Healthy Peppermint Mocha Recipe
Introduction
This Healthy Peppermint Mocha is a delightful twist on a classic holiday favorite. It combines rich cocoa, refreshing peppermint, and smooth espresso for a cozy, guilt-free treat. Perfect for warming up on chilly days or impressing your guests with a homemade coffeehouse-style drink.
Ingredients
- 1 cup milk (regular or dairy-free)
- 1 shot espresso
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat the milk in a small saucepan or microwave until warm but not boiling.
- Step 2: Whisk the peppermint extract, cocoa powder, and maple syrup into the warm milk until smooth and well combined.
- Step 3: Pour the peppermint mocha mixture into a mug.
- Step 4: Top with a freshly brewed shot of espresso and stir gently before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For a frothy texture, use a milk frother to warm and foam the milk before whisking in the flavors.
- Adjust the amount of peppermint extract to taste; a little goes a long way.
- Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra cozy flavor.
- Use dark cocoa powder for a richer chocolate taste.
- Maple syrup can be swapped with honey or agave for different natural sweeteners.
Storage
This peppermint mocha is best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring to recombine the ingredients before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular coffee instead of espresso?
Yes, you can use strong brewed coffee as a substitute, but the flavor will be less intense and concentrated than espresso.
Is this recipe suitable for a dairy-free diet?
Absolutely! Simply use your favorite plant-based milk such as almond, oat, or soy milk to keep the recipe dairy-free.
PrintHealthy Peppermint Mocha Recipe
This Healthy Peppermint Mocha is a cozy, flavorful coffee drink that combines the rich taste of espresso with refreshing peppermint and chocolate notes, sweetened naturally with maple syrup. Perfect for a festive treat or a comforting pick-me-up, it uses simple ingredients and can be made with regular or dairy-free milk for a versatile, guilt-free delight.
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Total Time: 6 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Milk Base
- 1 cup milk (regular or dairy-free of your choice)
Flavorings
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
- 1 shot (about 1 oz) of freshly brewed espresso
Instructions
- Heat the milk: Warm the milk in a small saucepan over medium heat until it is hot but not boiling, about 2-3 minutes. Alternatively, you can heat the milk in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
- Mix in flavorings: Whisk the peppermint extract, cocoa powder, and maple syrup into the warm milk until all ingredients are fully combined and smooth, creating your mocha base.
- Assemble the mocha: Pour the peppermint chocolate milk mixture into your favorite mug, then slowly pour the freshly brewed espresso over the top to maintain layering and enhance the rich mocha flavor.
Notes
- Use dairy-free milk alternatives like almond, oat, or soy milk for a vegan-friendly version.
- Adjust the peppermint extract amount according to your taste preference; it is potent so start small.
- For an extra creamy texture, froth the milk before mixing the flavorings.
- Maple syrup is used as a natural sweetener, but feel free to substitute with honey or agave nectar if preferred.
- To make the drink iced, cool the milk mixture in the refrigerator and combine with cold espresso and ice cubes.
Keywords: peppermint mocha, healthy mocha, peppermint coffee, dairy-free mocha, maple syrup mocha, holiday coffee drink
