Grasshopper Cocktail Recipe: Classic Mint-Chocolate Drink

If you've ever wanted to drink dessert, the Grasshopper cocktail is your answer. This legendary New Orleans creation tastes like liquid mint-chocolate ice cream, combining bright green creme de menthe, rich white creme de cacao, and velvety heavy cream into one of the most indulgent after-dinner drinks ever created. The Grasshopper recipe has been delighting guests since 1918, and once you master this classic, you'll understand why it's remained beloved for over a century.

The New Orleans Origin Story

The Grasshopper cocktail was born in the French Quarter of New Orleans around 1918 at Tujague's, one of the city's oldest restaurants and bars. Philip Guichet, the second owner of the establishment, created this minty-sweet concoction for a cocktail competition in New York City. His Grasshopper won second place in the contest, but in the hearts of dessert-cocktail lovers, it became a champion.

Tujague's, which opened in 1856, still stands today at 823 Decatur Street in New Orleans, and they still proudly serve the original Grasshopper recipe. The bar's longevity and the cocktail's enduring popularity speak to the timeless appeal of this mint-chocolate masterpiece.

The Grasshopper became particularly fashionable in the 1950s and 1960s, when creamy, dessert-style cocktails dominated American cocktail culture. While tastes have evolved toward drier, spirit-forward drinks in recent decades, the Grasshopper maintains a devoted following among those who appreciate its unapologetic sweetness and nostalgic charm.

Classic Grasshopper Recipe

The beauty of the Grasshopper lies in its elegant simplicity. With just three ingredients in equal proportions, this recipe is easy to remember and nearly impossible to mess up.

Ingredients

• 1 oz green creme de menthe
• 1 oz white creme de cacao
• 1 oz heavy cream
• Ice cubes
• Fresh mint sprig for garnish
• Optional: shaved dark chocolate for garnish

Instructions

1. Chill your glass: Place a coupe or cocktail glass in the freezer for at least 15 minutes before serving. A well-chilled glass keeps this cream-based cocktail cold longer.

2. Combine ingredients: Add the green creme de menthe, white creme de cacao, and heavy cream to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.

3. Shake vigorously: This is crucial for cream cocktails. Shake hard for 15-20 seconds until the outside of the shaker becomes frosty. You're not just mixing ingredients; you're emulsifying the cream and achieving proper dilution.

4. Strain: Pour through a fine mesh strainer into your chilled coupe glass. This ensures a silky-smooth texture free of ice shards.

5. Garnish: Top with a fresh mint sprig or dust with finely shaved dark chocolate for an elegant presentation.

Pro Tips

• Equal parts simplicity: The 1:1:1 ratio makes this recipe foolproof and easy to scale up
• Shake timing matters: Under-shaking leaves the drink unintegrated; over-shaking can make it watery
• Glass choice: A coupe glass showcases the vibrant green color beautifully
• Temperature: All ingredients should be cold before shaking for optimal results

Understanding Your Liqueurs

The quality of your liqueurs significantly impacts the final Grasshopper recipe. Let's break down what makes each component essential.

Creme de Menthe: Green vs White

Creme de menthe is a sweet mint liqueur that's the heart of the Grasshopper. It comes in two varieties, and your choice affects both appearance and subtle flavor notes.

Green Creme de Menthe: The traditional choice that gives the Grasshopper its iconic bright green color and its name (the drink resembles the color of a grasshopper). The green color comes from added food coloring and doesn't affect the taste. Popular brands include Bols, Hiram Walker, and Giffard Menthe-Pastille.

White Creme de Menthe: Functionally identical in flavor to green, but clear in appearance. Using white creme de menthe creates a pale, creamy-colored Grasshopper with a more elegant, sophisticated presentation. Some modern bartenders prefer this for a cleaner aesthetic.

Flavor profile: Quality creme de menthe should taste like fresh mint with balanced sweetness, not like toothpaste. The alcohol base varies by brand (typically neutral grain spirits or cognac-based), which can add subtle complexity.

Pro tip: Store creme de menthe in the refrigerator after opening to preserve its fresh mint character.

White Creme de Cacao

White creme de cacao is a clear chocolate liqueur that provides the essential chocolate component without darkening the drink's color.

Why white, not dark?: Dark creme de cacao would turn your bright green Grasshopper an unappealing brown color. White creme de cacao delivers all the chocolate flavor while maintaining the cocktail's signature appearance.

Quality matters: Premium brands like Giffard, Tempus Fugit, or Marie Brizard offer more authentic chocolate flavor compared to budget options. You should taste real cocoa, not artificial chocolate flavoring.

Alternatives: In a pinch, you can use regular dark creme de cacao if you don't mind a darker, less vibrant final color.

The Importance of Cream Quality

Heavy cream (also called heavy whipping cream) is essential for the proper texture and mouthfeel of your Grasshopper.

Why heavy cream?: With 36-40% fat content, heavy cream creates a luxurious, silky texture and helps emulsify the drink when shaken. It's the foundation of the Grasshopper's dessert-like quality.

Alternatives that work:

• Half-and-half: Creates a lighter, less indulgent version
• Whole milk: Too thin; produces a watery Grasshopper
• Coconut cream: Excellent dairy-free option with complementary flavor
• Oat cream: Another good vegan alternative

Fresh is best: Use fresh cream, not ultra-pasteurized if possible, for the best flavor and texture.

Why Shaking Technique Matters for Cream Drinks

Cream-based cocktails require specific shaking techniques that differ from spirit-forward drinks. Understanding why will help you make better Grasshoppers every time.

The Science of Emulsification

When you shake a Grasshopper vigorously, you're creating an emulsion - temporarily suspending fat molecules from the cream throughout the liquid. This creates the signature smooth, uniform texture that makes the drink so pleasant.

What happens when you shake:

1. Ice rapidly chills all ingredients
2. Agitation breaks cream into tiny droplets
3. Fat molecules temporarily suspend in the liquid
4. Proper dilution from melting ice balances sweetness
5. Air incorporates, creating a light, frothy texture

The Hard Shake Method

For the Grasshopper recipe, employ what bartenders call a "hard shake":

Technique:

• Fill shaker 2/3 full with ice
• Add all ingredients
• Seal tightly and shake with both hands
• Use your entire arm and shoulder, not just your wrist
• Shake horizontally with aggressive back-and-forth motion
• Continue for 15-20 seconds until shaker is frosty
• Listen for the sound to change from sloshing to thicker movement

Why it matters: A weak shake leaves the drink unintegrated with cream floating separately. A proper hard shake creates a cohesive, luxurious cocktail where all flavors blend seamlessly.

The Perfect After-Dinner Context

The Grasshopper isn't a cocktail you order to start your evening - it's a nightcap, a dessert replacement, a sweet finale to a meal.

When to Serve Grasshoppers

After-dinner excellence: The Grasshopper's sweet, creamy profile makes it perfect for concluding a meal, especially savory dinners. It cleanses the palate and satisfies the post-dinner sweet tooth without the heaviness of traditional desserts.

Holiday gatherings: Its festive green color makes it ideal for Christmas, St. Patrick's Day, or mint-chocolate themed parties.

Brunch cocktails: Served alongside coffee and pastries, a Grasshopper feels right at home on a brunch menu.

Dessert pairings: Rather than replacing dessert, pair a Grasshopper with:

• Dark chocolate desserts
• Chocolate mousse
• Mint chocolate chip ice cream
• Brownies
• Chocolate truffles

The Digestif Tradition

In classic cocktail culture, the Grasshopper falls into the category of "digestifs" - drinks meant to aid digestion after a meal. While the science on digestifs is mixed, the ritual of ending a meal with a sophisticated sweet drink remains deeply satisfying.

The combination of mint (traditionally thought to soothe the stomach) and the lower alcohol content compared to straight spirits makes the Grasshopper a gentle way to close an evening of dining.

Frozen Grasshopper Variation

In the 1950s and 60s, the frozen Grasshopper became even more popular than the shaken original, particularly in warmer climates. This blended version transforms the cocktail into a mint-chocolate milkshake for adults.

Frozen Grasshopper Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 oz green creme de menthe
• 1 oz white creme de cacao
• 2 oz heavy cream (or vanilla ice cream)
• 1 cup crushed ice (or omit if using ice cream)
• Optional: 1 scoop vanilla ice cream for extra richness

Instructions:

1. Add all ingredients to a blender
2. Blend on high until smooth and thick (20-30 seconds)
3. Pour into a chilled coupe or hurricane glass
4. Garnish with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and a mint sprig
5. Serve immediately with a straw

When to choose frozen: Perfect for summer entertaining, poolside cocktails, or when you want something even more dessert-like than the original.

Why It's Mint-Chocolate in a Glass

The Grasshopper cocktail has often been described as "mint-chocolate ice cream in a glass," and this comparison is remarkably accurate.

The Flavor Profile Breakdown

Primary flavors:

• Cool, refreshing mint from the creme de menthe
• Rich, sweet chocolate from the white creme de cacao
• Creamy, dairy richness from heavy cream

Texture: When properly shaken, the Grasshopper achieves a velvety, almost mousse-like consistency that coats your palate similarly to premium ice cream.

Temperature: Served ice-cold from vigorous shaking, the drink delivers the same refreshing chill as frozen desserts.

Sweetness level: Like mint-chocolate chip ice cream, the Grasshopper is unapologetically sweet. This isn't a cocktail for those who prefer dry martinis - it's dessert in drinkable form.

Why it works: The combination of mint and chocolate is one of the most universally beloved flavor pairings. The Grasshopper simply presents this classic combination in liquid form, with the added sophistication of fine liqueurs and cocktail craft.

Popular Grasshopper Variations

Once you've mastered the classic Grasshopper recipe, these variations offer new twists on the mint-chocolate theme.

Flying Grasshopper

The Flying Grasshopper adds vodka to the original recipe for a stronger, more spirit-forward version.

Recipe:

• 0.75 oz green creme de menthe
• 0.75 oz white creme de cacao
• 0.75 oz vodka
• 1 oz heavy cream

Why it works: The vodka adds kick without interfering with the mint-chocolate flavor profile. This version appeals to those who find the original too sweet or want more alcoholic strength.

Grasshopper Pie Cocktail

Inspired by the famous Mississippi Mud Pie variation, this version adds chocolate and cookie elements.

Recipe:

• 1 oz green creme de menthe
• 1 oz white creme de cacao
• 1 oz heavy cream
• 0.5 oz chocolate liqueur
• Garnish with crushed Oreo cookies around the rim

Preparation: Rim a chilled glass with chocolate syrup and crushed chocolate cookies. Shake all ingredients and strain into the prepared glass.

Peppermint Grasshopper

For a more refreshing, less sweet version with brighter mint flavor.

Recipe:

• 1 oz peppermint schnapps
• 0.5 oz white creme de cacao
• 1 oz heavy cream
• 0.5 oz white chocolate liqueur

Character: More pronounced mint with cleaner flavor profile, perfect for those who find traditional creme de menthe too sweet.

Vegan Grasshopper

A dairy-free alternative that doesn't sacrifice flavor.

Recipe:

• 1 oz green creme de menthe
• 1 oz white creme de cacao
• 1 oz coconut cream (from canned coconut milk)
• 0.25 oz vanilla syrup (to enhance creaminess)

Pro tip: Coconut cream works beautifully here, adding complementary tropical notes that enhance rather than compete with the mint-chocolate base.

Minty Alexander

A hybrid between a Grasshopper and a Brandy Alexander.

Recipe:

• 0.75 oz green creme de menthe
• 0.75 oz white creme de cacao
• 0.75 oz cognac or brandy
• 1 oz heavy cream

Character: The addition of brandy adds warmth, depth, and complexity to the mint-chocolate foundation.

Essential Equipment for the Perfect Grasshopper

While you don't need a professional bar setup, having the right tools ensures consistently excellent results with your Grasshopper recipe.

Must-Have Tools

Cocktail shaker: A Boston shaker or three-piece cobbler shaker works well. For cream drinks, ensure it seals tightly to prevent leaks during vigorous shaking. Check out our essential bar tools guide for recommendations.

Jigger: Precision matters, especially with liqueurs. A dual-sided jigger with 1 oz and 2 oz measurements ensures consistent results.

Coupe glass: The classic vessel for a Grasshopper, showcasing the vibrant color while providing an elegant drinking experience. A 5-6 oz coupe is ideal.

Fine mesh strainer: For double-straining to remove any ice shards, ensuring a perfectly smooth texture. Learn more about proper straining in our cocktail techniques guide.

Bar spoon: Useful for gentle stirring if needed and for crafting garnishes. Similar techniques are covered in our cocktail shaker types guide.

Nice to Have

Microplane grater: For creating fine chocolate shavings as garnish Blender: Essential if you want to make frozen Grasshoppers Hawthorne strainer: For professional-level straining technique

Grasshopper Pie: The Dessert Connection

The Grasshopper's popularity inspired an entire category of mint-chocolate desserts, most notably Grasshopper Pie - a no-bake pie featuring a chocolate cookie crust filled with mint-flavored cream, often made with actual creme de menthe.

This cross-pollination between cocktails and desserts demonstrates the Grasshopper's cultural impact beyond the bar. In fact, many people encounter "Grasshopper flavor" through pie or ice cream before ever trying the cocktail that inspired these treats.

If you love Grasshopper pie, the Grasshopper cocktail is essentially the same flavor experience in liquid form - and vice versa. Consider serving both at a dinner party for a cohesive mint-chocolate theme.

Modern Grasshopper Renaissance

While cream-based cocktails fell out of favor during the craft cocktail revolution's obsession with spirit-forward drinks, recent years have seen a nostalgic revival of classics like the Grasshopper. Modern bartenders are rediscovering these creamy, indulgent cocktails and introducing them to new audiences alongside other classics like the White Russian and Brandy Alexander.

Why the comeback?:

• Nostalgia for mid-century cocktail culture
• Appreciation for dessert cocktails as a category
• Instagram-worthy bright green color
• Increasing interest in after-dinner drinks
• Recognition that not every cocktail needs to be dry and spirit-forward

High-end restaurants are adding Grasshoppers to dessert menus, positioning them as alternatives to traditional sweet courses. Some are elevating the recipe with artisanal liqueurs, house-made creme de menthe, or unique presentations like Grasshopper milkshakes or Grasshopper affogatos.

Final Thoughts

The Grasshopper recipe represents everything wonderful about classic cocktails: simple ingredients, easy technique, and spectacular results. Born in New Orleans over a century ago, this mint-chocolate masterpiece has earned its place in cocktail history through sheer deliciousness.

Whether you prefer the classic shaken version, the frozen blended variation, or one of the many creative spins, the Grasshopper delivers an unapologetic dessert experience in a glass. It's not trying to be sophisticated or trendy - it's simply delicious, and sometimes that's exactly what you need.

The equal-parts formula makes it nearly foolproof for home bartenders, while the vibrant green color and indulgent flavor make it a crowd-pleaser at gatherings. Perfect as an after-dinner treat, a St. Patrick's Day celebration, or anytime you want something that tastes like mint-chocolate ice cream with a kick.

So chill your coupe glass, grab your liqueurs and cream, and shake up this legendary New Orleans classic. The Grasshopper is waiting to transport you to a simpler time when cocktails were sweet, creamy, and absolutely delicious.

Cheers from the French Quarter!