Grasshopper Recipe – Light, refreshing, and irresistibly creamy, the Grasshopper is one of the most iconic dessert cocktails in classic bartending. Famous for its vibrant green color and cool mint-chocolate flavor, this drink strikes a beautiful balance between sweetness, smooth texture, and elegant presentation. Originating in the early 20th century and gaining popularity in supper clubs and vintage cocktail lounges, the Grasshopper has remained a beloved after-dinner favorite for generations.
Recipe Overview
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Cuisine: Classic American / Vintage Cocktail
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Course: Dessert Drink / After-Dinner Cocktail
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Servings: 1 glass
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Calories (approx.): 220–280 kcal per serving
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Prep Time: 5 minutes
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Active Mixing Time: 5 minutes
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Resting / Chilling Time: 1–2 minutes (optional glass chilling)
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Total Time: 6–8 minutes
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Flavor Profile: Sweet, mint-chocolate, creamy, smooth
Ingredients
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1 oz crème de menthe (green)
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1 oz crème de cacao (white)
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1 oz heavy cream or half-and-half
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Ice cubes (for shaking)
Optional Garnishes
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grated chocolate
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cocoa powder dust
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mint leaf
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whipped cream swirl
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chocolate shaving rim
Equipment Needed
To make this cocktail smoothly and professionally, you’ll need:
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Cocktail shaker
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Jigger or measuring shot glass
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Hawthorne or fine strainer
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Coupe or martini glass (preferably chilled)
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Bar spoon (optional)
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Small plate for garnish prep
A chilled glass helps enhance texture and presentation, especially for dessert-style cocktails.
Instructions
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Chill the serving glass
Place the coupe or martini glass in the freezer for 1–2 minutes or fill it with ice water while mixing the drink. -
Fill the shaker with ice
Add enough ice to properly chill the ingredients without over-diluting them. -
Add the liquids
Pour in crème de menthe, crème de cacao, and cream (or half-and-half). -
Shake vigorously
Shake for 12–15 seconds until the shaker turns frosty and the mixture becomes silky and well-aerated. -
Discard ice from the chilled glass (if used)
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Strain into the glass
Strain the cocktail smoothly to achieve a clean, glossy surface. -
Garnish and serve
Top with chocolate shavings, a mint leaf, or a light cocoa dusting if desired.
Serve immediately while cold, creamy, and fresh.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220–280 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 18–24 g |
| Sugars | 16–22 g |
| Fat | 6–9 g |
| Protein | 1–2 g |
| Sodium | 10–20 mg |
| Alcohol Content | ~16–22% ABV |
| Total Volume | ~3–3.5 oz |
Values vary depending on cream choice and brand of liqueurs..
Helpful Tips for a Perfect Grasshopper
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Use fresh, chilled cream for better texture.
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Shake well — aeration creates a silky mouthfeel.
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Avoid over-sweetening — crème de menthe and crème de cacao already provide sweetness.
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Serve immediately to maintain chill and cream stability.
For a slightly lighter version, replace heavy cream with half-and-half.
Conclusion
The Grasshopper is a timeless cocktail that blends mint, chocolate, and cream into a smooth, velvety, dessert-style drink that feels nostalgic yet sophisticated. Easy to prepare, elegantly presented, and endlessly adaptable, it remains a favorite for celebrations, after-dinner sipping, and special occasions.
