This Grasshopper cocktail is a refreshing classic that’s perfect any time of year, not just for St. Patrick’s Day. Its cool mint flavor, creamy texture, and signature bright green color make it a lovely after-dinner sipper or a fun party drink for mint lovers.
My parents often hosted dinner parties and loved serving elegant cocktails. Alongside Manhattans, whiskey sours, and sloe gin fizzes, the Grasshopper was a regular favorite. It’s easy to see why: the vivid green color is eye-catching, and the combination of mint, chocolate, and cream tastes indulgent—like a drinkable mint chocolate dessert.
The texture is almost milkshake-like when made with cream, and the flavor calls to mind an After Eight candy. It’s a delightful way to finish a meal or to serve when you want a cheerful, retro-style cocktail.
Who invented the Grasshopper drink?
The Grasshopper was created by Philibert Guichet for a 1918 cocktail competition in New York City. The drink earned second place and quickly became popular in New Orleans, where it remains on the menu at Tujague’s.
How to make a Grasshopper cocktail
Gather a cocktail shaker, a jigger or measuring glass, and coupe or martini glasses. After measuring the ingredients, add them to a shaker filled halfway with ice, shake briefly, then strain into chilled glasses.
The classic recipe uses green crème de menthe, white crème de cacao, and cream. Using the green crème de menthe preserves the Grasshopper’s iconic color; choose clear (white) crème de cacao so the drink stays bright.
After shaking, divide the strained cocktail between two chilled glasses. The result is a smooth, minty drink with a pleasing, creamy mouthfeel and a striking color.
I hope you enjoy this easy and elegant Grasshopper cocktail—perfect for entertaining or for a quiet, indulgent drink at home.
Other crème de menthe drinks
- Irish flag shot
- After Eight shot
And as always, may your dishes and drinks be delish!
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment to share how it turned out—I love hearing from readers.
Grasshopper Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 ounces crème de menthe
- 2 ounces white crème de cacao
- 2 ounces heavy cream (or light cream/half-and-half)
Instructions
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Fill a cocktail shaker half full with ice.
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Add crème de menthe, white crème de cacao, and cream.2 ounces crème de menthe, 2 ounces white crème de cacao, 2 ounces cream
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Cap the shaker and shake for about 10 seconds until chilled and slightly frothy. Strain and divide between two chilled glasses.
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Sip, smile, and enjoy.
Equipment
Notes
Helpful tips
- Use light cream, heavy cream, half-and-half, or even milk depending on how rich you want the cocktail to be.
- Choose green crème de menthe for the classic color; clear crème de menthe will produce a paler drink.
- White (clear) crème de cacao keeps the cocktail bright; dark crème de cacao will deepen the color.
- Serve in a chilled coupe or martini glass to highlight the color and texture.
- Garnish is optional—this cocktail is lovely as-is, but a small mint sprig or grated chocolate can be added if desired.
Nutrition
Originally published September 2016.