Can I make this recipe without alcohol?

Absolutely! Substitute the crème de menthe with 1-2 teaspoons of mint extract and a drop of green food coloring. Replace the crème de cacao with chocolate syrup. You'll get all the flavor without the alcohol, making it perfect for everyone to enjoy.

Why is my Grasshopper Drink too thin?

This usually happens if your ice cream was too soft or you didn't use enough ice. Try adding more ice cubes and re-blending, or add an extra scoop of ice cream. You can also place the blended mixture in the freezer for 15 minutes to firm it up before serving.

Can I prepare this drink in advance for a party?

I don't recommend blending the drink far in advance as it will lose its frothy texture and melt. However, you can prepare the chocolate-rimmed glasses ahead of time and have all ingredients measured and ready to blend right before serving. For parties, consider making batches as needed throughout the evening.

Is there a way to make this drink less sweet?

Yes! Use less vanilla ice cream and add a bit more ice to maintain the volume. You could also use good-quality vanilla gelato, which typically has less sugar than commercial ice cream. For the adults, increasing the liqueur slightly will also cut the sweetness while adding more mint-chocolate flavor.

Grasshopper Drink Recipe - LazyDayRecipes

Name: Grasshopper Drink Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 ½ cups vanilla ice cream; 1/3 cup creme de menthe; 1/3 cup creme de cocoa; 10 ice cubes; 10 Andes mints; 3-4 ounces bar chocolate; Whipped cream; Chocolate syrup

This sensational Grasshopper Drink is the perfect blend of creamy vanilla, refreshing mint, and decadent chocolate that will transport your taste buds to dessert heaven! With its striking emerald color and chocolate-rimmed glass, this boozy milkshake is not just delicious but also a showstopper at any gathering. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s the perfect indulgence when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Visually Stunning: The beautiful mint-green color contrasted with chocolate rim and whipped cream creates a drink that’s as gorgeous as it is delicious.
Perfect Balance: The combination of mint and chocolate flavors creates that classic grasshopper taste that’s refreshing yet indulgent.
Quick Indulgence: Takes just 20 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for impromptu gatherings or when you need a special treat after a long day.
Customizable: Easily adjust the alcohol content or make it alcohol-free for different preferences and occasions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Vanilla ice cream: Forms the creamy base of the drink, giving it that smooth milkshake texture that makes this drink so indulgent.
Crème de menthe: The star ingredient that provides both the signature mint flavor and beautiful green color. This liqueur is what gives the grasshopper its name and distinctive character.
Crème de cacao: Adds a rich chocolate undertone that perfectly complements the mint flavor. Try to use the clear variety to maintain the drink’s vibrant green color.
Ice cubes: Help thicken the drink and keep it cold without watering it down too much. Add more or fewer depending on your desired thickness.
Andes mints: These chocolate-mint candies intensify the flavor profile and add little bursts of mint-chocolate goodness throughout the drink.
Bar chocolate: Creates that impressive chocolate-dipped rim that elevates this drink from casual to sophisticated. Dark chocolate works beautifully for contrast.
Whipped cream: Adds a cloud-like topping that completes the dessert-drink experience and provides a beautiful canvas for garnishes.
Chocolate syrup: Drizzle over the whipped cream for an elegant finishing touch and extra chocolate flavor in every sip.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Non-Alcoholic Version

Replace the liqueurs with mint extract (1-2 teaspoons) and chocolate syrup. Add a drop of green food coloring to achieve the signature look.

Chocolate Lover’s Grasshopper

Double the crème de cacao and add 2 tablespoons of chocolate syrup directly to the blender for an extra chocolatey experience.

Grasshopper Coffee Drink

Add 1/4 cup of cold brew coffee concentrate to the blender for a mint-mocha twist that’s perfect for coffee lovers.

Vegan Grasshopper

Substitute the vanilla ice cream with high-quality coconut or cashew-based ice cream alternatives and use dairy-free whipped cream.

How to Make the Grasshopper Drink

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Rim

Break 3 ounces of bar chocolate into pieces in a small bowl. Melt 1/2 cup of vanilla ice cream in the microwave until bubbling, then pour it over the chocolate. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until smooth. Dip the rim of each glass into the chocolate, allowing excess to drip off. Turn glasses upright and let the chocolate set for about 15 minutes.

Step 2: Blend the Drink

Add 4 cups of vanilla ice cream, crème de menthe, crème de cacao, broken Andes mints, and ice cubes to your blender. Blend on high until the mixture is smooth and frothy with a beautiful mint-green color.

Step 3: Adjust Consistency

If the mixture seems too runny, add a few more ice cubes and blend again. The perfect grasshopper has a thick milkshake consistency that’s still pourable.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

Pour the blended mixture into your chocolate-rimmed glasses. Top with a generous swirl of whipped cream, a drizzle of chocolate syrup, and Andes mint shavings for a professional touch.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Chill Your Glasses: Place your serving glasses in the freezer for 15 minutes before preparing the chocolate rim for an extra-cold treat.
Quality Matters: Use good quality ice cream for the best texture and flavor – the cheaper varieties often contain more air and less cream.
Liqueur Substitutions: If you don’t have crème de menthe, substitute with peppermint schnapps and a drop of green food coloring.
Blend in Pulses: Instead of running your blender continuously, pulse it to prevent the ice cream from melting too much and keeping your drink thick.
Chocolate Rim Technique: For an even more impressive rim, after dipping in chocolate, immediately roll the edge in crushed Andes mints or chocolate sprinkles before letting it set.

How to Serve

Perfect Pairings

Serve alongside a plate of chocolate cookies, brownies, or dark chocolate truffles for a dessert experience that will have everyone talking.

Special Occasions

This drink makes a stunning addition to St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, holiday parties, or after-dinner dessert cocktails for dinner parties.

Presentation Ideas

Serve in martini glasses or large wine glasses for an elegant presentation. For a fun twist, serve in mason jars with colorful straws for casual gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Preparing Components Ahead

The chocolate-rimmed glasses can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in the refrigerator, being careful not to disturb the chocolate rim.

Storing Leftovers

While best enjoyed fresh, any leftover blended mixture can be stored in the freezer in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It will become more solid, turning into a scoop-able dessert rather than a drinkable treat.

Reheating

To return frozen leftovers to drinking consistency, let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes, then re-blend with a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe without alcohol?

Absolutely! Substitute the crème de menthe with 1-2 teaspoons of mint extract and a drop of green food coloring. Replace the crème de cacao with chocolate syrup. You’ll get all the flavor without the alcohol, making it perfect for everyone to enjoy.
Why is my Grasshopper Drink too thin?

This usually happens if your ice cream was too soft or you didn’t use enough ice. Try adding more ice cubes and re-blending, or add an extra scoop of ice cream. You can also place the blended mixture in the freezer for 15 minutes to firm it up before serving.
Can I prepare this drink in advance for a party?

I don’t recommend blending the drink far in advance as it will lose its frothy texture and melt. However, you can prepare the chocolate-rimmed glasses ahead of time and have all ingredients measured and ready to blend right before serving. For parties, consider making batches as needed throughout the evening.
Is there a way to make this drink less sweet?

Yes! Use less vanilla ice cream and add a bit more ice to maintain the volume. You could also use good-quality vanilla gelato, which typically has less sugar than commercial ice cream. For the adults, increasing the liqueur slightly will also cut the sweetness while adding more mint-chocolate flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Grasshopper Drink recipe takes a classic cocktail and transforms it into a dessert experience that’s sure to impress. The perfect balance of mint and chocolate flavors wrapped in a creamy, indulgent package makes this drink ideal for special occasions or simply treating yourself after a long week. The chocolate-rimmed glass adds that touch of elegance that elevates this from a simple milkshake to a sophisticated dessert cocktail. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a special treat, this Grasshopper Drink delivers both in presentation and flavor!