Cozy Peppermint Mocha (Better than Starbucks)

This cozy peppermint mocha is delicious velvety milky coffee, chocolate, and peppermint - topped with smooth whipped cream. It is ridiculously easy to make, and you can save yourself a ton of money because there's no need to visit Starbucks this Holiday!

 

 

I'm not saying we should never enter our favorite coffee shops, there is something special about those paper cups in a hurry. However, there is also something very special about taking your favorite cup at home, and sit by the fireplace. And bonus; no one will judge you by the amount of chocolate and whipped cream you put in your peppermint mocha.

 

What is a mocha?

 

A mocha is simply put just a coffee with added chocolate and usually some milk as well. It can either be hot chocolate added or a chocolate syrup. The name derives from the city Mocha in Yemen, which were one of the centers of early coffee trades.

 

As we all (should) know, chocolate and coffee are an amazing combination. That is why Chocolate Coffee Cupcakes with Irish Baileys Cream and Dreamy Creamy Chocolate Coffee Truffles are such delicious recipes as well.

 

This recipe uses both unsweetened cocoa powder and dark chocolate, because chocolate is life. And it's the Holidays, so why not!

 

 

Difference Between Peppermint and Spearmint

 

I think I need to clarify the difference between peppermint and spearmint. I wouldn't want to be responsible for ruining your delicious peppermint mocha! Peppermint is a classic flavoring for the Holidays. I absolutely LOVE peppermint and I do eat peppermint-flavored anything the entire year. But it's extra lovely during Christmas.

 

However, all mint is not the same. Peppermint is a cross between spearmint and water mint. Peppermint has a cooling effect both upon touch and in the mouth, because of the menthol. That's why it's often used in medicinal purposes, BUT it's delicious with chocolate as well. And did you know peppermint relieves stress? Perfect to add to a Holiday drink!

 

Mint contains a lot less menthol and has a sweeter taste, it's not so cooling. Spearmint pairs really well with savory dishes, but also in drinks, like my favorite cocktail the mojito.

 

 

If you're interested in other peppermint recipes I've got a few: homemade fluffy peppermint marshmallows, dark chocolates filled with peppermint, and these amazing peppermint cream cheese filled truffles.

 

And I've also combined peppermint and mocha in another recipe as well: Peppermint Mocha Macarons!

 

Cozy Peppermint Mocha Recipe

 

Back to the recipe!

 

Add strong coffee, milk (or water + 4 teaspoon instant coffee granules), sugar, and unsweetened cocoa powder in a medium saucepan. On medium heat, stir and bring up to a simmer. Add a pinch of salt and dark chocolate chunks. If needed, reduce the temperature as to avoid burning the chocolate. Stir until the chocolate is melted and combined with the liquid. Pour in the vanilla and peppermint extracts.

 

If you want a stronger peppermint flavor, feel free to add more extract, but a little peppermint goes a long way. You can add peppermint syrup too. You can also up the game by adding homemade fluffy peppermint marshmallows to the drink!

 

 

Pour into either 4 small or 2-3 larger cups. Whip some heavy cream and dollop on top! Serve with crushed candy canes or a whole candy cane for a beautiful and tasty garnish!

 

Remember this is just a personal preference, when it comes to this recipe you can add and subtract to your own liking. There really is no right and wrong! Scroll down for a printable version of the recipe.

 

Enjoy this cozy peppermint mocha with another Christmas classic: the chocolate crinkle cookies, or maybe a delicious cinnamon roll?

 

For a very different but also kind of similar, try warming your soul with a chili cinnamon hot chocolate too.

 

 

Did You Like This Recipe? You'll Love These as Well!

 

• Peppermint Cream Cheese Filled Truffles
• Peppermint Dark Chocolates
• Peppermint Mocha Macarons
• Simple Orange Hot Chocolate
• Rich and Decadent Hot Chocolate
• Apple Caramel Latte Macchiato

 

I’d love to hear your thoughts. Comment below or tag me @thegingerwithspice on Instagram. And don’t forget to Pin it for later! To make sure you’re never missing another recipe, please feel free to subscribe to my newsletter. As a thanks you will receive a free e-cookbook Travels Through the Seasons, with many delicious recipes from around the world that suit different seasons of the year. 

 

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