Grasshopper Cocktail

The Grasshopper Cocktail is a timeless dessert drink with a creamy, minty freshness that pairs beautifully with rich chocolate. A favorite from the 1950s, this cocktail delivers a velvety texture, thanks to the heavy cream, while the crème de menthe and crème de cacao bring a delightful mint-chocolate combination to the forefront. Perfect for after-dinner drinks or a festive gathering, the Grasshopper Cocktail is both simple to make and impressive to serve. Garnished with a sprig of fresh mint and a light dusting of chocolate, it’s an eye-catching treat for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it as a dessert cocktail or offering it at a cocktail party, this drink is sure to please anyone who loves the classic combination of mint and chocolate.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

1 ounce crème de menthe
1 ounce crème de cacao
2 ounces heavy cream
Ice cubes
Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)
Grated chocolate (optional)

Directions:

Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
Pour in crème de menthe, crème de cacao, and heavy cream.
Shake well until the mixture is chilled and smooth.
Strain the cocktail into a chilled martini glass or coupe.
Garnish with fresh mint leaves and a sprinkle of grated chocolate, if desired.

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 5 minutes
Kcal: 230 kcal | Servings: 1 serving

The Origins of the Grasshopper Cocktail

The cocktail was reportedly created in New Orleans at Tujague’s restaurant in the French Quarter. The story goes that the restaurant’s owner entered a cocktail contest in New York City around 1918 with this now-iconic drink. The name “Grasshopper” likely comes from its vibrant green hue, reminiscent of the insect itself. Though the cocktail didn’t win the grand prize at the contest, it became a sensation, especially in the U.S. South.

This cocktail became especially popular during the post-Prohibition era and into the mid-century, when sweeter cocktails were in vogue. Its association with parties, after-dinner drinks, and retro cocktail hours has earned it a place in the pantheon of classic American cocktails. For many, the Grasshopper brings back memories of vintage dinners and celebrations.

Why the Grasshopper Cocktail is a Must-Try

The Grasshopper Cocktail offers several benefits, making it a standout in any cocktail repertoire:

A Perfect Dessert Drink: If you’re looking for an after-dinner treat, this cocktail is ideal. Its creamy texture combined with the rich chocolate and mint flavors satisfies cravings without the need for a heavy dessert. It strikes a perfect balance between being indulgent and refreshing.
Simple and Elegant: With just three main ingredients—crème de menthe, crème de cacao, and cream—it’s incredibly easy to make. Despite its simplicity, the drink looks elegant and sophisticated, especially when garnished with fresh mint and a dusting of chocolate. It’s the perfect cocktail for impressing guests without a lot of effort.
Customizable: While the original recipe calls for cream, you can easily swap it out for alternatives like half-and-half or even a dairy-free substitute to suit different dietary preferences. Some modern variations also experiment with adding ice cream or chocolate syrup to make it more dessert-like, resembling a boozy milkshake.
Nostalgic and Fun: The Grasshopper Cocktail is more than just a drink—it’s a throwback to a bygone era of glamorous cocktail parties and retro celebrations. Serving this at a gathering instantly sets a fun and nostalgic tone, giving people a taste of the mid-century cocktail culture.
Refreshing Flavor Combination: The pairing of mint and chocolate is timeless, popular in everything from candies to ice cream. The Grasshopper Cocktail delivers this combination in a luxurious, liquid form. The crème de menthe offers a refreshing, cooling mintiness, while the crème de cacao provides a velvety chocolate richness. Combined with cream, it’s smooth and comforting, with just the right amount of sweetness.

Nutritional Profile and Health Benefits

While cocktails are usually enjoyed for their flavor and fun rather than their nutritional benefits, the Grasshopper Cocktail does have some noteworthy aspects:

Moderate Calories: With around 230 calories per serving, it’s relatively moderate for a dessert drink. It won’t weigh you down like some heavier dessert cocktails (or actual desserts), making it a nice light option for indulgence.
Mint for Digestion: Crème de menthe, the mint-flavored liqueur, contains mint oils, which are known to help with digestion. A small amount of mint, such as in this drink, can soothe the digestive tract after a meal, making the Grasshopper an excellent choice for an after-dinner cocktail.
Antioxidants in Chocolate: Crème de cacao, the chocolate-flavored liqueur, contains compounds from cacao, which are rich in antioxidants. While this is no substitute for eating dark chocolate, it’s still a nice touch when combined with mint. A garnish of dark chocolate or cocoa nibs can also add a small boost of antioxidants.

The Grasshopper Cocktail in Modern Times

Though the Grasshopper Cocktail enjoyed massive popularity decades ago, it has experienced a revival in recent years. As more and more people explore vintage and classic cocktails, the Grasshopper has found its way back onto cocktail menus, particularly in speakeasy-style bars and retro-themed restaurants. Its rich flavor profile and nostalgic charm have made it a favorite for themed parties, holiday gatherings, and even weddings.

Bartenders and mixologists have also started playing around with modern variations of the Grasshopper. Some add a splash of vodka or whiskey to give it more punch, while others serve it over crushed ice or blend it with ice cream for a frosty, milkshake-like experience. The flexibility of this cocktail makes it adaptable to modern tastes while retaining its retro appeal.

Tips for Making the Perfect Grasshopper Cocktail

Use High-Quality Ingredients: Since the recipe is so simple, the quality of your ingredients really matters. Opt for premium crème de menthe and crème de cacao to get the best, smoothest flavor.
Chill Your Glassware: For an extra touch of elegance, chill your martini or coupe glasses before serving. This keeps the drink colder for longer and enhances the overall experience.
Garnish Creatively: A simple garnish of fresh mint leaves is a must, but for an extra touch, sprinkle a bit of grated dark chocolate or cocoa powder over the top. This adds a subtle texture and enhances the chocolate flavor in the cocktail. You could even use a peppermint stick during the holiday season for a festive twist.
Experiment with Creams: Heavy cream is traditional, but if you prefer a lighter drink, you can substitute it with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative. Coconut milk or almond milk can provide interesting flavors and a slightly different texture while still maintaining the richness of the drink.

When to Serve the Grasshopper Cocktail

The Grasshopper is an ideal cocktail for a variety of occasions:

After-Dinner Digestif: Its light, minty flavor is perfect after a big meal, helping to cleanse the palate while providing a sweet treat.
Holiday Celebrations: The mint and chocolate flavor combo is reminiscent of holiday desserts, making it a great choice for Christmas, New Year’s, or any winter gathering.
Retro-Themed Parties: If you’re hosting a 1950s or 60s-themed party, the Grasshopper is a must-have. It fits perfectly with the aesthetic and the flavors of the era.
Bridal Showers and Weddings: The cocktail’s elegant appearance and refreshing taste make it a classy addition to wedding cocktail menus or bridal showers.

Conclusion

The Grasshopper Cocktail is more than just a drink—it’s an experience. From its refreshing mint flavor to its indulgent chocolate finish, it satisfies both sweet cravings and the desire for a sophisticated cocktail. Whether you’re sipping it after a meal or serving it at a party, the Grasshopper is sure to delight. Plus, with its simple ingredients and quick preparation, it’s an easy way to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. If you’re looking for a cocktail that combines vintage charm with modern appeal, the Grasshopper Cocktail is the perfect choice.