Grasshopper Cake Mix Cookies
Grasshopper Cake Mix Cookies are a fun and easy treat that combines the minty freshness of a classic grasshopper cocktail with the simplicity of cake mix. These cookies are soft…
Tip: save now, cook later.Grasshopper Cake Mix Cookies are a fun and easy treat that combines the minty freshness of a classic grasshopper cocktail with the simplicity of cake mix. These cookies are soft and chewy with a light green hue and a subtle hint of mint that brightens every bite. If you love the idea of a dessert that looks a bit whimsical but only takes a few minutes to throw together, these are for you.
I always keep a box of mint-flavored cake mix on hand whenever I feel like baking something quick but special. Mixing it with just a few basic ingredients and adding white chocolate chips or crushed mint candies turns the whole thing into a delightful snack. I love how easy these cookies are to customize, so you can make them more chocolatey or extra minty depending on your mood.
The best way I like to enjoy these cookies is fresh out of the oven with a cold glass of milk or a cup of hot tea. They’re perfect for sharing with friends or packing in lunchboxes because they stay soft and tasty for days. Whenever I serve them, people always ask for the recipe, which makes me feel like I’ve shared a little bit of magic from my kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Devil’s Food Cake Mix: This gives the cookies a rich chocolate flavor and moist texture. You can swap it for any chocolate cake mix you like. For a sharper cocoa taste, try Dutch-processed cocoa cakes.
Mint-Flavored Cake Mix: It brings the fresh mint flavor and that pretty green color. If you can’t find mint cake mix, use vanilla with peppermint extract or add finely chopped mint candies for similar flavor.
Mini Chocolate and Mint Chips: These add extra bursts of chocolate and mint in each bite. White chocolate chips colored with green food coloring work well as a mint chip substitute.
Peppermint Extract: Just a splash brightens the mint flavor without overpowering the cookie. Start small—you can always add a bit more if you want it stronger.
How Do You Get the Perfect Two-Toned Cookie Without the Dough Mixing?
To keep the layers distinct, gently press the mint dough onto the chocolate dough without overworking them:
- Scoop each dough separately in roughly the same sized balls.
- Flatten the chocolate dough slightly on your hand or pan.
- Lightly press the mint dough on top to form one cookie ball.
- Don’t over-handle or knead the two doughs together, or they will blend colors and lose the layered look.
Baking at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes helps the cookies set with soft centers while keeping the layers visible. Let the cookies cool just a bit before moving them to avoid breaks. Finally, a light drizzle of melted chocolate adds a nice glossy finish and extra flavor punch.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheets – flat and sturdy for even baking and easy cookie release.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats – keep cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
- Mixing bowls (2) – you’ll want separate bowls to keep the chocolate and mint doughs apart.
- Spoons or cookie scoop – helps portion dough evenly for consistent cookie size.
- Microwave-safe bowl – for melting chocolate to drizzle without any hassle.
- Wire cooling rack – cools cookies evenly and prevents soggy bottoms.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try swapping peppermint extract for orange or almond extract for a different twist on the mint flavor.
- Add chopped Andes mints or crushed peppermint candies into the dough for extra mint crunch.
- Mix in mini white chocolate chips instead of mint chips for a sweeter, creamier taste.
- Fold in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added texture and nutty flavor.
How to Make Grasshopper Cake Mix Cookies?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chocolate Cookie Layer:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) devil’s food chocolate cake mix
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- ¼ cup mini chocolate chips
For the Mint Cookie Layer:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) mint-flavored cake mix (green color works great)
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- ½ cup mint chips (or white chocolate chips colored green)
For the Chocolate Drizzle:
- 4 ounces semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10-12 minutes to bake per batch. Include a few minutes for cooling and drizzling melted chocolate on top. Overall, you can expect around 30-40 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheets:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
2. Make the Chocolate Cookie Dough:
In a large bowl, stir together the devil’s food cake mix, 1 egg, ¼ cup vegetable oil, and half of the mini chocolate chips. Mix until you get a smooth dough. This will be the base layer of your cookies.
3. Make the Mint Cookie Dough:
In a separate bowl, combine the mint cake mix, the remaining egg, ¼ cup vegetable oil, peppermint extract, and the mint chips. Mix well until fully combined, forming the mint layer dough.
4. Assemble the Cookies:
Use a spoon or cookie scoop to scoop about a tablespoon of the chocolate dough. Flatten it slightly with your hands or a spatula. Then, take roughly the same amount of the mint dough and gently press it on top of the chocolate dough. Place the combined dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
5. Bake the Cookies:
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. The edges should be set, but the centers will still look soft. This keeps the cookies nice and chewy.
6. Cool and Drizzle:
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Meanwhile, melt the chopped chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth and glossy.
7. Add the Chocolate Drizzle and Serve:
Drizzle the melted chocolate over the cooled cookies with a spoon or fork. Let the chocolate set for a few minutes before serving. Then enjoy your soft, layered cookies with rich chocolate and fresh mint flavors!
Can I Use Regular Vanilla Cake Mix Instead of Mint?
Yes! If you don’t have mint-flavored cake mix, use vanilla cake mix and add 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the dough for that minty flavor. You can also fold in crushed peppermint candies or mint chips for extra freshness.
How Should I Store These Cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months—just thaw at room temperature before serving.
Can I Make the Dough Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare both doughs, shape the cookies, and keep them on a baking sheet covered with plastic wrap in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This can help improve the cookie texture as well.
What If I Don’t Have Mini Chocolate Chips or Mint Chips?
You can use regular-size chocolate or white chocolate chips, but chop them into smaller pieces to distribute evenly. Alternatively, small chunks of chocolate or chopped candy bars also work well in these cookies.
