Starbucks Peppermint Mocha
The Starbucks Peppermint Mocha is a layered coffee drink featuring homemade mocha and peppermint syrups mixed with espresso and steamed milk, then topped with whipped cream. This recipe captures the interplay of chocolate and mint flavors without artificial shortcuts by preparing syrups from scratch. It offers a rich, creamy texture balanced by the refreshing peppermint and deep chocolate notes, making it a distinct wintertime or holiday treat.
Ingredients
Mocha Syrup
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
Peppermint Syrup
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons peppermint extract
Individual Coffee Serving
- 2 teaspoons peppermint syrup
- 1 tablespoon mocha
- 4 ounces espresso or strong coffee
- 8 ounces milk steamed, 2%
- 2 tablespoons Whipped Cream
Optional
- 2 teaspoons chocolate syrup
- 1 teaspoon Peppermint candy crushed
Instructions
Peppermint Syup
- Combine water and sugar in a medium size pot and stir well. Bring mixture to a rolling boil over medium high heat. Stir to make sure all sugar is dissolved.
- Remove from heat and add peppermint extract. Allow to cool, then store in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Before using add 1 teaspoon of vodka to help preserve the syrup. The syrup will last for up to 4 weeks this way.
Mocha Syrup
- To make the mocha In a saucepan, mix together the sugar and cocoa powder. Add the water and bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Remove from heat, and allow to cool. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Peppermint Mocha
- To make steamed milk, first heat milk in the microwave for about 30 to 45 seconds, and then airate by placing in a glass jar with a lid and shaking for 5 to 10 seconds to work in some air bubbles.
- Pour the syrups in a coffee mug followed by the coffee. Add the steamed milk. Top with whipped cream and chocolate syrup, if desired.
Notes
- Make the peppermint syrup with a teaspoon of vodka added before storing to extend refrigerator shelf life up to 4 weeks.
- Steam milk carefully to reach between 150 and 160 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal texture and foam.
- For best flavor, use freshly brewed espresso or very strong coffee.
- Prepare syrup batches in bulk for convenience during frequent use.
Nutrition Information
Nutrition Facts
Serving: 1 Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 276
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 276kcal | 14% |
| Carbohydrates | 34g | 11% |
| Protein | 9g | 18% |
| Fat | 11g | 17% |
| Saturated Fat | 6g | 30% |
| Cholesterol | 27mg | 9% |
| Sodium | 134mg | 6% |
| Potassium | 499mg | 11% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 27g | 54% |
| Vitamin A | 293IU | 6% |
| Calcium | 287mg | 29% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.