If there’s ever a reason to cozy up on a chilly morning or celebrate a festive afternoon at home, it’s a rich and dreamy Peppermint Mocha. Imagine wrapping your hands around a big mug filled with chocolatey coffee, a cool breeze of peppermint, and clouds of whipped cream, all crowned with candy cane sprinkles. This coffeehouse favorite is irresistibly simple to make in your own kitchen, with just a handful of pantry staples and a dash of holiday magic. Whether you’re finding a break in your busy day or treating yourself to a wintry indulgence, this Peppermint Mocha turns any moment into a celebration.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how just a few simple ingredients can come together to create such an iconic treat. Each one brings something special, from the creamy richness of milk to the energizing coffee kick and the unmistakable peppermint sparkle. Here’s what you need:
- Milk (1 cup, any kind): The creamy base that gives your Peppermint Mocha its velvety, comforting texture. Dairy-free milk works beautifully for a vegan treat.
- Brewed strong coffee or espresso (1/2 cup, or 1–2 shots): For that essential java punch. Use your favorite brew or whatever you have on hand.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (2 tablespoons): This is what brings the deep, chocolatey flavor front and center.
- Sugar (2 tablespoons, adjust to taste): Sweetens up your cup and balances both the peppermint and cocoa. Feel free to play with the amount!
- Peppermint extract (1/4 teaspoon): The magic ingredient that gives this drink its cool, festive charm—adjust it if you’re sensitive to mint.
- Vanilla extract (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a warm, round note that makes everything feel just a bit more special.
- Whipped cream for topping (optional): A billowy final touch that’s pretty irresistible, especially if you’re going for the full coffeehouse vibe.
- Crushed candy canes or chocolate shavings for garnish (optional): They’re not just decorative—each bite of garnish melts into the mocha, adding sweet flavor bursts and a pop of color.
How to Make Peppermint Mocha
Step 1: Warm and Whisk the Base
Start by pouring your milk into a small saucepan and setting it over medium heat. Add the cocoa powder and sugar, then gently whisk everything together until it’s smooth and the milk is steaming. The goal here is not to let it boil—just to make sure all the chocolate and sugar dissolve seamlessly into the creamy milk.
Step 2: Bring on the Coffee and Flavorings
Once your milk mixture is nice and steamy, pour in your strong brewed coffee (or those bold shots of espresso if you’re feeling extra). Immediately after, stir in the peppermint extract and vanilla extract. Continue whisking for another 1 to 2 minutes, just until everything is hot and all those delicious flavors meld together.
Step 3: Pour and Garnish
Take your saucepan off the heat and carefully pour your homemade Peppermint Mocha into a big, inviting mug. Top it with a generous dollop of whipped cream. If you want to up the festive factor, sprinkle crushed candy canes or a cascade of chocolate shavings right on top. Serve while it’s piping hot and extra cozy!
How to Serve Peppermint Mocha
Garnishes
A Peppermint Mocha truly shines when dressed up with the right toppings. Classic whipped cream gives your mug that luxurious, coffee-shop finish, while crushed candy canes add a burst of color and a satisfying crunch. If you’re a chocolate lover, don’t hold back on the chocolate shavings—they melt just enough to create swirling ribbons of cocoa with every sip!
Side Dishes
Pair your Peppermint Mocha with simple, sweet baked goods—think buttery croissants, crisp biscotti, or a stack of snickerdoodles. The mocha’s minty richness complements anything chocolatey or nutty, making it the perfect accompaniment to a plate of brownies or shortbread for a winter brunch or an after-dinner treat.
Creative Ways to Present
For a playful twist, serve your Peppermint Mocha in clear glass mugs to show off the contrasting layers of cocoa and cream. Hosting a crowd? Set up a festive DIY hot chocolate bar with bowls of crushed candies, marshmallows, and flavored syrups for everyone to customize their own. For an iced version, let the mocha cool completely and pour it over ice—don’t forget a candy cane stir stick!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’ve made extra Peppermint Mocha (or just want to save a cup for tomorrow’s treat), let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to a resealable jar or airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 2 days—just wait to add whipped cream and garnishes until serving.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze your Peppermint Mocha! Pour cooled leftovers into an ice cube tray and freeze. These mocha cubes are perfect for turning iced coffee into a decadent treat or blending into a frosty, grown-up milkshake whenever the craving strikes.
Reheating
To enjoy your stored mocha, simply pour it into a saucepan and gently heat over low, stirring occasionally, until hot. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring each time for even warmth. Add fresh whipped cream and any garnishes of your choice right before serving for the ultimate cozy-up moment.
FAQs
Can I make Peppermint Mocha without coffee?
Absolutely! Just swap the coffee or espresso for hot water, extra milk, or even a shot of brewed chicory for a caffeine-free, kid-friendly version that’s still deliciously chocolatey and minty.
What’s the best way to make this vegan?
Use your favorite plant-based milk (like almond, oat, or soy) and top with dairy-free whipped cream. Most peppermint extracts and cocoa powders are vegan, but double-check your labels for peace of mind.
Can I prepare a large batch for a holiday party?
Yes! Just scale up each ingredient according to how many people you want to serve, and simmer gently in a bigger pot. Keep it warm in a slow cooker or insulated pitcher so guests can help themselves.
How do I keep my Peppermint Mocha from tasting bitter?
If your mocha feels a bit harsh, try using a smoother coffee, sifting your cocoa powder before adding, and making sure you don’t skip the sugar—it’s crucial for balance. A generous topping of whipped cream also smooths out any edges.
Can I use other flavored extracts instead of peppermint?
Definitely! For a twist, try using orange, almond, or even hazelnut extract for a new flavor profile. That said, nothing beats the classic chill of a true Peppermint Mocha during the winter months!
Final Thoughts
There’s something genuinely magical about making your own Peppermint Mocha at home—it’s like a hug in a mug, brimming with chocolate, coffee, and peppermint joy. Don’t wait for a special occasion; give yourself the treat you deserve, and share the warmth with someone you love!
Print
Peppermint Mocha Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the festive flavors of peppermint and chocolate with this homemade Peppermint Mocha recipe. Perfect for cozying up during the holiday season or enjoying as a special treat any time of the year.
Ingredients
Mocha:
- 1 cup milk (any kind)
- 1/2 cup brewed strong coffee or 1–2 shots of espresso
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Toppings:
- whipped cream for topping (optional)
- crushed candy canes or chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the milk, cocoa powder, and sugar until smooth and steaming. Do not boil.
- Stir in the brewed coffee (or espresso), peppermint extract, and vanilla extract.
- Continue to heat for another 1–2 minutes until hot.
- Pour into a mug and top with whipped cream.
- Garnish with crushed candy canes or chocolate shavings if desired.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use dairy-free milk and whipped topping for a vegan version.
- You can adjust the peppermint extract to make it milder or stronger depending on preference.
- For an iced version, chill the mocha and serve over ice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mug
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
