Peppermint Mocha: the delicious recipe for a wintery coffee drink

Nothing says, “Winter is here” like a peppermint mocha. This cozy, wintery beverage is chocolatey, mint, and perfectly creamy. If you're a fan of Starbucks or McDonald's peppermint mochas, you'll love this simple copycat recipe – it tastes even better than the original!

What's more, making a homemade peppermint mocha is both healthier and cheaper than ordering one from your local Starbucks. Peppermint mochas are usually enjoyed hot, but you can make an iced version if you prefer.

So the next time you're in the mood for an ultra-comforting, cozy winter drink, try this phenomenal peppermint mocha recipe – you'll be thrilled with the results!

What is a Peppermint Mocha?

Peppermint mochas are a tasty coffee drink that puts a wintery holiday twist on a classic beverage. They're made by adding peppermint extract to a classic mocha. The result is a wonderful chocolatey, minty drink that is wonderfully festive and delicious.

Homemade Peppermint Mocha Ingredients

To make a copycat Starbucks peppermint mocha at home, you only need a few key ingredients.

First, you'll need good quality coffee or espresso.

You'll also need whole milk (or a plant-based alternative if you're on a vegan or dairy-free diet), unsweetened cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and either mint extract or peppermint syrup.

You can even use a candy cane to give your mocha its minty flavor!

Peppermint Mocha Variations

Love chocolate? Who doesn't? Add more chocolate to your peppermint mocha for a decadent sweet beverage.

You can adjust the sweetness level to your tastes. Use less sugar if ultra-sweet coffee drinks aren't your thing.

Add in white chocolate to make a white chocolate mocha.

If you don't like coffee, use less coffee or leave it out altogether and turn your peppermint mocha into a peppermint hot cocoa.

Tips for the Best Starbucks Copycat Peppermint Mocha

If you don't have mint extract on hand, you can substitute it with 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint syrup.

Jazz up your peppermint mocha by topping it off with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and a drizzle of chocolate syrup.

Make your peppermint mocha dairy-free by using your preferred type of plant-based milk instead of regular whole milk.

If you're watching your calorie intake, use skim milk.

For a creamier, more indulgent peppermint mocha, use half and half instead of whole milk.

How to Store Peppermint Mocha

Keep your peppermint mocha in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat and enjoy it within 2 days.

How to Make Peppermint Mocha

Warm milk, sugar, and cocoa in a saucepan over medium heat.

Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves and small bubbles begin to form around the side of the pot.

Add in the espresso, mint, and vanilla extracts.

Turn off heat and stir to combine. Pour into a mug and enjoy.

Notes

If you don't have mint extract, you can use half a candy cane. Make sure to let it melt completely