Have you ever come across a cocktail as bright and glowing as the green, green Grasshopper? Made up...
GrasshopperCocktail recipe
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The Grasshopper is a creamy, mint-chocolate cocktail that sits firmly in the after-dinner drink tradition. You’ll most often see it associated with mid-century cocktail culture, when sweet, dessert-like serves and vividly coloured liqueurs had a moment in bars and supper clubs. While its exact origin story is often told in different ways, what’s consistent is the drink’s enduring appeal as a simple, indulgent trio built around crème liqueurs and cream.
On the palate, crème de menthe brings a bright, cooling mint sweetness that immediately defines the drink. Crème de cacao follows with smooth chocolate richness, turning that mint into a familiar mint-chocolate pairing rather than a sharp herbal note. Cream ties everything together, softening the liqueurs’ sweetness and giving you a rounded, velvety texture that lingers like a liquid dessert.
Serve it in a cocktail glass when you want something soothing and nostalgic—ideal after dinner, alongside dessert, or as a nightcap when you’re craving sweetness over sharp citrus. If you like creamy cocktails and candy-bar flavours, this is a natural fit, especially for guests who prefer their drinks gentle, rich, and unmistakably minty.
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Cocktail Colin says:
Crème de cacao brings a smooth milk-chocolate sweetness while crème de menthe layers bright, cooling mint, and the cream ties them together into a thick, velvety sip that reads like melted mint-chocolate candy. It works because the minty lift keeps the cacao from feeling cloying and the cream softens the herbal edge, making it ideal for dessert-drink fans and anyone craving a gentle, low-bite nightcap.
Method
How to make a Grasshopper
- Creme de cacao 20ml, Creme de menthe 20ml, Cream 20ml
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- Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice
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- Shake well for 10-15 seconds or until the outside of the shaker becomes frosted
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- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass
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- Garnish with some mint leaves and serve
Power tips
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Find out more- Chill the cocktail glass beforehand in the freezer to ensure your Grasshopper stays cold longer, preserving its creamy texture.
- For an indulgent treat, blend the ingredients with a scoop of high-quality vanilla ice cream instead of shaking them with ice.
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FAQ's
What is the origin of the Grasshopper cocktail?
The Grasshopper cocktail originated in the French Quarter of New Orleans, Louisiana. It is often attributed to the owner of Tujague's, a historic bar, who reportedly created the drink in the early 20th century.
Can the Grasshopper cocktail be made dairy-free?
Yes, the Grasshopper cocktail can be made dairy-free by using a plant-based cream substitute instead of dairy cream. Coconut cream or almond milk are popular choices that can mimic the creamy texture without using dairy.
Is the Grasshopper suitable as a dessert cocktail?
Absolutely! With its creamy texture and sweet flavor profile from the Creme De Menthe and Creme De Cacao, the Grasshopper is often enjoyed as a dessert cocktail. Its minty taste makes it a refreshing end to a meal.
How can I garnish a Grasshopper cocktail?
A Grasshopper cocktail can be garnished with a few fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of chocolate shavings. These garnishes complement the mint and chocolate flavors in the drink and enhance its visual appeal.
Is the Grasshopper a strong cocktail?
No, the Grasshopper is not considered a strong cocktail in terms of alcohol content. It has a relatively low alcohol content because its primary ingredients—Creme De Menthe and Creme De Cacao—are liqueurs with lower alcohol by volume (ABV) than spirits such as vodka or whisky. It's a good choice for those who prefer milder drinks.
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