Grasshopper Cocktail: A Classic Dessert Drink

The Grasshopper Cocktail is a classic dessert drink that exudes vibrant green color and creamy, mint-chocolate flavor profile.

Originating from the French Quarter of New Orleans, this cocktail recipe has enjoyed a long-standing reputation as a great after-dinner treat.

Its sweet taste and cool appearance make it a favorite among those who appreciate a cocktail that serves as both a beverage and a dessert.

Here’s an in-depth guide on how to make the Grasshopper Cocktail.

Grasshopper Cocktail Ingredients

• Green Crème de Menthe (1 ounce / 30 ml): Provides the signature mint flavor and vibrant green color.
• White Crème de Cacao (1 ounce / 30 ml): Adds a smooth, chocolatey sweetness that perfectly complements the mint.
• Heavy Cream (2 ounces / 60 ml): Creates a rich, creamy texture, balancing the sweetness and adding a luxurious mouthfeel.
• Garnish: Freshly Grated Nutmeg (Optional): Adds a hint of spice and aroma, enhancing the cocktail’s depth and complexity.

Grasshopper Cocktail Recipe

1. Chill Cocktail Glass: Chill your glass (generally a coupe glass)  in the freezer. A cold glass will keep your cocktail chilled longer, enhancing the drinking experience.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, pour in the green crème de menthe, white crème de cacao, and heavy cream. The order of ingredients doesn’t affect the outcome, but adding the heavy cream last can help it mix more smoothly when shaken.
3. Shake: Fill the shaker with ice and shake for about 15 seconds. Shaking chills the ingredients creating a frothy texture.
4. Strain and Serve: Strain the mixture into the chilled cocktail glass. The fine strainer will catch any ice chips, ensuring a smooth texture.
5. Garnish and Enjoy: If using, grate fresh nutmeg over the top of the drink for an added layer of flavor and aroma. Serve immediately and savor the creamy, mint-chocolate delight of the Grasshopper Cocktail.

The Grasshopper Cocktail – In Detail

The Grasshopper, a green tipple from days gone by, features green crème de menthe, white crème de cacao, and heavy cream. Crème de menthe, made by infusing mint leaves or extract into neutral alcohol before sweetening, lightly aging, and bottling, offers a minty essence. Meanwhile, white crème de cacao, a sweet liqueur with a chocolate flavor and texture, completes the cocktail.

Legend has it that this cocktail emerged in 1919 in New Orleans, though it didn’t gain popularity until the 1950s, as Prohibition stunted the growth of many pre-Prohibition cocktails. Combining the three ingredients in equal measures yields a beverage reminiscent of melted mint-chocolate-chip ice cream, both in appearance and taste.

During the disco era, the Grasshopper earned its place as a dessert cocktail staple, while modern bartenders have reimagined its recipe.

This particular recipe hails from renowned New York bartender Dale DeGroff, who deviates from the equal-parts formula by elevating the heavy cream for added richness. Simply shake the ingredients with ice, and for an extra touch of elegance, sprinkle nutmeg atop the cocktail.

While the Grasshopper can be enjoyed at any time of day, its sweet and creamy profile makes it particularly delightful after dinner. Indulge in one following a satisfying meal at the bar, or whip one up at home as a delectable dessert alternative.

For those looking for just a taste, there is also a Grashopper Shot recipe.