Grasshopper Recipe: If you’re looking for a minty, creamy, and incredibly smooth cocktail that tastes just like dessert, the Grasshopper is your perfect match.
Known for its bright green color and deliciously sweet flavor, this retro drink has been making a comeback—and for a good reason.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make the perfect Grasshopper cocktail at home, from ingredients and equipment to step-by-step mixing and fun variations.
What is a Grasshopper Drink?
A Grasshopper is a classic cocktail that’s equal parts refreshing and indulgent. It’s made with just three main ingredients: crème de menthe, crème de cacao, and heavy cream. The result? A creamy, mint-chocolate treat in a glass that goes down almost too easily.
This cocktail is typically served in a chilled cocktail or coupe glass and is known for its striking green color, which comes from the crème de menthe. It’s the kind of drink that’s perfect for after-dinner sipping or serving at festive parties. It’s sweet, it’s light, and it brings a dessert-like finish to your evening.
Despite its sweetness, the Grasshopper is surprisingly balanced. The mint flavor isn’t overpowering; instead, it dances smoothly with the creamy texture and chocolatey undertones. Think of it as the drinkable version of a Thin Mint cookie—yes, it’s that good.
What makes the Grasshopper unique is its simplicity. With just three ingredients, you don’t need to be a mixology master to pull this off. It’s approachable, affordable, and undeniably tasty.
A Brief History of the Grasshopper
The origins of the Grasshopper date back to the early 20th century, specifically to the French Quarter in New Orleans. This cocktail was reportedly invented at Tujague’s, a historic bar and restaurant, sometime around the 1910s. Philibert Guichet, the owner at the time, created the drink for a cocktail competition in New York City—and it won second place!
Since then, the Grasshopper has become a staple in Southern hospitality and retro cocktail culture. It was especially popular during the 1950s and 60s, when after-dinner cocktails were a big deal. Even though it briefly faded into obscurity, the resurgence of vintage cocktails in recent years has brought it back into the spotlight.
Its name, “Grasshopper,” is obviously inspired by its vivid green color. But don’t worry—there are no actual insects involved. Just a smooth, minty experience that feels both nostalgic and refreshing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Primary Ingredients
To create the perfect Grasshopper cocktail, you only need three simple but powerful ingredients:
- Crème de Menthe (Green) – This is the star of the show. It gives the Grasshopper its signature minty flavor and eye-catching green color. Opt for a high-quality brand to avoid overly artificial tastes.
- Crème de Cacao (White) – This sweet chocolate liqueur adds depth and richness to the drink. The white version is typically used to maintain that bright green hue.
- Heavy Cream – Cream adds the lush, velvety texture that makes this cocktail a dessert in a glass. You can also substitute it with half-and-half for a slightly lighter version, but for maximum indulgence, stick with heavy cream.
These three ingredients work in harmony to produce a cocktail that’s smooth, sweet, and sophisticated. Each component plays a role in balancing out the others—no one flavor overpowers the mix.
Here’s a standard recipe ratio to follow:
- 1 oz crème de menthe
- 1 oz crème de cacao
- 1 oz heavy cream
This 1:1:1 ratio makes it super easy to remember and scale depending on how many servings you need.
Optional Add-Ins and Garnishes
Want to take your Grasshopper to the next level? Here are some popular add-ins and garnishes:
- Mint Leaves – Add a sprig of fresh mint on top for an aromatic finish.
- Shaved Chocolate or Cocoa Powder – Sprinkle a bit on top for a visual and flavorful treat.
- Whipped Cream – For an ultra-luxurious touch, top it off with a dollop of whipped cream.
- Chocolate Syrup Drizzle – Line the inside of your glass for a beautiful and tasty presentation.
- Ice Cream – Not traditional, but definitely delicious if you’re blending your drink instead of shaking.
These garnishes aren’t necessary, but they do elevate the experience, especially if you’re making this cocktail for guests or special occasions. Presentation is half the fun with a drink as vibrant as the Grasshopper.
Equipment Required
Bar Tools You’ll Need
Making a Grasshopper is simple, but having the right tools makes the process even smoother:
- Cocktail Shaker – Essential for chilling and blending the ingredients thoroughly.
- Jigger or Measuring Tool – To ensure accurate proportions.
- Strainer – To get that smooth, frothy finish without ice shards in your glass.
- Mixing Glass (optional) – If you’re stirring instead of shaking (though shaking is preferred for this creamy cocktail).
If you’re just getting into home bartending, a basic cocktail shaker set will do the trick. The Grasshopper is a great drink to practice with—it’s low-effort but high-reward.
Glassware Options
Traditionally, the Grasshopper is served in a coupe glass or a martini glass. These glasses highlight the color and allow for a clean, elegant presentation.
Here are some glassware ideas:
- Coupe Glass – Offers a wide brim for garnish and looks classy.
- Martini Glass – The most iconic choice; perfect for a sleek presentation.
- Stemless Cocktail Glass – A modern, casual option if you’re going for a laid-back vibe.
Whatever glass you choose, make sure it’s chilled before pouring in your cocktail. A cold glass keeps the drink at the right temperature and enhances the overall experience.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Chill the Glass
This might seem like a minor step, but trust me—it makes a big difference. A well-chilled glass not only keeps your drink cold longer but also helps maintain the creamy consistency of your Grasshopper cocktail.
Start by placing your glass in the freezer for at least 10–15 minutes before you begin mixing. If you’re short on time, you can also fill the glass with ice water and let it sit while you prepare the drink. Just be sure to dump the ice water out and quickly wipe the glass dry before pouring.
Why is chilling important? Because when you serve a cocktail with dairy, like cream, temperature plays a critical role. A warm glass could cause the cream to warm up too fast, altering the smooth texture and making it less enjoyable. Plus, a chilled glass makes your presentation look extra crisp and polished.
This small effort pays off in a big way—don’t skip it.
Step 2 – Measure and Mix Ingredients
This is where the magic starts happening. Once you’ve got your glass chilling, it’s time to measure out your ingredients. Precision is key here—even though it’s a simple recipe, balance is everything.
Grab your jigger or measuring tool and pour:
- 1 oz crème de menthe
- 1 oz crème de cacao (white)
- 1 oz heavy cream
Pour all three ingredients directly into your cocktail shaker. If you’re feeling creative, now’s the time to throw in any additional flavors. A tiny splash of vanilla extract can add depth. Or maybe a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon if you’re serving it during the holidays.
If you’re watching your calorie intake, you can substitute the heavy cream with light cream or half-and-half, though you’ll sacrifice a bit of that rich mouthfeel. Vegans can even try coconut cream or oat milk creamer, which pairs surprisingly well with mint and chocolate.
Once all your ingredients are in the shaker, it’s time to shake things up—literally.
Step 3 – Shake It Up
This step is where your cocktail goes from basic to beautiful. Add a generous handful of ice cubes into your shaker and seal it tight. Now, shake it like you mean it—for at least 20 to 30 seconds.
You want the shaker to be cold to the touch, almost painfully so. That’s your sign the drink is fully chilled and properly mixed.
Shaking not only chills the drink but also adds a little frothy texture to the cream, making the final pour smooth and luscious. It also dilutes the cocktail just a touch, which helps mellow out the sweetness and makes each sip more enjoyable.
If you’re using a clear shaker, you’ll notice the mixture turns a pastel green with a slight foam at the top—that’s exactly what you want. The goal is a silky, blended cocktail that looks as good as it tastes.
Step 4 – Strain and Serve
Once you’ve shaken your drink thoroughly, it’s time for the big moment—pouring and presenting.
Remove your chilled glass from the freezer or dump the ice water you used earlier. Use a cocktail strainer to pour your Grasshopper into the glass, being careful not to let any ice shards slip through. The result should be a smooth, vibrant green drink with a creamy consistency and no lumps.
Now, for the fun part—garnishing! You can keep it simple with a mint leaf or go wild with a swirl of whipped cream and chocolate shavings. Here are a few ideas to dress up your drink:
- A rim of crushed chocolate cookies for a dessert-like twist.
- A drizzle of chocolate syrup inside the glass for a swirled effect.
- A candy cane or mini chocolate bar for a playful holiday vibe.
Serve immediately and enjoy every minty-chocolate sip.
This step is your chance to get creative and wow your guests—or just treat yourself like royalty. Either way, presentation is key, and the Grasshopper is a drink that loves to show off.
Grasshopper Recipe Variations
Frozen Grasshopper
Want to turn this drink into a frosty dessert treat? The frozen Grasshopper is where it’s at. All you need to do is blend the ingredients with a scoop of ice cream instead of shaking them with cream.
Here’s a quick frozen Grasshopper recipe:
- 1 oz crème de menthe
- 1 oz crème de cacao
- 1 scoop vanilla ice cream
- Optional: ½ cup of crushed ice
Blend until smooth, pour into a tall glass, and garnish with whipped cream or chocolate drizzle. It’s the perfect cocktail-dessert hybrid—cool, creamy, and crazy delicious.
This version is fantastic for hot summer nights or festive celebrations when you want to serve something a bit more indulgent.
Grasshopper with Ice Cream
Yes, you heard right. The Grasshopper isn’t just for sipping—it’s also for scooping. For an ultra-decadent twist, blend your ingredients with a generous helping of ice cream. This turns the cocktail into a boozy milkshake that’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Here’s how to do it:
- 1 oz crème de menthe
- 1 oz crème de cacao
- 2 scoops vanilla or mint chocolate chip ice cream
- Blend until creamy and smooth
- Serve in a milkshake glass with a straw
Add a cherry on top if you’re feeling fancy. This version is rich, satisfying, and perfect for dessert lovers who want a cocktail with a little extra something.
Tips for Making the Perfect Grasshopper
Use High-Quality Ingredients
The Grasshopper may only have three ingredients, but that means each one plays a major role in the final flavor. Investing in high-quality liqueurs will significantly elevate your drink.
- Crème de Menthe: Choose a brand that uses natural mint extracts rather than artificial flavoring. Natural mint delivers a more refreshing and balanced flavor.
- Crème de Cacao: Opt for a white crème de cacao to maintain the vibrant green color of the cocktail. Look for brands that use real cocoa in their distillation.
- Heavy Cream: Go with fresh heavy cream over pre-mixed or shelf-stable varieties. You’ll get a silkier mouthfeel and a more luxurious taste.
Cutting corners with cheap liqueurs might save you a few bucks, but you’ll lose out on the drink’s rich, balanced flavor profile.
Mind Your Ratios
The classic Grasshopper uses a 1:1:1 ratio, but feel free to tweak it based on your preferences. Here are a few ideas:
- Like it less sweet? Use a bit less crème de menthe and add more cream.
- Want more chocolate? Add an extra splash of crème de cacao.
- Prefer it lighter? Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a dairy-free creamer.
It’s your cocktail, so make it suit your taste. Just make sure to keep the balance between mint, chocolate, and cream in mind.
Presentation Is Key
The Grasshopper is one of those cocktails that deserves to be dressed up. A few small presentation tweaks can turn your homemade drink into something worthy of a high-end bar.
- Chilled Glasses: Keep your drink colder longer and make it look frosty and elegant.
- Color Contrast: Use a white garnish like whipped cream or a pale mint leaf to create a contrast against the green drink.
- Layering: Want to get fancy? Gently float the cream on top of the liqueurs to create a layered effect—perfect for showing off your bartending skills.
These little touches go a long way, especially if you’re making Grasshoppers for a party or special occasion.
Grasshopper Cocktail Pairings
Best Foods to Serve with a Grasshopper
Since the Grasshopper is rich, creamy, and dessert-like, it pairs well with other sweet treats or as a standalone dessert drink.
Here are a few tasty ideas to serve alongside your Grasshopper:
- Chocolate Fondue – Dipping strawberries, marshmallows, and cookies in chocolate enhances the drink’s minty chocolate notes.
- Cheesecake – Mint and chocolate flavors beautifully complement a rich, creamy cheesecake.
- Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies – Double down on the flavor theme with some matching cookies.
- Tiramisu or Cream Puffs – Light, creamy desserts pair well without overshadowing the cocktail’s bold flavors.
Avoid pairing it with salty or spicy foods—the sweetness of the drink will clash with strong, savory flavors.
When to Serve a Grasshopper
Occasions Perfect for This Retro Classic
The Grasshopper isn’t your average cocktail. Its distinct flavor and visual flair make it perfect for a few specific occasions.
- Holiday Parties: With its festive green hue, the Grasshopper is ideal for Christmas or St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
- Dinner Parties: Serve it as a dessert drink to leave a lasting impression on your guests.
- Girls’ Night In: It’s sweet, fun, and easy to make—a perfect drink for a cozy night with friends.
- Date Night: Want to impress your partner with something different? A homemade Grasshopper will do the trick.
Because it’s so unique, this cocktail is a great way to mix things up and introduce your guests (or yourself!) to something nostalgic and delightful.
Grasshopper Mocktail Version
How to Make a Non-Alcoholic Grasshopper
If you love the taste of a Grasshopper but want to skip the alcohol, a mocktail version is totally doable—and just as delicious.
Here’s a simple recipe:
- 1 oz mint syrup
- 1 oz chocolate syrup
- 1 oz heavy cream (or any plant-based creamer)
- Ice
Shake all the ingredients in a shaker with ice, then strain into a chilled glass. Garnish with a mint leaf or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for the full experience.
The result is a rich, sweet, minty drink that’s kid-friendly, driver-safe, and pregnancy-approved. You still get all the dessert-like goodness, minus the booze.
Storing and Batch-Making Tips
Can You Make a Grasshopper in Advance?
Yes—but with a few caveats.
If you’re planning a party, you can mix larger quantities of crème de menthe and crème de cacao ahead of time. Store the mix in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. But don’t add the cream until you’re ready to shake and serve. Mixing cream ahead of time can lead to separation and spoilage.
For best results:
- Mix the liqueurs and refrigerate.
- Add the cream and ice to a shaker when ready.
- Shake fresh for each guest.
This method ensures the texture remains silky and the drink tastes just right.
FAQs about Grasshopper Recipe
Q1: What is a Grasshopper drink made of?
A Grasshopper drink is a sweet, minty cocktail made with crème de menthe (green mint liqueur), crème de cacao (chocolate liqueur), and heavy cream. It’s typically served chilled in a cocktail glass.
Q2: Does a Grasshopper cocktail contain alcohol?
Yes, it contains alcohol. Both crème de menthe and crème de cacao are liqueurs, which means they have a relatively low alcohol content compared to spirits, but the drink is still alcoholic.
Q3: What does a Grasshopper drink taste like?
The Grasshopper drink has a creamy, dessert-like taste with strong mint and chocolate flavors. It’s often compared to a mint chocolate chip milkshake for adults.
Q4: Can I make a non-alcoholic Grasshopper drink?
Absolutely! You can create a mocktail version by using mint syrup, chocolate syrup, and heavy cream or milk. Blend with ice for a milkshake-like treat.
Q5: Is the Grasshopper drink served hot or cold?
It is always served cold—either shaken with ice and strained into a cocktail glass or blended with ice for a frozen variation.
Q6: Can I use milk instead of cream in the Grasshopper recipe?
Yes, you can substitute milk for a lighter version, but using heavy cream gives the drink its signature rich and velvety texture.
Q7: When is the best time to serve a Grasshopper cocktail?
It’s perfect as an after-dinner drink or dessert cocktail, especially at parties or during holidays when you want something festive and indulgent.
Q8: What garnish works best for a Grasshopper drink?
Popular garnishes include chocolate shavings, a mint sprig, or even a rim of crushed cookies or cocoa powder for an extra treat.
Q9: Can I make a batch of Grasshopper cocktails in advance?
Yes, you can pre-mix the liqueurs and cream, then store in the fridge. Just shake with ice right before serving for the best texture and chill.
Q10: Is the Grasshopper drink gluten-free?
Generally, yes. Most crème de menthe and crème de cacao brands are gluten-free, but always check the labels to be certain.
Conclusion
The Grasshopper cocktail is more than just a retro novelty—it’s a timeless dessert drink that’s easy to make and endlessly satisfying. Whether you’re serving it shaken, frozen, or blended with ice cream, it’s bound to be a hit with anyone who enjoys mint and chocolate flavors.
Its simple 1:1:1 recipe makes it beginner-friendly, while the rich taste and vibrant green color keep it exciting. Whether you’re sipping it after dinner or serving it at your next party, the Grasshopper is guaranteed to impress.
So, grab your shaker, chill your glass, and get ready to whip up a drink that’s as fun as it is delicious. Cheers to bringing back a classic—one sip at a time!
