Peppermint Mocha Recipe

Servings: 1

A warm peppermint mocha is a familiar blend of coffee, cocoa, and a hint of mint, something many enjoy when the weather cools or the season shifts. This version is simple to make at home using just a few ingredients, and it’s easy to adjust depending on how strong or smooth you like your coffee.

Tips Before Making Your Peppermint Mocha

Adjust the Coffee Strength to Balance Flavours

The base of any coffee drink sets the tone for the rest of the recipe. Whether you’re using brewed coffee or a shot of espresso, adjusting the strength can help balance the cocoa and mint flavours. A darker brew works well if you prefer a more pronounced coffee note, while a lighter one keeps things smooth. Whichever you choose, using a fresh cup of coffee can make a difference in your final drink.

Top with Whipped Cream and Crushed Candy Canes

Adding whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes offers a visual contrast and ties in with the classic peppermint theme. While optional, it’s a popular choice when preparing a homemade peppermint mocha, especially around the holiday season. For extra variety, some like to drizzle a little caramel or a spoonful of chocolate on top before serving.

Use Extracts or Syrups to Control the Mint Flavour

For the peppermint element, you can use peppermint syrup or peppermint extract, both are widely available and easy to incorporate. Start small and adjust to your preference, since mint flavours can vary in intensity. A few drops go a long way, especially if you’re trying this in place of a hot chocolate or looking for a more cozy, homemade alternative to a store-bought option. If you like a foamier texture, consider warming the milk and using a handheld frother to add a bit of froth before you serve.

Ingredients
Instructions

Instructions

In a warm mug, combine the coffee, coffee creamer, milk, and chocolate syrup. Stir until well blended.
Froth the milk before combining if you prefer a lighter texture.
Top with whipped cream and crushed candy canes, if desired.
Serve warm.

Ingredients

1 cup hot coffee
1/4 cup International Delight® Peppermint Mocha coffee creamer
1/4 cup milk or alternative product
1 tbsp chocolate syrup
Whipped cream

Preparation time: 5 minutes

Questions Related to the Peppermint Mocha Recipe

Is the Peppermint Mocha really Minty?

That depends on how much peppermint syrup or extract you use. When you make a peppermint mocha at home, it's easy to adjust the intensity to your preference. Some like just a hint of mint, while others enjoy a more pronounced flavour, similar to what you might expect in a coffee shop. If you’re making your own peppermint drinks for the first time, start with a small amount and adjust to taste.

What is the Difference Between Peppermint Mocha and Peppermint Bark?

While both combine chocolate and mint, the two are used in different ways. Peppermint bark is a layered confection, typically made with white and dark chocolate plus crushed candy canes. A peppermint mocha is a coffee drink, made with ingredients like brewed or regular coffee, chocolate, and mint flavouring. If you're curious about chilled variations, you can check our mocha iced coffee at home recipe or even our iced latte coffee recipe for more ideas.

Can I Try Other Flavours Instead of Peppermint?

Yes, you can easily swap the mint flavour for something else. Try adding a touch of vanilla, a dash of cinnamon, or even a few chocolate chips for a different profile. If you’re looking for something to pair with cookies or baked items, these options can be a nice complement. Customizing drinks with ingredients you already have is part of the ease of making coffee at home, especially when you can adjust the heat or taste exactly how you like it.

It doesn’t take much to bring this seasonal drink home. Whether you’re recreating something familiar or just looking to try something different, this recipe shows how simple it is to make a peppermint mocha using a few basics from your kitchen.

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