A few years ago, I worked as a barista at Starbucks. Learning to make all of my favorite drinks and being able to replicate them at home was one of my favorite parts of the job. This drink is so easy to make and a lot cheaper than the $6 it costs at the store.
I worked at Starbucks as a barista for a few years and one of my most beloved drinks was their peppermint mocha. When I left my job at Starbucks, I wanted to recreate this drink at home so I tapped into my culinary school skills. Using pantry staples, this peppermint mocha gets made over a dozen times a year and it’s deliciously perfect every time.
Starbucks Peppermint Mocha Ingredients
- Chocolate Syrup
- Peppermint extract
- Your choice of milk
- Espresso coffee
- Whipped cream
Peppermint Mocha Coffee Equipment
- Espresso machine like this one or this one.
- A milk frother
How to Make a Peppermint Mocha just like Starbucks
- First you'll need to make 2 ounces or shots of espresso coffee.
- Then you'll need to heat and froth your milk of choice.
- In your 12oz mug of choice, you'll add your peppermint extract, chocolate sauce and espresso coffee. Stir til combined.
- Pour your warm and frothed mill into the mug with the coffee and chocolate mixture.
- Finally, top with whipped cream and chocolate sprinkled for garnish.
Can you make this peppermint mocha sugar free?
YES! To make this Starbucks peppermint mocha at home sugar free, you would simply make a couple of ingredient swaps. First, you'd swap out the chocolate sauce for a sugar free chocolate sauce. Then, you'd use almond or soy milk instead of commonly used cow's milk. Lastly, you'd use zero-sugar whipped cream instead of regular whipped cream.
Starbucks Peppermint Mocha Recipe Tips
- Adjust sweetness: Taste the mocha and add more chocolate syrup or peppermint syrup if needed.
- Use high-quality ingredients: For the best flavor, use a good quality espresso or coffee, chocolate syrup, and peppermint syrup.
- Experiment with different milk flavors: Try using almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk for a different flavor experience.
- Get creative with toppings: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon, a drizzle of caramel, or a mint leaf for a festive touch.
Starbucks Peppermint Mocha FAQs
Yes, peppermint mochas are typically quite sweet due to the chocolate syrup and often added sugar or sweeteners.
Yes, you can customize the sweetness by adjusting the amount of chocolate syrup or adding more or less sugar.
Yes, you can use a variety of milk options, such as skim milk, 2% milk, whole milk, or plant-based milk.
Yes, most coffee shops offer decaf peppermint mochas.
Peppermint mochas are generally considered a treat and are not a particularly healthy option due to their high sugar and calorie content. However, you can make healthier choices by opting for a smaller size, using a lower-fat milk, or adding less sugar.
To make a vegan peppermint mocha, you'll need to use a plant-based milk and ensure that the chocolate syrup and peppermint syrup are vegan-friendly.
Yes, a peppermint mocha is definitely minty. The peppermint syrup or flavoring used in the drink adds a distinct minty taste that complements the sweetness of the chocolate and the creaminess of the milk or coffee.
The amount of peppermint flavor can vary depending on the recipe and the preference of the maker, but peppermint mochas are generally known for their strong minty taste.
Whole milk is generally considered the best choice for mochas. It provides a richer and creamier texture, which complements the coffee and chocolate flavors well.
However, you can also use other types of milk, such as:
- 2% milk: A good option for those who prefer a slightly lower fat content.
- 1% milk: A lighter option with less fat.
- Skim milk: The leanest option, but it may not provide as rich a texture.
- Plant-based milk: Almond milk, soy milk, and oat milk are popular alternatives for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan.
Ultimately, the best milk for your mocha depends on your personal preference and dietary needs. Experiment with different types of milk to find the one you enjoy the most.
Want to check out other holiday recipes?
Starbucks Peppermint Mocha At Home
Ingredients
- ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract
- 3 tablespoon chocolate syrup
- 2 ounces espresso coffee
- 1 cup milk of choice I used 2% milk
- ¼ cup whipped cream
- chocolate sprinkles for garnish optional
Instructions
- Brew your espresso coffee and reserve 2 ounces ( 2 shots of espresso)
- Warm your milk to about 150° If you have a milk frother or steamer, steam for about 30 seconds.
- In your 12oz mug of choice, add your peppermint and chocolate sauce.
- Add your espresso shots to the peppermint chocolate mixture and stir until combined.
- Add your steamed milk to the coffee and top with whipped cream
- Garnish with chocolate sprinkles if desired
nik says
Hello!! Thank you for sharing your mock recipes. What espresso, mocha sauce and peppermint syrup would you recommend that is like Starbucks?