 minutes before pouring. This preserves the cocktail’s cold, creamy sensation.
- Shake, don’t stir: Vigorously shaking with lots of ice is essential. It aerates the cream, ensures the drink is properly blended, and makes it frothy and luscious.
- Opt for quality liqueurs: Fresh and well-stored crème de menthe and crème de cacao make a big difference in flavor and aroma.
- Use heavy cream: Don’t substitute with milk or half-and-half, unless you prefer a thinner consistency and lighter taste.
Serving Suggestions and Occasions
- After dinner: The Grasshopper’s sweetness and creaminess make it an ideal dessert cocktail. It’s especially popular after hearty meals or as a palate cleanser after spicy dishes.
- Holidays: The green color makes it a festive favorite for St. Patrick’s Day, Christmas, and themed celebrations.
- Retro parties: Perfect for 1960s or supper club-themed evenings—serve with other classic cocktails for extra nostalgia.
- Pairings: Try with classic desserts such as brownies, mint chocolate pie, or chocolate mousse. The Grasshopper also stands on its own as a nightcap.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What’s the difference between green and white crème de menthe?
Both provide the same minty, sweet flavor. Green crème de menthe gives the Grasshopper its signature color; white crème de menthe will leave the drink a creamy white shade. The choice is purely aesthetic.
Can I substitute the cream for another ingredient?
Heavy cream is classic, but half-and-half or even full-fat coconut milk may be used for a lighter or nondairy drink. This may alter both consistency and flavor.
Is the Grasshopper a strong cocktail?
Not especially—both crème de menthe and crème de cacao are lower-proof liqueurs, and the heavy cream further dilutes the alcohol intensity. It’s designed to be enjoyed slowly after a meal.
What’s the best way to batch Grasshoppers for a party?
Mix equal parts cream, green crème de menthe, and white crème de cacao in a pitcher and chill. When ready to serve, shake with ice and strain into individual glasses for each guest, garnishing as desired.
Can I make a nonalcoholic version?
For a nonalcoholic “mocktail,” use mint syrup (or crème de menthe syrup) and chocolate syrup in place of the liqueurs, plus cream or milk. Shake and serve just as you would the original.
What is Grasshopper Pie and how is it related?
Grasshopper Pie is a dessert inspired by the flavors and color of the classic cocktail. It typically mixes crème de menthe, crème de cacao, cream, and marshmallows into a chocolate cookie crust for a no-bake, frozen treat.
Are there other drinks similar to the Grasshopper?
Variations abound: try the Frozen Grasshopper (with ice cream), the Grasshopper Milkshake (with cookies), or experiment with adding coffee or espresso for a mocha-mint twist.
More Classic and Seasonal Cocktails to Try
- Pumpkin Spice Martini: Rich, creamy, and full of autumnal flavor.
- Blueberry Mojito: A fruity twist on the mojito, perfect for summer afternoons.
- Frozen Espresso Martini: Coffee lovers’ answer to dessert-in-a-glass.
- Blackberry Smash Sweet Tea: Sweet, tart, and refreshing for warmer weather.
Grasshopper Cocktail Recipe (Printable)
| Ingredient | Quantity (per 2 cocktails) |
|---|---|
| Heavy Cream | 4 oz. |
| White Crème de Cacao | 2 oz. |
| Green Crème de Menthe | 2 oz. |
| Chocolate-Covered Mint Candies | 6 (for garnish) |
- Thread 3 candies onto each of 2 extra-long toothpicks for garnish.
- Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice, then add cream, crème de cacao, and crème de menthe.
- Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds until chilled.
- Strain into 2 chilled coupe or martini glasses.
- Garnish with the candy skewers and enjoy immediately.
Final Thoughts: Why the Grasshopper Endures
The Grasshopper has earned its reputation as a retro classic because it brings both fun and flavor to any occasion. Its dessert-like profile, stunning color, and easy preparation ensure its place in the pantheon of beloved cocktails. Whether you’re sipping it after a meal, serving it at a holiday gathering, or introducing it to cocktail newbies, the Grasshopper is as inviting now as it was a century ago.
References
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a63655912/grasshopper-cocktail-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a12009/grasshopper-pie/
- https://feastandwest.com/frozen-grasshopper-drink/
- http://www.slice-of-heaven.com/blog-home/grasshopper-milkshake-cocktail
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/st-patricks-day/
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