Name: Grasshopper Drink
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 1
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ oz crème de menthe.; 1 ½ oz white creme de cacao.; 2 oz Heavy cream.; 1 tsp chocolate curls optional for garnish.; 3 oz melted chocolate optional to rim the glass.; 1 cup of ice; Garnish with chocolate curls on top, and a sprig of mint optional.

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Grasshopper drink is a classic that has stood the test of time, celebrated for its delicious blend of minty freshness and rich chocolate.

green cocktail served into a martini glass

What is a Grasshopper Drink?

This recipe, a classic cocktail known for its refreshing mint flavor and creamy chocolate undertones, has a history that traces back to the mid-20th century. The precise origin of the Grasshopper is a subject of some debate. Still, it is widely accepted that it emerged in the 1950s, gaining popularity in the vibrant cocktail culture of New Orleans, Louisiana.

Grasshopper cocktail is often credited to Philip Guichet, a bartender at Tujague’s bar, one of the city’s oldest and most esteemed restaurants.

The cocktail’s vibrant green color and delicious chocolate-mint flavor dessert quickly made it a hit with customers.

2 martini glasses with green liquid, rim it with chocolate

Ingredients For a Grasshopper Drink

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the art of making the perfect drink, exploring cocktail ingredients, step-by-step instructions, creative variations, and tips to improve your mixology skills.

Crème de Menthe: This vibrant green liqueur infuses the cocktail with a fresh and refreshing mint flavor, creating the base for the iconic green cocktail.

White Crème de Cacao: The sweet and delicious notes of the cocoa liquor add a rich chocolate character to the drink.

Heavy Cream: The heavy cream adds a luxurious, velvety texture, transforming the grasshopper into a smooth, decadent drink.
Chocolate Curls (optional): Delicate chocolate curls can be sprinkled on top for an extra touch of elegance and delicious texture as a garnish.

(Scroll below to the printable recipe card for details and measurements.)

grasshopper recipe served into a martini glass

How to Make a Grasshopper Drink?

Have the ingredients ready and get ready to have fun mixing this colorful cocktail.

Instructions:

1.- Begin by riming the glass with melted chocolate previously cooled to room temperature. Dip the rim of the glass into a shallow bowl of chocolate, ensuring an even, thick layer.

2.- In a cocktail shaker with plenty of ice add Crème de Menthe, white crème de cacao, and heavy cream, then shake vigorously for 10-15 sec

3.- Strain the mixture with a fine mesh strainer, do the double strain technique to obtain a clean cocktail then serve into a prepared glass.

4.- Garnish with chocolate curls on top, and a sprig of mint optional, serve, and ENJOY!

Variation of a Grasshopper Drink

For dessert lovers, it is a delight to be able to try one of our favorite desserts such as a grasshopper pie transformed into liquid so we can find different versions of desserts in a cocktail.

But before here are some other sweet recipes to consider:

Caramel Martini, Candy Cane Martini, and Amarula Cocktail.

1.-Experiment with chocolate varieties: Explore different types of cocoa cream, such as dark or white chocolate variations, to customize the chocolate profile to your preferences. Add 1 oz of coffee liqueur (Kahlua) you will love the taste.

2.-Ice cream variation: For an indulgent touch, drop a scoop of vanilla ice cream into the glass and 1 ounce of Frangelico liquor. This variation transforms the cocktail into a creamy, dessert-like treat.

3.-Frozen Drink: Transform the grasshopper into a frozen treat by blending the ingredients with ice. Serve in a chilled glass for a refreshing, slushy texture, and for a kick of alcohol add 1 ounce of vodka.

4.-Non-alcoholic grasshopper: Make a non-alcoholic version by substituting crème de menthe and creme de cacao using only heavy cream. Add a drop of peppermint extract to obtain the peppermint essence, and to get the color add one drop of green food coloring.

green martinis recipe with melted chocolate on the rim and chocolate curls as a garnish

When to Serve a Grasshopper Drink?

The drink, with its refreshing mint flavor and creamy chocolate undertone, is a versatile cocktail that can be served on a variety of occasions.

1. Dessert pairing: Serve this drink as a delicious dessert cocktail to top off a satisfying meal. Its sweet and minty profile makes it the perfect companion to rich chocolate desserts or as a stand-alone treat.

2. After-dinner Gatherings: Present the drink during after-dinner meals or social events. It’s delicious flavor and dessert qualities make it an excellent option to end an evening with friends or family.

3. Cocktails: Include this recipe in your cocktail schedule. Its vibrant green color and unique flavor can add a fun and visually appealing element to your beverage selection, catering to your sweet tooth.

4. Summer Celebrations: Offer this cocktail as a refreshing option during summer celebrations. The freshness of mint provides a cooling effect, making it a delicious option for warm-weather gatherings or outdoor events.

5.-St Patrick’s Day: Celebrate this day with this vibrant green cocktail that is very alluring to this day, its color and flavor captivate everyone!

Suggestion to serve with a Grasshopper Drink

Pairing snacks or appetizers with this drink can enhance the overall experience by providing complementary flavors and textures. Since the cocktail has a sweet, minty profile with chocolate undertones, consider these pairing options:

1. Chocolate fondue: Immerse yourself in pleasure by combining this cocktail with a chocolate fondue. The creamy, minty cocktail complements the richness of the melted chocolate, creating a delicious combination.

2. Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream: Enhance the minty freshness of the drink by serving it alongside mint chocolate chip ice cream. The fresh and creamy dessert pairs well with the flavor profile of the cocktail.

3. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: Elevate the experience with the classic combination of chocolate-covered strawberries. The sweetness of the strawberry contrasts with the minty touch of the cocktail.

4. Dark Chocolate Truffles: Opt for sophisticated dark chocolate truffles as a pairing. The sweetness and minty notes of the recipe harmonize with the deep flavors of dark chocolate.

5. Mint Oreo Cookies: Create a fun combination by serving this drink with mint Oreos. The crunchy chocolate and mint filling complement the flavor profile of the cocktail.

martini glasses with melted chocolate on the rim

Notes:

Remember to consider the overall theme of your event or your guests’ preferences when selecting pairings. Whether you opt for classic chocolate treats or get creative with unique combinations, the goal is to enhance the enjoyment of the cocktail and create a memorable tasting experience. Cheers!

grasshopper drink served into a martini glass

Conclusion:

The Grasshopper drink’s journey from the historic streets of New Orleans to its place as a classic cocktail icon is a testament to the enduring appeal of well-crafted libations. Its sweet, minty charm, along with its vibrant presentation, has ensured it the status of a beloved cocktail with timeless charm. Whether enjoyed in a historic New Orleans bar or mixed at home, this recipe continues to captivate the taste buds of those seeking a delicious and indulgent sip.

green cocktail into a martini glass with melted chocolate on the rim

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Yield: 1