Grasshopper Cake Mix Cookies are soft, chewy mint-chocolate cookies made with cake mix for an easy, foolproof dessert. They deliver rich chocolate flavor, cool mint freshness, and a bakery-style texture with minimal effort.
These cookies are perfect for holidays, parties, bake sales, and last-minute cravings. They come together fast, require no chilling, and look stunning on dessert tables.
Why You’ll Love These Grasshopper Cake Mix Cookies
These cookies check every box for home bakers and dessert lovers alike.
First, they are incredibly easy. Using cake mix eliminates measuring errors and speeds up prep time.
Second, the texture is unbeatable. The cookies stay soft in the center with lightly crisp edges.
Third, the flavor combination is classic and irresistible. Mint and chocolate never fail.
In addition, they are visually striking. The soft mint-green color instantly catches attention.
Finally, they are flexible. You can customize them for different occasions or dietary needs.
These cookies feel indulgent yet approachable. They taste homemade while saving time.
What Are Grasshopper Cookies?
The classic Grasshopper dessert flavor profile inspires grasshopper cookies. That profile combines chocolate and mint, often with creamy elements.
The name comes from the famous Grasshopper cocktail and Grasshopper pie. Both feature mint and chocolate flavors. Over time, bakers adapted the combination into cookies, brownies, and cakes.
Grasshopper Cake Mix Cookies simplify the process. Instead of building dough from scratch, you start with a mint or chocolate-mint cake mix. The result is consistent, soft cookies every time.
Why Use Cake Mix for Cookies?
Cake mix cookies are popular for a reason.
Cake mix already contains flour, sugar, leavening, and flavoring. This balance creates a tender crumb and prevents dry cookies. It also reduces prep time significantly.
Because the mix is standardized, results are reliable. Even beginner bakers get bakery-style cookies.
Cake mix cookies also store well. They stay soft longer than many traditional cookies.
For busy home bakers, cake mix is a smart shortcut.
Ingredients for Grasshopper Cake Mix Cookies
These cookies require simple, accessible ingredients. Most are pantry staples.
Main Ingredients
- Mint chocolate cake mix
This forms the base of the dough. Choose a high-quality brand for best flavor. - Eggs
Eggs bind the dough and provide structure. - Neutral oil
Vegetable oil or canola oil keeps the cookies moist. - Chocolate chips
Semi-sweet or dark chocolate works best.
Optional Add-Ins
- Andes mint pieces
These enhance the mint flavor. - Crushed peppermint candies
Ideal for holiday versions. - Powdered sugar
Optional for rolling dough balls before baking. - Green food coloring
Use only if your cake mix is not already green.
Grasshopper Cake Mix Cookies — Exact Ingredients
Yield: about 22–24 cookies
Main Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 oz / 432 g) mint chocolate cake mix
(If using plain chocolate cake mix, see note below) - 2 large eggs, room temperature
- ½ cup (120 ml) neutral oil
(vegetable or canola oil) - ¾ cup (130 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
Optional Add-Ins (Highly Recommended)
- ½ cup (90 g) Andes mint baking pieces
or chopped Andes mints - ½ teaspoon peppermint extract (ONLY if using plain chocolate cake mix)
- ½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar (for rolling dough balls, optional)
- 2–3 drops green food coloring (only if cake mix is not green)
Substitution Notes
- Replace oil with ½ cup (113 g) melted unsalted butter for richer flavor.
- Use dark chocolate chips for a less sweet cookie.
- For milder mint flavor, reduce Andes mints to ⅓ cup (60 g).
Important Balance Tip
Do not add extra liquid beyond what’s listed. Cake mix cookies rely on precise moisture for soft centers and crackled tops.
Choosing the Best Cake Mix
The cake mix matters more than you might expect.
Look for a mint chocolate, chocolate mint, or devil’s food base with mint extract added. Some brands already include green coloring.
Avoid mixes with pudding added unless tested. They can change dough consistency.
Read labels carefully. Artificial mint flavors vary in intensity. If the mix smells overly strong, reduce added mint elements.
A good cake mix produces cookies with soft centers and defined cracks.
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
These cookies are highly adaptable.
Oil Substitutes
- Melted butter adds richness.
- Coconut oil adds subtle sweetness.
Egg Substitutes
- Use flax eggs for a plant-based version.
- Applesauce works but softens texture.
Chocolate Variations
- White chocolate chips add contrast.
- Dark chocolate chunks increase richness.
Mint Level Control
- Add peppermint extract sparingly.
- Reduce mint pieces if flavor feels strong.
Small changes allow you to customize every batch.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Grasshopper Cake Mix Cookies
This method is fast and beginner-friendly.
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Add the cake mix, eggs, and oil to a large mixing bowl. Stir until thick and smooth. The dough will be sticky.
Step 2: Add Chocolate
Fold in chocolate chips and optional mint pieces. Mix gently to avoid overworking the dough.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
Roll dough into balls using lightly oiled hands. Optionally roll in powdered sugar for a cracked finish.
Step 4: Arrange for Baking
Place dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Leave space between each cookie.
Step 5: Bake
Bake at 350°F (175°C) until edges set but centers remain soft. Do not overbake.
Step 6: Cool
Let cookies cool on the pan briefly. Transfer to a rack to finish cooling.
Baking Tips for Perfect Cookies
Small details make a big difference.
- Do not overmix the dough.
- Use a cookie scoop for even sizing.
- Remove cookies when centers look slightly underdone.
- Allow cookies to cool fully for best texture.
Cake mix cookies firm up as they cool. Trust the process.
Texture and Flavor Profile
These cookies are soft and chewy with rich chocolate flavor.
The mint is refreshing but not overpowering. Chocolate chips melt into the dough, creating pockets of gooey texture.
The edges are lightly crisp. The centers remain tender and fudgy.
Each bite feels indulgent yet balanced.
Serving Suggestions
Grasshopper Cake Mix Cookies shine on their own. They also pair beautifully with other desserts.
Serve them with:
- A glass of cold milk
- Hot chocolate
- Mint tea
- Vanilla ice cream
For parties, stack them on platters with other chocolate desserts. Their green color adds visual contrast.
Holiday and Seasonal Variations
These cookies adapt easily to seasonal themes.
St. Patrick’s Day
Enhance the green color. Add white chocolate drizzle. Use gold sprinkles.
Christmas
Add crushed candy canes. Roll dough in powdered sugar.
Valentine’s Day
Dip half the cookie in dark chocolate. Add heart sprinkles.
Summer Parties
Serve chilled with mint ice cream sandwiches.
Each variation keeps the base recipe intact.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
These cookies store exceptionally well.
Room Temperature
Store in an airtight container for up to five days.
Refrigeration
Refrigerate for up to ten days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Freezing Dough
Freeze dough balls for up to two months. Bake from frozen with extra time.
Freezing Baked Cookies
Freeze fully cooled cookies in airtight bags. Thaw at room temperature.
They retain flavor and texture beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these issues for best results.
- Overbaking leads to dry cookies.
- Too much mint extract overwhelms flavor.
- Skipping parchment causes sticking.
- Overcrowding the pan affects spread.
Follow the recipe closely for consistent success.
Nutrition Overview
Grasshopper Cake Mix Cookies are an indulgent dessert.
They contain carbohydrates, fats, and sugars typical of cookies. Portion control helps balance enjoyment.
For lighter versions, reduce chocolate chips or use smaller portions.
These cookies are meant to be enjoyed mindfully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chocolate cake mix instead of mint?
Yes. Add mint extract and green coloring if desired.
Do I need to chill the dough?
No. Cake mix dough bakes well immediately.
Why are my cookies flat?
Too much oil or warm baking sheets can cause spreading.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes. Mix gently and bake in batches.
Are these cookies kid-friendly?
Yes. The mint flavor is mild and pleasant.
Why These Cookies Perform Well on Pinterest
These cookies are visually striking.
The green color contrasts beautifully with chocolate. The cracked tops photograph well. Cheese-pull-style chocolate stretches increase engagement.
They fit seasonal boards, dessert boards, and party food boards. The recipe also promises ease, which drives clicks.
High contrast, simple ingredients, and dramatic texture make them ideal for pins.
Final Thoughts
Grasshopper Cake Mix Cookies combine ease, flavor, and visual appeal.
They require minimal effort yet deliver bakery-quality results. The mint-chocolate flavor feels nostalgic and indulgent. The cake mix base ensures consistent success.
Whether you bake them for holidays, parties, or weeknight cravings, they never disappoint.
Once you try them, they will become a repeat recipe in your kitchen.
