Grasshopper Cookies
Grasshopper Cookies are delightful meringue-like treats with a hint of mint and chocolate, perfect for those who enjoy light, crisp cookies with a refreshing flavor. Their vibrant green color makes them a fun addition to any dessert platter or festive occasion, appealing to mint lovers and cookie enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Combine egg whites, sugar, cream of tartar, and salt in a mixing bowl and beat until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold in creme de menthe, chocolate chips, and green food coloring.
- Drop by teaspoonfuls onto foil-covered cookie sheets.
- Turn off the oven and leave the cookies inside overnight to dry out.
- Store in tins between layers of wax paper.
- Cookies may be frozen for longer storage.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use room temperature egg whites to help achieve the stiff peaks needed for the cookies. If you don't have crème de menthe, you can substitute with peppermint extract, but use it sparingly as it's more concentrated. Ensure the chocolate chips are semi-sweet for a balanced flavor, and consider adding a pinch of peppermint extract for extra minty depth.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are delightful as a sweet treat with coffee or tea. They also make a charming addition to dessert platters alongside other sweets like Nut Cups or Paintbrush Cookies. For a festive touch, serve them at holiday gatherings or special occasions, as their vibrant green color adds a fun element to any dessert table.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cookies in airtight tins lined with wax paper to prevent sticking. They can last for several weeks at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container. To enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grasshopper Cookies contains roughly 166 calories, with 2g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (106% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 524mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cookies without egg whites?
Substituting egg whites can be tricky since they provide structure. You can try using aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) as a vegan substitute, using about 3 tablespoons for each egg white. Whip it until foamy before incorporating it into the recipe.
What should I do if my cookies are too soft after drying?
If the cookies remain soft after drying overnight, try placing them back in a low oven (around 200°F) for about 30 minutes to help firm them up. Monitor closely to prevent browning, and let them cool completely before storing.
Can I add other flavors to the cookies?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with flavors like vanilla or almond extract in place of some of the crème de menthe for a different taste. You can also mix in chopped nuts or dried fruits for added texture and flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).