Healthy Peppermint Mocha Recipe
Introduction
This Healthy Peppermint Mocha is a delightful twist on your favorite coffeehouse treat, made with wholesome ingredients and ready in just minutes. It’s perfect for cozy mornings or a refreshing afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients
- 1 cup milk (regular or dairy-free)
- 1/4 cup espresso (1 large 1-2 oz shot)
- 1/8 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cacao powder
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
Instructions
- Step 1: In a small saucepan or microwave-safe container, heat the milk until warm but not boiling.
- Step 2: Whisk in the peppermint extract, cacao powder, and maple syrup until the mixture is smooth.
- Step 3: Whisk or froth the mixture until it’s warm and frothy. Using a milk frother works well if you heated the milk in the microwave.
- Step 4: Pour the milk mixture into a mug, top with the espresso shot, and enjoy your homemade peppermint mocha.
Tips & Variations
- Substitute maple syrup with honey or agave nectar for a different sweetness profile.
- Use vanilla extract in place of peppermint for a cozy vanilla mocha variation.
- If you prefer a richer mocha, add an extra 1/4 teaspoon of cacao powder.
- For a vegan version, choose your favorite plant-based milk.
Storage
This peppermint mocha is best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring well before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of cacao powder?
Yes, regular cocoa powder can be used as a substitute, though cacao powder has a slightly richer, more natural chocolate flavor.
How strong should the espresso be for this recipe?
A 1-2 ounce shot of espresso works perfectly, but you can adjust the amount to your taste preference for a stronger or milder coffee flavor.
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Healthy Peppermint Mocha Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
Description
A delicious and healthy peppermint mocha recipe that combines warm milk, rich espresso, refreshing peppermint, and a hint of cocoa, sweetened naturally with maple syrup. Perfect for a cozy treat that’s easy to prepare in just minutes.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup milk (regular or dairy-free)
- 1/4 cup espresso (1 large 1–2 oz shot)
- 1/8 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cacao powder
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
Instructions
- Heat Milk: In a small saucepan or microwave, gently heat the milk until it is warm but not boiling, ensuring a comforting base for your mocha.
- Combine Flavors: Whisk in the peppermint extract, cacao powder, and maple syrup into the warm milk to evenly blend all the flavors together.
- Froth Mixture: Continue whisking until the milk mixture becomes warm and frothy. If microwaving, you can use a milk frother to help incorporate air and create a lovely foam.
- Assemble Drink: Pour the frothy milk mixture into a mug, then carefully top with the freshly brewed espresso for that rich mocha finish. Enjoy immediately!
Notes
- For a stronger mocha flavor, increase the cacao powder slightly.
- Use dairy-free milk options like almond or oat milk for a vegan-friendly drink.
- Adjust the peppermint extract to your taste; it’s quite potent, so a small amount goes a long way.
- Maple syrup can be substituted with honey or your preferred sweetener.
- To make it iced, chill the espresso and milk mixture before combining over ice.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: peppermint mocha, healthy mocha, espresso drink, peppermint coffee, cacao mocha, warm beverage, dairy-free mocha
