Grasshopper Cocktail Drink

Grasshopper

A shot of Gavin Wrigley looking to the camera in a dimly lit room
Written by Gavin Wrigley
Andrea
Tested by
Andrea Ottaiano

It’s easy to make, and this Grasshopper Drink recipe combines crème de menthe, crème de cacao, and heavy cream for a refreshing cocktail.

Grasshopper Drink Recipe

Satisfy your sweet tooth with this straightforward Grasshopper Drink recipe! Combining crème de menthe, crème de cacao, and heavy cream, it's the ultimate after-dinner treat or guilty pleasure.

Prep time:

1 minute

Mixing time:

1 minute

Servings:

1

Calories:

300 kl

Ingredients

  • 1 oz Crème de Menthe
  • 1 oz Crème de Cacao, White
  • 1 oz heavy cream
  • Ice cubes
  • Mint leaves or chocolate shavings, for garnish, optional

Equipment

  • Cocktail Shaker
  • Measuring Jigger
  • Strainer & Fine-strainer
  • Martini Glass or Coupe Glass

Instructions

  • Chill Glass: Place your coupe glass in the freezer for a few hours or ice it up before starting.
  • Add Crème de Cacao: Measure and pour 1 oz Crème de Cacao into the shaker.
  • Add Crème de Menthe: Pour 1 oz Crème de Menthe into the shaker.
  • Add Heavy Cream: Add 1 oz heavy cream to the mix.
  • Prep Shaker: Fill your cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
  • Shake Well: Seal the cocktail shaker and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
  • Strain: Fine strain the mixture into your chilled glass.
  • Garnish: Sprinkle with chocolate shavings or a mint leaf.

Notes

Substitutes:

  • Crème de Menthe: If you're out of crème de menthe, peppermint schnapps can be a decent alternative. I've used it, and it offers a more alcoholic kick but still keeps that minty flavor.
  • Crème de Cacao: No crème de cacao? Try using chocolate liqueur. It’s sweeter and less intense, but it works.
  • Heavy Cream: Half-and-half or even full-fat coconut milk can work if you don't have heavy cream. The texture changes slightly but not dramatically.

Making a Pitcher of Grasshopper Drink:

  • Scale: To serve 8 people, you'll need 8 oz of crème de menthe, 8 oz of crème de cacao, and 8 oz of heavy cream.
  • Mix: In a large pitcher, combine the crème de menthe, crème de cacao, and heavy cream. Stir well.
  • Serve: Strain the mixture into chilled Martini glasses, garnish, and serve immediately.

Making it Non-Alcoholic:

  • Crème de Menthe Substitute: Use a non-alcoholic mint syrup.
  • Crème de Cacao Substitute: Opt for a non-alcoholic chocolate syrup.
  • Proceed As Usual: Use these non-alcoholic substitutes and follow the original steps to enjoy a non-alcoholic Grasshopper Drink.

Making it Vegan:

  • Heavy Cream Substitute: Use a high-fat coconut milk or a vegan cream alternative.
  • Check Labels: Ensure your crème de menthe and crème de cacao are vegan-friendly; some brands use animal-derived products.

Nutrition Facts

Calories
300
% Daily Value*
Fat
 
10
g
15
%
Saturated Fat
 
7
g
44
%
Sodium
 
9
mg
0
%
Carbohydrates
 
28
g
9
%
Sugar
 
21
g
23
%
Potassium
 
27
mg
1
%
Cholesterol
 
32
mg
11
%
Protein
 
1
g
2
%
Polyunsaturated Fat
 
1
g
Monounsaturated Fat
 
3
g
Vitamin A
 
417
IU
8
%
Vitamin C
 
0.2
mg
0
%
Calcium
 
19
mg
2
%
Iron
 
0.1
mg
1
%

 

Grasshopper Cocktail Drink

Grasshopper Drink Recipe

Gavin Wrigley Written by Gavin Wrigley
Jump to Video
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this straightforward Grasshopper Drink recipe! Combining crème de menthe, crème de cacao, and heavy cream, it's the ultimate after-dinner treat or guilty pleasure.
Prep time: 1 minute
Mixing time: 1 minute
Servings: 1
Calories: 300

Ingredients
 

  • 1 oz Crème de Menthe
  • 1 oz Crème de Cacao - White
  • 1 oz heavy cream
  • Ice cubes
  • Mint leaves or chocolate shavings - for garnish, optional

Equipment

  • Cocktail Shaker
  • Measuring Jigger
  • Strainer & Fine-strainer
  • Martini Glass or Coupe Glass

Instructions

  • Chill Glass: Place your coupe glass in the freezer for a few hours or ice it up before starting.
  • Add Crème de Cacao: Measure and pour 1 oz Crème de Cacao into the shaker.
  • Add Crème de Menthe: Pour 1 oz Crème de Menthe into the shaker.
  • Add Heavy Cream: Add 1 oz heavy cream to the mix.
  • Prep Shaker: Fill your cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
  • Shake Well: Seal the cocktail shaker and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
  • Strain: Fine strain the mixture into your chilled glass.
  • Garnish: Sprinkle with chocolate shavings or a mint leaf.

Notes

Substitutes:

  • Crème de Menthe: If you're out of crème de menthe, peppermint schnapps can be a decent alternative. I've used it, and it offers a more alcoholic kick but still keeps that minty flavor.
  • Crème de Cacao: No crème de cacao? Try using chocolate liqueur. It’s sweeter and less intense, but it works.
  • Heavy Cream: Half-and-half or even full-fat coconut milk can work if you don't have heavy cream. The texture changes slightly but not dramatically.

Making a Pitcher of Grasshopper Drink:

  • Scale: To serve 8 people, you'll need 8 oz of crème de menthe, 8 oz of crème de cacao, and 8 oz of heavy cream.
  • Mix: In a large pitcher, combine the crème de menthe, crème de cacao, and heavy cream. Stir well.
  • Serve: Strain the mixture into chilled Martini glasses, garnish, and serve immediately.

Making it Non-Alcoholic:

  • Crème de Menthe Substitute: Use a non-alcoholic mint syrup.
  • Crème de Cacao Substitute: Opt for a non-alcoholic chocolate syrup.
  • Proceed As Usual: Use these non-alcoholic substitutes and follow the original steps to enjoy a non-alcoholic Grasshopper Drink.

Making it Vegan:

  • Heavy Cream Substitute: Use a high-fat coconut milk or a vegan cream alternative.
  • Check Labels: Ensure your crème de menthe and crème de cacao are vegan-friendly; some brands use animal-derived products.

What is a Grasshopper Drink?

Grasshopper Drink is a dessert cocktail with crème de menthe, crème de cacao, and heavy cream. Known for its creamy texture and mint-chocolate flavor profile, the Grasshopper has been a beloved choice for those looking for a sweeter end to their meal. Despite its luxurious taste, you don’t need to be a mixologist to appreciate a well-made Grasshopper. The fact that it’s wearing the badge of an IBA certification is a testament to its timeless allure and classic taste in the world of mixology.

A side shot of a Grasshopper cocktail in a martini glass with a mint sprig on a black stone plate placed on a green table with a shaker on the background.

What is a Grasshopper Drink made of – The ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare a Grasshopper Drink:

  • Crème de Menthe: Provides the minty flavor that defines the cocktail.
  • Crème de Cacao: Adds a chocolatey undertone to balance the mint.
  • Heavy Cream: Gives the drink its creamy texture and rich mouthfeel.

Crème de Menthe, Crème de Cacao and heavy cream laid out on a white bar table

How do you make a Grasshopper Drink?

Follow our guide for step-by-step instructions on crafting a Grasshopper Drink:

1
<p>Place your coupe glass in the freezer for a few hours to chill it or ice it up with ice cubes before starting.</p>

Place your coupe glass in the freezer for a few hours to chill it or ice it up with ice cubes before starting.

2
<p>Add 1 oz of crème de cacao to the shaker, introducing a chocolatey balance to the mint.</p>

Add 1 oz of crème de cacao to the shaker, introducing a chocolatey balance to the mint.

3
<p>Pour 1 oz of crème de menthe into the ice-filled shaker to give the drink its minty kick.</p>

Pour 1 oz of crème de menthe into the ice-filled shaker to give the drink its minty kick.

4
<p>Complete the trio of flavors by adding 1 oz of heavy cream to the shaker.</p>

Complete the trio of flavors by adding 1 oz of heavy cream to the shaker.

5
<p>Fill the cocktail shaker with ice cubes to cool the ingredients as you mix them.</p>

Fill the cocktail shaker with ice cubes to cool the ingredients as you mix them.

6
<p>Seal the cocktail shaker.</p>

Seal the cocktail shaker.

7
<p>Shake the ingredients vigorously for 15-20 seconds, blending them well.</p>

Shake the ingredients vigorously for 15-20 seconds, blending them well.

8
<p>Use a strainer to pour the shaken mixture into the chilled Coupe glass, keeping out the ice.</p>

Use a strainer to pour the shaken mixture into the chilled Coupe glass, keeping out the ice.

9
<p>Enjoy your Grasshopper drink!</p>

Enjoy your Grasshopper drink!

Frozen Grasshopper Drink with Ice Cream

Grasshopper with ice cream is a dessert cocktail that combines the traditional ingredients of a Grasshopper—crème de menthe and crème de cacao—with ice cream for added richness and texture. This version turns the classic Grasshopper Drink into a thicker, more indulgent drink, ideal for sipping as a decadent treat. The ice cream gives the drink a milkshake-like consistency, making it even more dessert-like than the original. It’s popular for those who prefer their cocktails on the sweeter and creamier side.

The Flying Grasshopper – Grasshopper Drink with Vodka

Grasshopper with vodka is a variation of the traditional Grasshopper Drink that incorporates vodka for an extra kick of alcohol. The vodka intensifies the drink’s strength without significantly altering its classic mint-chocolate flavor profile. This addition appeals to those who want the dessert-like qualities of a standard Grasshopper but with a stronger alcohol content.

What is a Chocolate Grasshopper Drink?

Chocolate Grasshopper incorporates additional chocolate elements to amplify the classic drink’s cocoa flavors. Typically, this version uses chocolate syrup or liqueur to elevate the chocolate notes, making it a hit for chocolate lovers. The Chocolate Grasshopper retains the minty undertone from the crème de menthe, creating a balanced yet rich flavor profile.

A Grasshopper cocktail, shot from a side, in a martini glass with a mint sprig on a black stone plate placed on a green table and a white wall on the background.

Grasshopper Drink Variations

Wondering about different takes on the Grasshopper Drink? Let us introduce some of our cherished selections:

  • White Grasshopper: This lighter, more delicate take swaps traditional crème de cacao for white crème de cacao. The change lightens the hue while maintaining the chocolatey essence. I appreciate its subtle elegance; it’s like savoring a fine, white chocolate treat.
  • Grasshopper Martini: Served in a martini glass, this presents a more sophisticated and refined experience. Often garnished with mint leaf or chocolate shavings, it’s perfect for elegant occasions. The presentation in a martini glass always catches my eye, making it a favorite for special gatherings.
  • Chocolate Grasshopper: This emphasizes the chocolate aspect more by adding extra crème de cacao or chocolate syrup. It’s a dream for chocolate lovers, enhancing the richness and depth of the flavor.
  • Coffee Grasshopper: Adding a shot of espresso or coffee liqueur brings a delightful blend of coffee, mint, and chocolate flavors. This energizing mix is my go-to for a post-dinner pick-me-up, combining my love for coffee and dessert in one.
  • Coconut Grasshopper: A touch of coconut liqueur adds a tropical flair, mingling well with the mint and chocolate. The coconut brings a unique, exotic twist that I find irresistible, especially in warm weather.
  • Dirty Grasshopper: This includes a shot of espresso, which intensifies the flavor and makes it ideal for coffee aficionados. The addition of espresso adds a robust depth that I find incredibly satisfying.
  • Baileys Grasshopper: Replacing traditional heavy cream with Baileys Irish Cream adds creamy texture and hints of Irish whiskey. The Baileys brings a velvety smoothness that elevates the whole experience.
  • Irish Grasshopper: Incorporating Irish cream liqueur adds richness and a hint of whiskey flavor. This combination makes it more indulgent, offering a delightful balance between mint, chocolate, and the warmth of Irish cream.

History and Origin of the Grasshopper Drink

The Grasshopper Drink has its roots in New Orleans, a city famous for its vibrant cocktail culture. Philibert Guichet, the owner of Tujague’s, a historic restaurant and bar in the French Quarter, is credited with creating this minty, dessert-like cocktail. He concocted the drink for a cocktail competition in New York City in the early 20th century and took home second place. Thrilled with the accolade, he added the cocktail to Tujague’s menu, where it quickly gained popularity.

The Grasshopper’s appealing combination of crème de menthe, crème de cacao, and cream made it a hit, especially as an after-dinner treat. Its vibrant green color, owing to the crème de menthe, and its creamy texture have made it visually and texturally appealing, adding to its allure over the years.

Throughout the decades, the Grasshopper has maintained its status as a beloved Drink, spawning various adaptations that include additional flavors like coffee and hazelnut.

A side shot of a Grasshopper cocktail in a martini glass with a mint sprig on a black stone plate placed on a green table with a shaker on the background.

See More

Did you make this recipe?

We’d love to see how you crafted our recipes!
Tag us on Instagram at @_drinksworld

FAQ

How many calories are in a Grasshopper?
A standard Grasshopper Drink contains approximately 350 calories, depending on the specific brands of liqueurs and cream used.
How strong is the Grasshopper in terms of ABV and proof?
The Grasshopper Drink typically has an ABV of around 24% and is approximately 48 proof, making it relatively light compared to other cocktails.
What types of alcohol are used in a Grasshopper Drink?
The Grasshopper includes crème de menthe and crème de cacao, both of which are liqueurs.
In which glass is the Grasshopper Drink usually served?
The Grasshopper is traditionally served in a Martini glass.
What does a Grasshopper taste like?
A Grasshopper Drink has a creamy texture with a mint-chocolate flavor profile, often described as dessert-like.
What's the ratio of the ingredients?
The classic Grasshopper Drink uses a 1:1:1 ratio of crème de menthe, crème de cacao, and heavy cream.
How is it served in terms of ice or temperature?
The Grasshopper Drink is typically served "up," meaning it's shaken with ice but strained into a glass without ice.

Categories

Types

Flavours

Spirits

Share
Pin
Post
Share
Send
Email

Rate this recipe

I don’t like it

It’s not bad

I like it

I really like it!

I love it!

Comments

Leave a Reply

You could also try...

Select language

The page you are looking at is also available in the following languages:

Recipe Overview

Explore our recipes by the categories below.

By spirit

By type

By flavour

Spirits Overview

Explore our spirits by the categories below.

Types