Grasshopper Pie

Name: Grasshopper Pie
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 265 min
Ingredients: 2 cups finely ground Oreo chocolate cookies, (approximately 24 cookies); 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, (melted); ⅔ cup whole milk; 26 large marshmallows, (approximately 6 ounces); 3 tablespoons green crème de menthe liqueur; 2 tablespoons clear creme de cacao; 2 to 3 drops green food coloring, (optional); 1 cup heavy whipping cream, (very cold); 2 to 3 crushed Oreo cookies

Grasshopper pie is a cool and refreshing dessert featuring a creamy mint filling and a crisp chocolate crust. Quick to prepare and perfect for any gathering, this nostalgic treat is sure to be a crowd favorite.

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Prep Time15

Cook Time10

Total Time4 25

Servings

Table of Contents

Grasshopper Pie Ingredients
Grasshopper Mint Pie Substitutions and Additions
How To Make This Grasshopper Pie Recipe
Troubleshooting Tips For This Recipe for Grasshopper Pie
How To Serve Chocolate Mint Grasshopper Pie
How To Store The Best Grasshopper Pie
Why This Grasshopper Pie Recipe Is The Best
Frequently Asked Questions
More Of Our Favorite Pies
JUMP TO RECIPE
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This grasshopper pie recipe has a refreshing mint flavor balanced by the richness of chocolate. The filling is creamy and smooth, while the chocolate crust adds a satisfying crunch.

A Grasshopper Pie with a slice being lifted out.

Grasshopper pie is one of those desserts that has long evoked a sense of nostalgia. Originally popularized in the 1950s, this pie has stood the test of time — and for good reason. As it’s been passed down through the years, each generation adds their own special touch. We’re excited to carry on that tradition and share our version of this cherished treat with you.

Through our recipe development and testing process, we fine tuned our approach to melting marshmallows and whipping the cream to create a no bake pie filling that’s light and airy. Coupled with a classic, buttery Oreo crust recipe and a tasty decorative finish, it’s a pie that’s sure to have your and your guests asking for seconds.

We hope this recipe creates fond memories at your family’s table, just as it has at ours.

To make this grasshopper pie without alcohol, see our substitutions section below.

Grasshopper Pie Ingredients

Raw ingredients to make grasshopper pie.

Using key ingredients like creme de menthe and creme de cacao, we’ve ensured the classic flavor of this grasshopper pie remains true to its roots.

It’s an addictive blend of cool, minty freshness and rich, chocolatey crunch thanks to a creme de menthe filling and an Oreo cookie crust. Your dessert will be reminiscent of mint chocolate chip ice cream, but with a more luscious, dessert-like consistency.

You’ll need:

2 cups finely ground Oreo cookie crumbs
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
⅔ cup whole milk
26 large marshmallows
3 tablespoons green creme de menthe liqueur
2 tablespoons clear creme de cacao
2-3 drops green food coloring (optional)
1 cup heavy whipping cream, very cold

Garnish:

2-3 Oreo cookies, roughly crushed

Grasshopper Mint Pie Substitutions and Additions

If you need to make adjustments based on what you have on hand or to suit your taste, there are plenty of ways to customize this grasshopper pie. Below are some suggestions for substitutions and additions that can help you adapt the recipe to your needs while still delivering a delicious result.

Keep in mind that any changes might affect the consistency and taste of your pie, so feel free to experiment, but do so with that in mind.

Marshmallows: If you only have mini marshmallows, they can be used instead of large marshmallows. Just make sure you measure by weight—6 ounces total.

Green Creme de Menthe Liqueur: If you want a non alcoholic grasshopper pie, substitute with ¾ teaspoon of peppermint extract and add a bit more green food coloring to achieve the desired shade. Keep in mind, the flavor will differ slightly from the original recipe.

Clear Creme de Cacao: You can find non-alcoholic creme de cacao at your liquor store or grocery store, to add a similar flavor without the alcohol.

Chocolate Cream Cookie Crumbs: If you can’t find Oreo cookies, any brand of chocolate cream cookies will work. Just avoid double-stuffed or thin versions as they can affect the crust’s texture.

You might also be able to find pre-crushed Oreo cookie crumbs in your supermarket which will make this recipe even easier to make.

Green Food Coloring: This is optional and only needed if you want a more vibrant color. You can skip it if you’re okay with the natural color from the creme de menthe.

Green gel food coloring will work, but is more difficult to mix into the filling without deflating the whipped cream, so we recommend mixing it into the marshmallows as they’re melting instead.

How To Make This Grasshopper Pie Recipe

Desserts should never be stressful, especially when they’re this delicious. This grasshopper pie recipe is as easy as it gets—minimal baking, and no complicated steps. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe is foolproof, even if it’s your first attempt.

A key indicator that your grasshopper pie is just as it should be is that the filling is rich and creamy, but still airy and light for that refreshing consistency you remember.

From melting the marshmallows just right to achieving the perfect consistency of whipped cream, our detailed instructions will help make sure your filling is exactly as it should be.

STEP ONE: Before you begin, preheat your oven. If necessary, grind your Oreo cookies in a food processor until they are fine crumbs. You can also place the Oreos in a Ziploc bag and pound them with the flat size of a meat mallet, but this method will take a bit longer.

STEP TWO: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the finely ground chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter. The key here is to mix until they resemble wet sand.

PRO TIP: Getting the right consistency is crucial for a firm crust that won’t crumble too easily once set. Add the melted butter slowly. You may not need all of it, or you may find you need just a bit more to achieve that ‘wet-sand’ consistency.

finely ground chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter combined in a bowl

STEP THREE: Press the chocolate cookie mixture evenly into a freezer-safe pie plate to form the crust.

PRO TIP: Use the back of a flat spoon or the bottom of a flat glass or measuring cup to press the mixture firmly into your pie plate. You want to compress the crust so that it sticks firmly together, but not so packed down that it becomes hard and dense.

The cookie crumb crust for the grasshopper pie is in a glass pie plate.

STEP FOUR: Once your crust mixture is evenly spread across the pie plate, bake it for 10 minutes. After baking, allow the crust to cool completely on the counter. It’s important to fully cool the crust because otherwise, the filling will melt when you add it to the pie plate.

STEP FIVE: While the crust cools, warm the whole milk in a large saucepan over medium heat. Be sure to stir often and watch carefully that it doesn’t boil—just until it starts to steam.

The milk and marshmallows are mixed together.

STEP SIX: Add the large marshmallows to the warm milk, stirring continuously. Keep stirring until all marshmallows are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.

STEP SEVEN: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the marshmallow mixture cool to room temperature. Stirring occasionally will help it cool evenly and prevent a skin from forming on the surface.

STEP EIGHT: In a large mixing bowl, whip the very cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.

PRO TIP: Ensure your cream is very cold before whipping; this makes it easier to achieve the stiff peaks needed for the right texture in your filling.

STEP NINE: Once the marshmallow mixture is cool, stir in the green creme de menthe liqueur and clear creme de cacao. Then, add the green food coloring and combine gently until the color is uniform.

green creme de menthe liqueur and clear creme de cacao added to the marshmallow mixture

STEP TEN: Gently fold the marshmallow mixture into the whipped cream until fully incorporated. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream, as this step is key to maintaining the light, airy texture of the filling.

marshmallow mixture added to the whipped cream in a bowl

STEP ELEVEN: Pour the combined filling into the cooled crust, smoothing the top to create an even surface.

STEP TWELVE: Sprinkle the roughly crushed chocolate cookie crumbs over the top for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy filling.

crushed chocolate cookie crumbs sprinkled over the top of the pie

STEP THIRTEEN: Then freeze the pie for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight, to allow the filling to set properly.

Troubleshooting Tips For This Recipe for Grasshopper Pie

Chill Your Mixing Bowl and Whisk: Before whipping the cream, place your mixing bowl and whisk attachments in the freezer for about 10 minutes. This helps the cream whip up more quickly and achieve those stiff peaks.
Crush Cookies in Small Batches: A food processor works really well for crushing your cookies. If you’re using a Ziploc bag and rolling pin instead, work in small batches to get more even crumbs.
Use a Silicone Spatula for Folding: When folding the whipped cream into the marshmallow mixture, a silicone spatula works best as it flexes easily and helps prevent overmixing, which can deflate the cream.
Avoid Overheating the Marshmallow Mixture: When melting the marshmallows, be cautious not to overheat. Once the marshmallows are just melted, remove the pan from the heat immediately to prevent the mixture from becoming too sticky and difficult to incorporate later.
Check the Filling Consistency Before Freezing: After you’ve mixed the filling, it should be light and fluffy, but still hold its shape. If it seems too loose, give it a few more gentle folds to incorporate any remaining whipped cream.
Wrap the Pie Plate Tightly Before Freezing: To prevent freezer burn of your boozy pie, wrap the entire pie plate tightly with plastic wrap before placing it in the freezer. This keeps the filling from absorbing any unwanted flavors from your freezer.

How To Serve Chocolate Mint Grasshopper Pie

Whether you’re hosting a party or simply enjoying a slice after a family dinner, this Creme de Menthe pie is sure to be a refreshing end to your meal. Here are some ideas for how you can serve it:

Classic Presentation: Serve your grasshopper pie straight from the freezer, ensuring it’s nice and cold. Slice it neatly using a hot, dry knife for clean cuts, and present it on a chilled dessert plate to keep it from melting too quickly.

Dress It Up: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on each slice adds an extra layer of creaminess. A drizzle of homemade hot fudge will contrast the coldness of the grasshopper pie perfectly.

Holiday Dessert Table: This pie is a great addition to any holiday dessert spread, especially at Christmastime, since its minty flavor is reminiscent of candy canes. Serve it alongside other classic desserts like pumpkin pie or apple crisp so there’s a treat at the table everyone will love.

Frozen Dessert Buffet: For a summer gathering, consider serving grasshopper pie as part of a frozen dessert buffet. Pair it with other chilled treats like homemade ice cream, strawberry sorbet, and ice cream pie. The combination of different textures and flavors will be a hit, offering a cool relief from the heat.

The refreshing flavor and creamy texture of this grasshopper pie make it an ideal choice for almost any time of year. Perfect for a family dessert, it’s also ideal on holidays like St. Patrick’s Day, Easter, or the 4th of July.

If you have a mint lover in the family, this easy dessert makes a terrific birthday cake, and it’s a delicious addition to any potluck gathering or office party.

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How To Store The Best Grasshopper Pie

Properly storing your grasshopper pie is key to keeping it fresh, whether you’re making it ahead of time or saving leftovers. Here’s how to store it to keep it as fresh and delicious as possible.

MAKE AHEAD: You can prepare the entire pie, including the crust and filling in advance. While your pie can be frozen for up to a few months, we recommend serving it fresh if possible, within a day or two of making it, for the best flavor and texture.

Once assembled, simply cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap and keep it in the freezer until you’re ready to serve.

IN THE FRIDGE: Grasshopper pie is best stored in the freezer. We don’t recommend storing this pie in the fridge.

IN THE FREEZER: Keep your grasshopper pie in the freezer to maintain its texture. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and then add a layer of aluminum foil for extra protection. The pie can be kept in the freezer for up to two months. Let your pie sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to allow the filling to soften slightly.

Why This Grasshopper Pie Recipe Is The Best

Grasshopper pie offers a refreshing blend of mint and chocolate, creating a dessert that’s both nostalgic and satisfying.

Here’s why we love this vintage recipe, and we’re sure you’ll love it, too:

Mint Chocolate Combo: Enjoy the classic pairing of mint and chocolate that never disappoints.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and have dessert ready when you are.

Crowd Pleaser: Its creamy texture and vibrant color make it a hit at plenty of gatherings.

Versatile Serving: Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or just because—this pie fits every occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this grasshopper mint Oreo pie without the alcohol?

Yes, you can make this grasshopper pie without alcohol. Use ¾ teaspoon of peppermint extract instead of Creme de Menthe. You can replace the creme de cacao with a non-alcoholic creme de cacao for a similar flavor.

Do I need to add food coloring to grasshopper pie?

No, the food coloring in your grasshopper pie is optional. The pie will still taste great without it, but the color may be less vibrant.

What’s the best way to crush the cookies for the easy pie crust?

To crush your Oreo cookies, a food processor works best, but you can also use a zip-top bag and a rolling pin or meat mallet.

How long does grasshopper pie need to freeze before serving?

You will need to freeze your grasshopper pie for at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal for the best texture.

Can I use a different type of cookie for the grasshopper pie crust?

Yes, you can use a different kind of cookie to make your grasshopper pie crust. Any chocolate cream cookie will work, but avoid double-stuffed or thin varieties.

My marshmallows aren’t melting smoothly. What should I do?

To help you marshmallows melt smoothly, stir them constantly over medium heat until fully melted, and make sure the milk doesn’t overheat.

How do I know when the whipped cream has reached stiff peaks?

You’ll know the whipped cream has reached the ‘stiff peak’ consistency when the cream holds its shape if you lift the whisk out of the bowl.

Can I use a store-bought crust to make grasshopper pie?

Yes, you can use a pre-made chocolate pie crust. This is a convenient option for a grasshopper pie if you’re short on time.

What’s the best way to slice a frozen grasshopper pie?

To slice a frozen grasshopper pie, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean, smooth slices.

Can I add other toppings to my grasshopper pie?

Absolutely, you can add fresh mint leaves, crushed peppermint candies, or chocolate shavings to your grasshopper pie.

This grasshopper pie is a nostalgic dessert that delivers the perfect balance of creamy mint and crunchy chocolate, with a texture that stays velvety even after freezing. Whether for a holiday or celebration, or just as an indulgent after-dinner treat, this recipe stands out with its fresh flavor and satisfying crunch.

A piece of Grasshopper Pie on a white plate with a fork.

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Grasshopper Pie

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 10

Total Time 4 25

Servings

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Ingredients

2 cups finely ground Oreo chocolate cookies, approximately 24 cookies
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
⅔ cup whole milk
26 large marshmallows, approximately 6 ounces
3 tablespoons green crème de menthe liqueur
2 tablespoons clear creme de cacao
2 to 3 drops green food coloring, optional
1 cup heavy whipping cream, very cold

Garnish

2 to 3 crushed Oreo cookies

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F.
In a medium mixing bowl, stir together the finely ground chocolate cookie crumbs and melted unsalted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
Press the chocolate cookie mixture evenly into a 9-inch, freezer safe pie plate to form a crust. Use the flat bottom of a small glass or dry measuring cup to create a tightly packed crust on the bottom and up the sides of the pie plate.
Bake the crust for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow the crust to cool completely on the counter while you prepare the grasshopper pie filling.
To a large, 3 quart saucepan on medium heat, add the whole milk. Warm the milk for 2-3 minutes or just until the milk starts to steam and bubbles start to form around the edges of the saucepan. Do not bring the milk to a boil. Be sure to stir the milk often to prevent it from burning.
Add the marshmallows to the hot milk. Using a rubber spatula or wooden spoon, stir the marshmallows in the hot milk until they are completely melted and no lumps from the marshmallows remain. Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the marshmallow mixture to cool completely to room temperature, while stirring often, before adding the rest of the ingredients.
To a large mixing bowl, add the very cold heavy cream. Beat the cream using a handheld mixer on medium-high speed, for 2-3 minutes or until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
To the cooled marshmallow mixture, add the green creme de menthe liqueur and clear creme de cacao. Stir to fully incorporate. Add the green food coloring drops (if using them) and stir until the mixture is smooth and uniform in color.
Slowly add the cooled marshmallow mixture to the whipped cream and gently fold the mixture to fully incorporate the marshmallow, being careful not to deflate to whipped cream too much. Fold until no white streaks remains and the grasshopper pie filling is smooth and fluffy.
Pour the grasshopper pie filling into the cooled chocolate pie crust and smooth the top to an even layer.
Garnish with the roughly crushed chocolate cookie crumbles.
Freeze the grasshopper pie for a minimum of 4 hours or up to overnight. You want the filling to be very firm and fully set up before slicing and serving.

Notes

Chill Your Mixing Bowl and Whisk: Before whipping the cream, place your mixing bowl and whisk attachments in the freezer for about 10 minutes. This helps the cream whip up more quickly and achieve those stiff peaks.
Crush Cookies in Small Batches: A food processor works really well for crushing your cookies. If you’re using a Ziploc bag and rolling pin instead, work in small batches to get more even crumbs.
Use a Silicone Spatula for Folding: When folding the whipped cream into the marshmallow mixture, a silicone spatula works best as it flexes easily and helps prevent overmixing, which can deflate the cream.
Avoid Overheating the Marshmallow Mixture: When melting the marshmallows, be cautious not to overheat. Once the marshmallows are just melted, remove the pan from the heat immediately to prevent the mixture from becoming too sticky and difficult to incorporate later.
Check the Filling Consistency Before Freezing: After you’ve mixed the filling, it should be light and fluffy, but still hold its shape. If it seems too loose, give it a few more gentle folds to incorporate any remaining whipped cream.
Wrap the Pie Plate Tightly Before Freezing: To prevent freezer burn, wrap the entire pie plate tightly with plastic wrap before placing it in the freezer. This keeps the filling from absorbing any unwanted flavors from your freezer.

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Proudly Prepared by the Spaceships Kitchen

This recipe was developed, tested, cooked and photographed by the Spaceships Kitchen. From our dinner table to yours, we hope you think it's out of this world!

Stephanie Keeping Publisher
Layne Kangas Marketing
Lenore Ortyl Editorial Director
Lexus Monroe Editorial Assistant

Grasshopper Pie

Grasshopper Pie Ingredients

Grasshopper Mint Pie Substitutions and Additions

How To Make This Grasshopper Pie Recipe

Troubleshooting Tips For This Recipe for Grasshopper Pie

How To Serve Chocolate Mint Grasshopper Pie

Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie

Pumpkin Pie

How To Store The Best Grasshopper Pie

Why This Grasshopper Pie Recipe Is The Best

Frequently Asked Questions

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