Mini Grasshopper Pies are charming, individual-sized versions of the classic mint-chocolate dessert. With a buttery cookie crust and a smooth, creamy mint filling, these no-bake pies are as visually appealing as they are delicious. Topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, they’re a refreshing, festive treat perfect for parties, holidays, or anytime you want a touch of cool indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No-bake and easy to prepare
- Refreshing mint flavor with a chocolatey twist
- Elegant individual portions
- Ideal for parties, St. Patrick’s Day, or special occasions
- Light, creamy texture with a buttery crust
- Customizable toppings
- Can be made ahead
- Eye-catching presentation
- Kid-friendly
- A fun twist on a vintage dessert favorite
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Chocolate or vanilla sandwich cookies (for crust)
- Unsalted butter (melted)
- Cream cheese (softened)
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Peppermint extract
- Green food coloring
- Whipped topping or whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings or curls (for garnish)
directions
- Prepare the Crust: Crush the cookies into fine crumbs and combine with melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of lined muffin tins. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
- Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the sweetened condensed milk, peppermint extract, and green food coloring. Mix until fully combined and creamy.
- Assemble: Spoon the filling over the prepared crusts in each muffin cup, smoothing the tops with a spatula or spoon.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 2–4 hours, or until set.
- Garnish and Serve: Top each mini pie with a dollop of whipped cream and chocolate shavings just before serving. Remove the liners and place on serving plates.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 12 mini pies.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Chill time: 2–4 hours
Total time: approximately 2 hours 20 minutes
Variations
- Oreo Crust: Use chocolate sandwich cookies for a more decadent crust.
- Chocolate Mint: Fold in mini chocolate chips to the filling for texture.
- Mint Liqueur: Add crème de menthe for an adult version (reduce peppermint extract).
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cookies for the crust.
- Chocolate Ganache Topping: Add a layer of ganache before chilling for a richer finish.
- Frozen Version: Freeze the pies and serve as frozen mint desserts for warmer days.
storage/reheating
Store mini grasshopper pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
If desired, they may also be frozen (without whipped cream topping) for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Do not reheat—these are meant to be served chilled or cold.
FAQs
What gives Grasshopper Pie its green color?
Green food coloring is used to give the pie its signature minty green hue.
Can I use fresh mint instead of peppermint extract?
Fresh mint does not provide as concentrated a flavor as extract, but mint-infused cream could be used as an alternative.
Is Grasshopper Pie traditionally made with alcohol?
The classic version often includes crème de menthe liqueur, but this recipe is non-alcoholic.
Can I make these mini pies ahead of time?
Yes, they are perfect for making a day or two in advance. Just add the whipped topping right before serving.
What kind of cookies work best for the crust?
Chocolate or vanilla sandwich cookies, or graham crackers, work well depending on your flavor preference.
Can I use food gel instead of liquid coloring?
Yes, food gel can be used. It’s more concentrated, so only a small amount is needed.
How do I remove them from the muffin tin neatly?
Using cupcake liners makes removal easy. Chill thoroughly before unwrapping.
Can I freeze mini Grasshopper Pies?
Yes, they freeze well without the whipped topping. Add fresh toppings after thawing.
Are these suitable for children?
Absolutely, as long as the version is alcohol-free.
Can I use whipped cream instead of whipped topping?
Yes, freshly whipped cream adds a rich, homemade touch.
Conclusion
Mini Grasshopper Pies are a delightful twist on a retro classic, offering a minty, creamy, and chocolatey dessert experience in a convenient single-serving size. Perfect for any celebration or after-dinner treat, these no-bake mini pies are easy to prepare, visually striking, and sure to please both mint lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike.
Print
Mini Grasshopper Pies
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes + chilling
- Yield: 12 mini pies
- Category: Desserts
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Mini Grasshopper Pies are creamy, minty, and irresistibly charming with their signature green hue. Made in cupcake form for easy serving, they combine the cool taste of mint with a chocolate cookie or graham cracker crust—perfect for St. Patrick’s Day, holidays, or mint-chocolate lovers.
Ingredients
Crust:
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1 cup graham cracker or chocolate cookie crumbs
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3 tablespoons melted butter
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1 tablespoon sugar
Filling:
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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1/3 cup granulated sugar
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1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
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A few drops of green food coloring (optional)
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1/2 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
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1/4 cup crème de menthe or mint syrup (optional, based on preference)
Topping:
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Extra whipped topping
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Chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips
Instructions
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Line a muffin tin with paper cupcake liners.
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In a bowl, mix the crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press about 1 tablespoon into each liner to form the crust. Chill while making the filling.
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Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Mix in peppermint extract and food coloring.
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Fold in the crème de menthe (if using) and whipped topping until light and fluffy.
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Spoon the filling over each crust and smooth the tops.
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Chill for at least 2 hours or until firm.
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Top each with a dollop of whipped topping and sprinkle with chocolate shavings.
Notes
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You can swap graham crackers for chocolate cookies for a deeper flavor.
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For a non-alcoholic version, use mint syrup or extract only.
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Freeze for a more ice cream-like texture!
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