Cozy Copycat Starbucks Peppermint Mocha: Easy 5-Min Recipe
A quick and easy copycat Starbucks Peppermint Mocha that takes just 5 minutes to make. Creamier, more chocolatey, and with the perfect peppermint kick, this homemade version is better than the drive-through and perfect for cozy season or holiday gatherings.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk (or oat milk for dairy-free)
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (Ghirardelli or Hershey’s Special Dark recommended)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee or 2 shots espresso (decaf works)
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract (start with less, adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (for whipped topping, optional)
- Crushed candy canes or peppermint candies (for garnish)
- Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat the milk base: Pour 2 cups of milk into a small saucepan over medium heat. Warm until tiny bubbles form around the edges (about 2-3 minutes). Do not boil.
- Whisk in the dry ingredients: Add 2 tablespoons cocoa powder and 2 tablespoons sugar to the warm milk. Whisk continuously until fully dissolved and smooth (about 30 seconds).
- Add the coffee: Pour in 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee or espresso and whisk to combine. Taste and adjust balance if needed.
- Add the peppermint extract: Remove saucepan from heat. Add 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract and stir. Taste and adjust if needed.
- Make the whipped cream: While mocha base heats, pour 1/4 cup heavy cream into a small bowl. Whip with a hand mixer or whisk until soft peaks form (1-2 minutes with mixer, 3-4 minutes by hand). Add a pinch of sugar if desired.
- Assemble and serve: Pour hot peppermint mocha into a mug. Top with whipped cream. Sprinkle crushed candy canes and chocolate shavings over the top. Serve immediately.
Notes
Don’t boil the milk to avoid skin and flavor changes. Bloom cocoa powder by mixing with a tablespoon of hot water before adding to milk for deeper flavor. Always remove pan from heat before adding peppermint extract to prevent evaporation. Make base ahead (without peppermint extract and whipped cream) and store in fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently and add extract before serving. For a crowd, multiply ingredients and set up a toppings bar.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mug (about 1 cup)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 26
- Sodium: 120
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 11
- Carbohydrates: 30
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 9
Keywords: peppermint mocha, copycat Starbucks, hot chocolate, coffee drink, holiday drink, 5-minute recipe, easy mocha