There’s something so comforting about curling up with a cozy cup of Starbucks Peppermint Mocha on a chilly winter day. I can vividly recall the first time I took a sip of this delightful beverage many years ago. The rich aroma of chocolate and peppermint enveloped me, making every winter afternoon feel like a charming holiday moment. Each sip was like a warm hug, reminding me of festive gatherings and the joy of the season. Today, I am excited to share with you my homemade version of this iconic drink that you can easily whip up in your own kitchen. Let’s bring that Starbucks magic to your home!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick prep: With just a few ingredients and minimal clean-up, you’ll have a delicious drink ready in no time.
- Nostalgic appeal: This Starbucks-inspired drink brings back warm memories of holiday gatherings and joyful moments with loved ones.
- Comforting flavors: The combination of mocha, peppermint, and whipped cream will leave you feeling cozy and satisfied.
- Budget-friendly: Save money compared to your local Starbucks drinks and enjoy it just the way you like!
Ingredients
- Sugar
- Water
- Cocoa powder
- Peppermint extract
- Espresso or strong coffee
- 2% milk
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate syrup (optional)
- Crushed peppermint candy (optional)
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
To get started, we’ll first create the peppermint syrup. In a medium-sized pot, combine water and sugar, stirring well. Bring this mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Don’t forget to keep stirring to ensure all the sugar dissolves! Once it’s boiling, remove it from the heat and add in the peppermint extract. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Just a little tip: adding a teaspoon of vodka helps preserve the syrup longer, making it last for about four weeks in the fridge.
Next, it’s time for the mocha syrup. In another saucepan, mix sugar and cocoa powder together. When they’re combined, pour in the water and bring it all to a boil while stirring. Once it’s boiling, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool as well. Store this syrup just like the peppermint syrup, and you’re ready to go!
Now for the exciting part — let’s make our homemade Starbucks Peppermint Mocha. Start by steaming your milk. To do this, pop the milk in the microwave for about 30 to 45 seconds. Then, pour the warm milk into a glass jar with a lid and shake it for about 5 to 10 seconds to add some lovely air bubbles. This will give you that gorgeous frothy milk you’d expect from a coffee shop!
In your favorite coffee mug, pour in about two teaspoons of peppermint syrup followed by one tablespoon of mocha syrup and four ounces of rich espresso or strong coffee. Next, add your beautifully steamed milk. Finally, crown your creation with whipped cream! For an extra touch of indulgence, swirl in some chocolate syrup or sprinkle crushed peppermint candy on top. Enjoy every sip!
Pro Tips for Making This Recipe
- For a richer mocha flavor, feel free to adjust the cocoa powder based on your taste preference.
- Be careful when steaming the milk; too much heat can cause it to bubble over. If it starts to bubble too fast, just turn down the heat — no stress!
- Use high-quality coffee for the best flavor — your brew can truly elevate the overall taste of your drink!
How to Serve
This homemade Starbucks Peppermint Mocha is perfect for various occasions! It makes a delightful treat for holiday brunches, cozy afternoons with friends, or even just a sweet indulgence while you unwind with a book. To enhance your experience, I suggest pairing it with peppermint bark, gingerbread cookies, or a slice of your favorite holiday cake. For a festive touch, consider decorating the serving table with holly and twinkling lights while enjoying your relaxing moment.
Make Ahead and Storage
If you’re looking to prepare ahead, both the mocha and peppermint syrups store beautifully. Just be sure to keep them in your refrigerator, and they’ll last for about four weeks. If you like your drinks extra frothy, it’s best to steam milk fresh when you’re ready to enjoy. However, if you find there are any leftovers, you can store it in the refrigerator and reheat it gently — though nothing beats that fresh-from-the-kitchen experience!
FAQ
- Can I make this gluten-free? Absolutely! All the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, so you’re all set.
- What if I don’t have peppermint extract? No worries! You can use fresh mint or mint-infused syrup instead for a unique twist.
- Can I prepare this using an air fryer or slow cooker? This recipe is best made on the stovetop to achieve the ideal flavor, but your slow cooker would be great for larger batches of syrup.
I hope this drink brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine! It’s a little slice of holiday magic you can enjoy any time of year. Let me know how it turns out — I’d love to hear from you!
Starbucks Peppermint Mocha
Ingredients
Mocha Syrup
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
Peppermint Syrup
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 tsp peppermint extract
Individual Coffee Serving
- 2 tsp peppermint syrup
- 1 tbsp mocha
- 4 oz espresso or strong coffee
- 8 oz 2% milk steamed
- 2 tbsp whipped cream
Optional Toppings
- 2 tsp chocolate syrup
- 1 tsp peppermint candy crushed
Instructions
- For Peppermint Syrup, combine water and sugar in a pot. Bring to a boil, stirring until dissolved. Remove from heat, add peppermint extract, and cool. Store in an airtight container, add vodka to preserve for 4 weeks.
- For Mocha Syrup, mix sugar and cocoa powder in a saucepan, add water, and bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and cool. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- To prepare the Peppermint Mocha, heat milk in the microwave for 30-45 seconds. Aerate by shaking in a jar for 5-10 seconds.
- Pour peppermint syrup into a coffee mug followed by mocha syrup and coffee. Add steamed milk. Top with whipped cream and chocolate syrup, if desired.