Copycat Starbucks Peppermint Mocha (Holiday Favorite)

Dolce Flav

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Author:

Dolce Flav

Servings

1

Prep Time

5 minutes

Cook Time

5 minutes

This homemade Starbucks-style peppermint mocha combines bold espresso, creamy steamed milk, rich chocolate, and refreshing peppermint flavoring to create a festive winter drink that tastes just like the café classic. The chocolate and peppermint melt together into a silky mocha base, then blend with espresso and warm milk for a perfectly balanced holiday beverage. Topped with whipped cream and chocolate drizzle, this peppermint mocha is cozy, indulgent, and incredibly easy to make at home—perfect for Christmas mornings or anytime you crave a seasonal treat.

Ingredients

2 shots (2 oz) freshly brewed espresso (or ½ cup strong coffee)
1 cup milk (whole, oat, or almond milk)
2 tablespoons chocolate syrup or melted chocolate
1 tablespoon cocoa powder
1–2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon peppermint flavoring/extract
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional for balance)
Whipped cream (for topping)
Chocolate syrup or shaved chocolate (for garnish)

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Directions

Make the Mocha Base: In a small saucepan or mug, mix chocolate syrup, cocoa powder, sugar, and peppermint flavoring.
Add Espresso: Pour in the hot espresso and whisk until the chocolate mixture dissolves smoothly.
Heat the Milk: Steam the milk using a frother or heat gently on the stovetop until hot but not boiling. Froth if desired for a café-style texture.
Combine: Pour the steamed milk into the peppermint mocha base and stir gently to blend flavors.
Top and Serve: Add whipped cream and drizzle with chocolate syrup for the classic Starbucks holiday look.

Recipe Note

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Name: Copycat Starbucks Peppermint Mocha (Holiday Favorite)
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 1
Ingredients: 2 shots (2 oz) freshly brewed espresso (or ½ cup strong coffee); 1 cup milk (whole, oat, or almond milk); 2 tablespoons chocolate syrup or melted chocolate; 1 tablespoon cocoa powder; 1–2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste); ½ teaspoon peppermint flavoring/extract; ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional for balance); Whipped cream (for topping); Chocolate syrup or shaved chocolate (for garnish)

1. Can I make this without espresso?

Yes—use strong brewed coffee or instant espresso powder.

2. Can I use peppermint oil instead of peppermint extract?

Yes, but use sparingly. Start with 1–2 drops since peppermint oil is much stronger.

3. What kind of milk works best?

Whole milk creates the creamiest texture, but oat milk is an excellent non-dairy option.

4. How do I make it richer like Starbucks?

Add an extra tablespoon of chocolate syrup or a splash of heavy cream.

5. Can I make it iced?

Yes—use cold milk, dissolve your mocha mixture in warm espresso, cool slightly, then pour over ice.

6. Can I reduce the sugar?

Absolutely. Simply adjust the sweetness to your preference.

7. Why did my chocolate clump?

Your liquid may not have been hot enough—whisk the chocolate into warm espresso for smooth melting.

8. Can I use white chocolate instead?

Yes! Replace chocolate syrup with melted white chocolate for a Peppermint White Mocha.

9. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes—just ensure your chocolate syrup is gluten-free.

10. Can I double or triple the recipe?

Definitely. Just scale the ingredients and prepare in a larger saucepan.