Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Grasshopper Pie offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors. The chocolate crust provides a perfect base, while the creamy mint filling gives it a cool, refreshing taste. Topped with a glossy chocolate ganache, this no-bake pie is simple to prepare but looks and tastes spectacular. It's an ideal treat to make ahead for a party or holiday gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 (9-inch) chocolate cookie crust
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (8-ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed
- ½ cup creme de menthe liqueur
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Crust: In a bowl, mix the chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch pie pan to form a crust. Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the thawed whipped topping and mix until combined. Gradually add the creme de menthe liqueur and heavy cream, and continue beating until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. Pour the filling into the chilled crust and smooth the top.
- Prepare the Ganache: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chocolate chips, stirring until smooth. Pour the ganache over the pie and spread evenly across the top.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until the filling is set. Slice and serve chilled.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8-10
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: None (Refrigeration time: 4 hours)
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Variations
- Mint Extract: If you don’t have creme de menthe liqueur, you can substitute with mint extract mixed with a bit of water for the mint flavor.
- Different Crust: Use a graham cracker crust for a lighter flavor or even a nut-based crust for some crunch.
- Chocolate Chips: You can add a few extra chocolate chips to the filling for more texture and richness.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This pie freezes well; wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Let it thaw before serving.
FAQs
Can I make this pie without alcohol?
Yes, you can substitute the creme de menthe with mint extract for a non-alcoholic version.
How can I make the crust more flavorful?
Add a bit of cocoa powder or cinnamon to the cookie crust for an extra touch of flavor.
Can I use real whipped cream instead of whipped topping?
Yes, real whipped cream can be used instead of the frozen whipped topping for a richer flavor.
How long does this pie need to chill?
For the best results, refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours or overnight to ensure the filling sets properly.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, this pie is great to make ahead. It can be prepared a day before and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
Is this pie suitable for vegans?
You can modify the recipe using dairy-free substitutes, such as vegan whipped topping and a dairy-free crust, to make it vegan-friendly.
How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?
Be sure to press the crust into the pan firmly and chill it before adding the filling to ensure it stays crisp.
What if I don’t have a pie pan?
You can make this dessert in a tart pan or even as individual mini pies using small tartlet pans.
Can I add more mint flavor?
You can adjust the mint flavor by adding a little extra creme de menthe or mint extract, depending on your preference.
How do I make this pie less sweet?
To reduce sweetness, use bittersweet chocolate chips for the ganache and cut back on the amount of sugar in the crust and filling.
Conclusion
Creme de Menthe Grasshopper Pie is a delightful, refreshing dessert that combines creamy mint filling with a rich chocolate ganache topping. Perfect for any occasion, this pie is a crowd-pleaser and can be made ahead for easy entertaining. Whether for a holiday or just a special treat, it's sure to be a hit at your next gathering!
Grasshopper Pie
- Total Time: 4 hours 20minutes
- Yield: 8 Servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creme de Menthe Grasshopper Pie is a creamy, minty dessert with a buttery chocolate cookie crust, smooth creme de menthe filling, and a rich chocolate ganache topping. This no-bake pie is the perfect balance of mint and chocolate flavors, ideal for St. Patrick’s Day or any special occasion. Easy to prepare and make ahead, it’s a refreshing and indulgent treat that will delight your guests!
Ingredients
- 1 (9-inch) chocolate cookie crust
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (8-ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed
- ½ cup creme de menthe liqueur
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a bowl, mix the chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch pie pan to form a crust. Refrigerate the crust while you prepare the filling.
- Make the Filling: Beat the softened cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth. Add the thawed whipped topping and mix until combined. Gradually add the creme de menthe liqueur and heavy cream, continuing to beat until smooth and fluffy. Pour the filling into the chilled crust and smooth the top.
- Prepare the Ganache: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and stir in the chocolate chips until smooth. Pour the ganache over the pie and spread it evenly across the top.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until the filling is set. Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
- Mint Extract Substitute: If you don’t have creme de menthe, use mint extract mixed with a little water for the mint flavor.
- Crust Variations: Swap the chocolate cookie crust for a graham cracker crust or even a nut-based crust for different flavors and textures.
- Add Extra Chocolate Chips: Stir in a few chocolate chips into the filling for added richness.
- Prep Time: 20minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
