The Grasshopper, a quirky and bright concoction first developed in the early 20th century, continues to capture hearts. This sweet and decadent sip is easily recognizable for its unique green color and creamy mouthfeel. Refreshing and indulgent, Grasshopper is a superb after-dinner drink or fancy get-together.

How to Make a Grasshopper Drink

For a grasshopper, to be included in the Pacific Coast Cocktail Party, all you need to do is shake up equal parts crème de menthe and crème de cacao with some cream; strain into a well-chilled coupe glass. Strain into the chilled glass, and garnish with mint or pour chocolate over it. We hope you love our take on this minty, sweet classic.

Ingredients

• 1 oz crème de menthe: Brings the green and flavor of mint that is crucial to an enjoyable grasshopper.
• 1 oz crème de cacao – rich and chocolatey underneath the mint.
• 1 oz Heavy Cream- Gives you the smooth velvet texture that counters the sweetness.
• Ice: Works wonders in keeping your margarita cool and making the texture just right.
• Mint Leaves: This one is used as fresh garnish which gives enhancing smell and look.
• Shaved chocolate: For added indulgence, and visually appeal.

Instructions

1. Fill a shaker with ice: Fill the shaker with ice as well, make sure to chill thoroughly.
2. Add the crème de menthe, crème de cacao, and heavy cream: Measure and pour the ingredients over the ice.
3. Shake vigorously: Shake well to thoroughly chilling and blending the mixture, until creamy.
4. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass: Strain the mixture into a glass, leaving ice behind in the shaker.
5. Garnish as desired: Garnish with flecks of mint, shavings of chocolate, or a sprinkle of hot cocoa powder if desired.

Serving Suggestions

• Chill your glass: Make the experience even better by serving it in a chilled glass from the freezer.
• Fresh cream: Use only fresh and best quality cream to show maximum flavor and texture.
• Garnish creatively: for instance, a few mint leaves, or sprinkle some chocolate shavings around the rim for an elegant look.
• Dessert Pairing: This would pair wonderfully with chocolate or mint dessert to play off the flavors in the cocktail.
• Quality spirits: With a better quality spirit in, you will get the fuller and smoother cocktail.
• Make Flavor Adjustments: Change the sweetness and cream profile to get a balanced flavor profile.
• Spices: A little cinnamon or nutmeg is an interesting addition to flavor.

Tips and Variations

• Fan of lighter drinks: If you want to make the drink even lighter, replace heavy cream with half-and-half.
• Non-dairy option: Coconut milk or almond milk for dairy-free
• Mint Chocolate Variation: Add few drops of peppermint extract for more mint taste, or use dark crème de cacao for more complex flavor.
• Layering your shots: When using the above shot glasses, pour the crème de menthe last to create color separation.

Preparation Time

• 3 minutes
• Serving size: 1 person

Nutrition Information

• Calories: 245 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 16 g
• Fat: 11 g
• Protein: 1 g

Ingredient Substitutes

• Crème de menthe: Non-alcoholic, use mint syrup.
• Crème de cacao: You can go a crème de cacao and use chocolate syrup; this preserves the intense flavor without raising you (BAC).
• Heavy cream: Swap out for a plant-based cream for vegan-friendly juice.
• Vodka: Non-alcoholic spirit of choice (like seedlip) for similar flavor profile.
• Sugar – Try using honey or agave syrup to sweeten your scones.
• Ice cream: Replace with dairy-free ice cream for a gluten-free treat.

FAQs

What is the history of the Grasshopper cocktail? 

Originating in New Orleans in the early 20th century, it was reportedly popularized in that city at the famous bar Tujague's.

Can I make a Grasshopper in advance? 

Served immediately after a thrill but it is possible to pre-mix the liquids and only the cream we put just before service.

What type of glass is best for a Grasshopper? 

Traditionally, this stylish drink is served in a cocktail glass or coupe.

Is there a way to create a non-alcoholic grasshopper?

Use mint extract and chocolate syrup instead of the crème de menthe and crème de cacao for a similar flavor sans alcohol.

Is there a variation of the Grasshopper cocktail? 

Absolutely, in things like the Frozen Grasshopper which incorporates ice cream to render this cocktail one of rich dessert-like quality.

Conclusion

The Grasshopper is a wonderful, tasty treat of a cocktail — a long-standing dessert drink, and great for anyone with something of a sweet tooth. It worms its way into any cocktail lineup with a wink and naught but an easy prep and elegant flavor.