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Starbucks Peppermint Mocha

This homemade Starbucks peppermint mocha captures that cozy seasonal magic with rich espresso, silky steamed milk, decadent mocha sauce, and signature peppermint kick. In about five minutes, you'll have a café-quality drink that tastes like the holidays in a cup.
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Prep Time 2 minutes
Cook Time 3 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 1 drink
Course: Drinks and Beverages
Cuisine: American
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Espresso Base
  • 2 shots espresso about 2 ounces
  • 10 ounces whole milk
Mocha Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoons hot water
Peppermint Flavoring
  • 1/2 ounce 1 tablespoon peppermint syrup
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
  • 2 tablespoons whipped cream
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed candy canes optional

Equipment

  • Espresso machine or moka pot
  • Milk frother or steam wand
  • 12 to 16 ounce mug
  • Small saucepan
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups
  • Whisk
  • Spoon for stirring

Method
 

  1. Pull 2 shots of espresso directly into your mug using your espresso machine. Use fresh, high-quality coffee beans and ensure your machine is properly heated.
  2. Combine 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and 3 tablespoons of hot water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk continuously for about 1 minute until the mixture becomes smooth and syrupy.
  3. Pour the warm mocha sauce directly into the mug with your espresso shots and stir well to distribute the chocolate flavor throughout.
  4. Measure 1/2 ounce (1 tablespoon) of peppermint syrup and pour it into the mug. Stir gently to combine with the mocha sauce and espresso.
  5. Pour 10 ounces of whole milk into your milk pitcher and steam it using your espresso machine's steam wand until it reaches about 150 to 155 degrees Fahrenheit.
  6. Slowly pour the steamed milk into the mug with the espresso and mocha mixture, holding back the foam slightly with a spoon.
  7. Spoon about 1/4 inch of milk foam on top of the drink for insulation and texture.
  8. Top with 2 tablespoons of whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed candy cane if desired.

Notes

Make a batch of mocha sauce at the beginning of the week and store it in the refrigerator in a sealed container so you can make peppermint mochas in under two minutes every morning. Keep your milk between 150 and 155 degrees Fahrenheit for the best texture and taste. You can substitute oat milk or almond milk for dairy-free version, or use sugar-free peppermint syrup for a lower-carb option.