peppermint mocha (for one)
I can’t stop making cozy drinks! The cooler days and long night just call for cups of festive warmth to keep you company. This peppermint mocha comes together quickly, and I’ve included a few different options for flavouring it with peppermint! There are lots of options for the type of coffee you want to use as well, drip coffee, espresso, or maybe from a pod? All are welcome here.
Of course the chocolate can be tweaked to your preference as well. I will always choose a bittersweet dark chocolate when given the option, but you’re welcome to go for a milder milk chocolate or even white chocolate if you’d like.
Basically this is a “choose your own adventure” drink, with no wrong answers.
To be honest I often feel weird about posting drink recipes since they’re so variable and I find them much more subjective to your personal taste, but hopefully this offers you a good starting point.
peppermint mocha (for one)
yields: 1 large mocha
*simply double, triple, quadruple, etc the recipe for more servings!
ingredients
1 cup milk (of your choice - dairy free is fine!)
1-3 teaspoons of finely chopped chocolate (I prefer a dark, bittersweet chocolate)
1/2 cup strong coffee or 2 shots of espresso
1 tablespoon peppermint syrup or 1 tablespoon finely crushed candy canes
Optional toppings: crushed candy canes, sprinkles, chocolate curls, sprinkles for topping
to make
If using coffee: brew before starting. If using espresso, wait to pull the shots until after the milk is frothed.
In a very small saucepan heat 1/4 cup of milk** with the chopped chocolate on medium heat, and whisk until thoroughly combined and steaming. Add finely crushed candy canes and stir until dissolved or add peppermint syrup. Don’t bring to a boil, or you may burn the milk. Pour into a large mug, and set aside.
**If you’re skipping the frothing part, then heat the chocolate up with ALL of the milk.
Next, froth the milk: heat the milk in a microwavable cup and use a steam free frothing wand, OR use the steam wand on an espresso machine.
Add the coffee to the mug (pull the espresso shots at this point if applicable), and then add in the frothed milk.
Top with whipped cream, some crushed candy canes, chocolate curls, etc. and serve!
tips:
Adding whipped cream? For small amounts I recommend using a steam free milk frothing wand or just a tiny whisk to whip 1 or 2 tablespoons up.
Crush a small amount of candy canes up by using a mortar and pestle! Or a mini food processor works well too.
Happy peppermint mocha making!