Grasshopper Cocktail

Mint-chocolate fans, this three-ingredient Grasshopper might just become your favorite cocktail. Creamy, sweet, and perfectly pastel green, it’s made with a simple blend of crème de menthe, crème de cacao, and cream. Shake it up with plenty of ice until it has a silky-smooth consistency—almost like a grown-up milkshake! Then pour the cocktail into a chilled coupe glass and garnish it with chocolate-covered mint candies.

It’s part cocktail, part dessert, and just the thing to add to your lineup of St. Patrick's Day drinks when you’re ready for a nightcap.

If you like the flavor of this cocktail, try this no-bake grasshopper pie next.

What is the origin of a Grasshopper cocktail?

The grasshopper was created in the early 1900s by Philip Guichet, the owner of Tujague’s, a French Quarter restaurant in New Orleans that is still in operation today. After earning second place in a cocktail competition in New York, the drink made its way back to the Crescent City, where it quickly became a beloved classic. The cocktail's name is believed to be inspired by its color.

Find more classic cocktail recipes here.

Can you use milk instead of cream in a grasshopper cocktail?

You can, but the cocktail won’t be nearly as rich, creamy, or thick. If you don’t want to use cream, half-and-half makes a great substitute.

Can a grasshopper cocktail be made with white crème de menthe?

Yes. If you swap the green crème de menthe for white, you'll have what is called a "White Grasshopper." The flavor remains the same, but you'll lose the vibrant green color.

Can you make a grasshopper cocktail ahead of time?

Yes! You can combine the crème de menthe, crème de cacao, and cream up to one day ahead and store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Then simply finish the cocktail in a shaker with ice just before serving. You can also assemble the garnish a day in advance.

What other garnishes can be used on a grasshopper cocktail?

You can get creative with garnishes like chocolate shavings or a fresh mint leaf, or keep it simple with no garnish at all.