Homemade Peppermint Mocha

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep time: 3 minutes | Cook time: 7 minutes | Total time: 10 minutes | Makes: 2 mugs | Difficulty: Easy | Cuisine: American

Intro

This peppermint mocha combines brewed coffee, cocoa, milk, and a little mint for a smooth homemade coffeehouse-style drink. The cocoa is whisked with the milk first so it blends evenly, then coffee and peppermint are stirred in just before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It takes about 10 minutes and uses everyday ingredients. The mint stays balanced rather than overpowering, and you can adjust the sweetness or use espresso for a stronger coffee flavor. Whipped cream and crushed peppermint make it feel festive for a chilly morning or evening.

Recipe Card

Hannah Brooks

Homemade Peppermint Mocha

A simple stovetop peppermint mocha blends coffee, cocoa, milk, sugar, and peppermint for a warm coffeehouse-style drink at home.

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Prep Time 3 minutes mins

Cook Time 7 minutes mins

Total Time 10 minutes mins

Servings: 2 mugs

Course: Drinks

Cuisine: American

Calories: 185

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Peppermint mocha

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1 pinch kosher salt

Optional toppings

• 1/2 cup whipped cream
• 1 tablespoon crushed peppermint candy
• 1 tablespoon chocolate shavings

Equipment

• small saucepan
• Whisk
• Measuring spoons
• Mugs

Method

 

1. Whisk the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt together in a small saucepan. Slowly whisk in the milk until smooth.
2. Set the saucepan over medium-low heat and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, whisking often, until steaming but not boiling.
3. Whisk in the brewed coffee and peppermint extract. Warm for 1 to 2 minutes, then taste and add a drop more peppermint only if desired.
4. Pour into two mugs. Add whipped cream, crushed peppermint candy, or chocolate shavings if using, and serve warm.

Notes

Peppermint extract is concentrated, so measure carefully and add more only a drop at a time. For a stronger coffee flavor, replace part of the brewed coffee with espresso. Nutrition values are estimates without optional toppings.

Peppermint Mocha Tips

Whisk the cocoa and sugar together before adding the milk to help prevent clumps. Keep the saucepan over medium-low heat and stop when the milk is steaming. Peppermint extract is potent, so measure a small amount and taste before adding more.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Boiling the milk can cause a skin to form and may dull its smooth texture. Adding too much peppermint at once can overwhelm the chocolate and coffee, so start with the measured amount. Do not add cocoa directly to a mug of hot milk or it may clump.

Variations

Use oat milk or another creamy milk alternative. Stir in a little extra cocoa for a richer chocolate taste or reduce the sugar for a less-sweet mug. For an iced version, chill the mocha and pour it over ice, then add toppings just before drinking.

What to Serve With It

Pair a warm mug with a small cookie or chocolate dessert. Soft gingerbread cookies bring warm spice, while peppermint bark doubles down on the mint and chocolate. For a sweet seasonal bite, try Christmas cake pops. Find more ideas in the recipe index.

Storage

The drink is best served fresh. Refrigerate any un-topped leftovers in a covered jar and use within 2 days. Shake or whisk before reheating because the cocoa can settle.

Reheating

Warm gently in a saucepan over low heat, whisking until smooth and steaming. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring between each one. Do not boil.

Make Ahead

Whisk the cocoa, sugar, and salt together ahead of time and store the dry mix in a small airtight container. Brew the coffee and warm the milk when you are ready to serve for the smoothest texture.

FAQs

Can I make a peppermint mocha without espresso?

Yes. Strong brewed coffee works well. For a deeper coffee taste, use a little espresso if you have it.

How much peppermint extract should I use?

Start with 1/4 teaspoon for two mugs. Extract strength varies, so taste before adding any more.

Can I serve peppermint mocha iced?

Yes. Chill the prepared drink, pour it over ice, and add whipped cream or crushed peppermint right before serving.