How to DIY Peppermint Mocha Coffee That Beats Starbucks

There's nothing that embodies holiday cheer quite like a hot cup of Peppermint Mocha Coffee. If you've ever indulged in this seasonal delight at Starbucks, you know how irresistible it is. The rich blend of coffee, chocolate, and mint, topped with creamy whipped cream and crushed candy canes, makes it the perfect winter pick-me-up.

The Peppermint Mocha has been a beloved holiday beverage since its debut in 2002. The idea was conceived by Starbucks' research and development team, inspired by the festive flavors of peppermint candies prevalent during the holiday season. The combination of rich espresso, bittersweet mocha sauce, peppermint syrup, and steamed milk, crowned with whipped cream and red sugar sprinkles, quickly became a customer favorite. Over the years, the recipe has remained largely unchanged, with the notable addition of dark chocolate curls replacing the original red sprinkles.

The best part? In just 10 minutes, you can recreate this delightful drink at home. Here's how to craft a Peppermint Mocha Coffee that will keep you warm and satisfied throughout the holiday season!

How to Make Peppermint Mocha Coffee

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Servings: 1 serving

A mug of Peppermint Mocha Coffee with whipped cream on top.

Ingredients

3/4 Cup Milk
2 Tablespoons Dark or Semisweet Chocolate Chips
1/2 Cup Espresso
1 Cup Water
1 Cup Sugar
2 Teaspoons Peppermint Extract
1/4 Cup Heavy Whipped Cream
Crushed Candy Canes

Kitchen Tools Needed

Making a Peppermint Mocha Coffee at home is easy when you have the right tools. Here are a few must-have gadgets all available at Zulay Kitchen:

Milk Frother for that coffee shop-quality foam with a powerful handheld frother.
Balloon Whisk for mixing your chocolate and milk smoothly.
Stainless Steel Spoon Set for stirring and taste-testing.

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Mint Syrup

First, make the mint sauce. This is an important part of your Peppermint Mocha Coffee. Put one cup of water and one cup of sugar in a medium-sized pot. Over medium-high heat, stir the mix well and bring it to a boil. Make sure to stir the mixture occasionally to ensure the sugar is fully mixed in.

Take the mixture off the heat when it starts to boil. Put two teaspoons of peppermint oil in and mix it in. Let the syrup cool to room temperature, then put it in a jar that won't let air in and put it in the fridge. It will stay good for a few weeks, so you can make this mint syrup ahead of time and use it whenever you want a peppermint treat.

Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Milk

Next, put 3/4 cup of milk in a small pot and heat it over medium-low heat until it's warm but not boiling. Add two tablespoons of dark or semisweet chocolate chips to the milk and stir until the chocolate is smooth and all melted. This makes a rich chocolate base you mix with your mint tea and espresso.

A bowl of melted chocolate for making Peppermint Mocha Coffee.

Step 3: Froth the Milk

Put the chocolate milk in the same glass or mug that you will use for the coffee. Whip the milk up with a milk frother until it's light and foamy. This step gives your Peppermint Mocha Coffee a nice taste and makes it feel extra special.

Step 4: Add the Espresso and Mint Syrup

Make a strong 1/2 cup of espresso using the way you like best, whether that's an espresso machine, a Moka pot on the stove, or something else. Pour the espresso into the chocolate milk that has been frothed. Next, add three tablespoons of the mint sauce that you made and mix them in. If you want a stronger or weaker mint flavour, change the amount of mint sauce you use.

Step 5: Prepare the Whipped Cream

For the last touch, put 1/4 cup of heavy whipped cream in a different bowl. Whip the cream until it forms soft peaks with an immersion blender or a stand mixer. You will end up with whipped cream that is very light and airy. It will look great on top of your Peppermint Mocha Coffee.

A mug of Peppermint Mocha Coffee with small candy canes on top.

Step 6: Assemble and Garnish

Add a large amount of freshly whipped cream to the top of your Peppermint Mocha Coffee. Add crushed candy canes to the whipped cream to make your drink look even more holiday-ish. You can add candy canes to your drink to make it more holiday-themed. They add colour and sweetness.

Zulay's Final Thought: Enjoy Your Peppermint Mocha Coffee!

You may now sit back and enjoy your Peppermint Mocha Coffee that you brewed at home. A wonderful beverage ideal for cold winter days or cozy Christmas parties, this blend of peppermint, powerful espresso, and creamy chocolate milk is sure to please. This drink is as pretty as it is tasty, thanks to the whipped cream and candy cane garnish!

Let Us Know What You Think!

We'd love to hear your thoughts on this Peppermint Mocha Coffee recipe. Did you make any adjustments or add your own twist to the recipe? Share your experience in the comments below, and let us know what other recipes you'd like to see next. Your feedback helps us create more delicious content just for you!

Discover More Delicious Recipes

Looking for more recipes to try? Explore our blog for various mouthwatering dishes and drinks that are perfect for any occasion. From comforting soups and hearty main courses to indulgent desserts and festive beverages, we have something for everyone!

Share the Joy

Know someone who would love this Peppermint Mocha Coffee recipe? Share it with your friends and family across all social media platforms. Don't forget to tag @zulay_kitchen and use the hashtag #kitchenhappiness to spread the holiday cheer and connect with fellow coffee lovers!

Two cups of Peppermint Mocha Coffee on the table with candy cane.

FAQs About Making Your Own Peppermint Mocha Coffee

How can I make the mint syrup ahead of time?

You can prepare the mint syrup in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for several weeks, so you can make it ahead of time and use it whenever you crave a peppermint-flavoured treat.

Can I use a dairy-free milk alternative?

Absolutely! You can substitute any dairy-free milk, such as almond, soy, oat, or coconut milk, with regular milk. Just be sure to use a milk alternative that froths well for the best texture in your Peppermint Mocha Coffee.

What type of chocolate chips should I use?

For this recipe, you can use either dark or semisweet chocolate chips, depending on your preference for sweetness and richness. Dark chocolate will have a more intense flavor, while semisweet chocolate will provide a slightly sweeter taste.

Can I make this recipe in larger batches?

Yes, you can easily scale up the recipe to make multiple servings. Just multiply the ate will provide a slightly sweeter taste.

ingredients accordingly and follow the same steps for preparation. Keep in mind that you might need to adjust the frothing and mixing process if making a larger quantity.

What can I use instead of candy canes for garnish?

If you prefer a different garnish, you can use crushed chocolate peppermint bark, mini marshmallows, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder. These alternatives will still add a festive touch to your Peppermint Mocha Coffee.

Can I freeze the Peppermint Mocha Coffee?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the Peppermint Mocha Coffee base (without the whipped cream) for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat before serving. Add the whipped cream and crushed candy canes just before serving for the best experience!