Why You’ll Love Peppermint Mocha Recipe
You’ll love this peppermint mocha because it:
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Captures that seasonal coffee‑shop feel without leaving your home
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Comes together quickly—only about 10 minutes from start to finish
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Lets you control the ingredients (milk type, sweetness level, peppermint strength) so it fits your taste
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Is versatile—whether you crave a hot winter treat or an iced version
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Is more affordable than buying a specialty coffee drink and easily scalable for more servings
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Whole milk (or any milk you prefer)
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Sugar
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Unsweetened cocoa powder
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Brewed espresso or strong coffee
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Mint extract (or half a peppermint candy cane or peppermint syrup)
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Vanilla extract
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Toppings: whipped cream and chocolate shavings (optional)
Directions
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In a small saucepan, combine the milk, cocoa powder and sugar. Heat over medium heat until the edges begin to bubble and the sugar dissolves.
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Stir in the brewed espresso or strong coffee, mint extract, and vanilla extract. If using a candy cane instead of extract/syrup, add it and allow it to melt fully, then remove if desired.
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Pour the mixture into a large mug. Top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings if you like. Serve immediately.
Servings and timing
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Servings: 1 serving
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Prep time: about 5 minutes
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Cook time: about 5 minutes
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Total time: around 10 minutes
Variations
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White chocolate peppermint mocha: Add white chocolate chips into the milk while heating and stir until melted
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Non‑dairy version: Use plant‑based milk instead of whole milk
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Lightened‑up version: Use low‑fat milk (1% or 2%) and reduce sugar or use a natural sweetener
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Iced peppermint mocha: Let the coffee mixture cool, then pour over ice
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Caffeine‑free version: Swap in decaf coffee for the brewed espresso/strong coffee
Storage/Reheating
This recipe is best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftover mocha:
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Storage: Let it cool, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours
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Reheating: Gently warm on the stove or microwave until heated through, stirring well before serving. Avoid overheating to preserve flavor and avoid scalding the milk
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Note: Whipped toppings are best added fresh after reheating
FAQs
What is in a peppermint mocha?
A peppermint mocha is essentially a chocolate‑flavored latte (espresso and milk) with added peppermint flavor and often whipped cream or chocolate garnish.
Is a peppermint mocha coffee‑based?
Yes — it uses brewed espresso or strong coffee as the base, combined with milk and flavorings.
Does a peppermint mocha taste like coffee?
Yes, but the coffee flavor can be subtle since you’re adding chocolate and peppermint. You can adjust the amount of strong coffee or espresso to make the coffee taste more or less prominent.
Can I use non‑dairy milk?
Absolutely! Non‑dairy alternatives like almond, oat, soy or coconut milk work well in this recipe.
Can I adjust the sweetness?
Yes — you can reduce or increase the sugar (or use a sweetener) to match your taste.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the coffee‑milk‑cocoa base ahead, refrigerate, then reheat and add the peppermint flavor and toppings when ready to serve.
How do I make it iced?
Prepare as directed, then cool the mixture and pour it over ice in a tall glass. Add whipped cream and garnish if desired.
Can I make it without caffeine?
Yes — use decaffeinated coffee or espresso and you’ll still have all the flavor without the caffeine boost.
What kind of peppermint flavoring should I use?
You can choose mint extract (easy and strong), crushed candy cane (melts for a festive touch), or peppermint syrup (sweet and flavored) depending on what you have and your preference.
How many servings can I double or triple the recipe for?
The recipe is easily scaled. Just increase all ingredients proportionally (milk, sugar, cocoa powder, coffee) and use a larger saucepan.
Conclusion
Whether you’re craving a cozy winter drink or just want to bring a little café‑magic into your home, this peppermint mocha delivers. It’s quick, customizable and deliciously festive. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, you’ll have a delightful peppermint chocolate‑coffee treat ready in about 10 minutes. Enjoy!
