Homemade Peppermint Mocha {Dairy & Refined-Sugar Free!}

The Peppermint Mocha introduced me to coffee. Before I first tasted the delectable drink that doubles as a liquid dessert, I lamented that coffee was gross and I turned my nose up at any offers of it.

“No way, no how, will I ever become a coffee drinker!” I cried.

But, alas, one sip of a peppermint mocha…and the rest is history!

I still enjoy an occasional indulgence of a peppermint mocha at my local coffee shop (most places can make it year-round if you ask!), but I’ve learned that making this coffee treat at home will result in an even tastier–and healthier–beverage.

Without further ado, here’s my recipe for a homemade, healthier peppermint mocha (which can also be dairy free!):

    Print This!    

Homemade Peppermint Mocha

Ingredients

• 1 cup strong coffee*
• 1 cup steamed milk (I typically use almond milk, but I imagine coconut milk would lend itself to an extra sweetness!)
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons sucanat (unrefined, granulated sugar…which you can get at Vitacost if you don’t have access to it locally)
• 3 tablespoons peppermint syrup (Find my easy-peasy recipe for homemade peppermint syrup here!)

*The strength of your coffee is all your personal preference. If you aren’t typically a coffee drinker and just want to see if you like a peppermint mocha, try experimenting by just making a regular cup. I typically make mine with 1 Tbsp. of coffee to 1 cup water–which really isn’t very strong, but it’s twice as strong as a normal cup I’d make for myself. The coffee shop peppermint mocha is made with a very strong espresso.

Method

1. Make cup of coffee to your desired strength.

2. Steam your cup of milk in a small pot. Whisk until it’s nice and bubbly looking.

3. Pour coffee into mug and add the rest of your ingredients, stirring to dissolve the sucanat and cocoa powder. Pour milk over top of coffee mixture.

4. You can top with homemade whipped cream or a homemade marshmallow, and drizzling chocolate sauce or sprinkling cocoa powder or crushed peppermint candies on top would make even a nicer display for guests. But I’ll be honest: I don’t do all that. I guess I’m just lazy and want my peppermint mocha while it’s hot!

I would not say this about every recipe I post, but I promise you that this peppermint mocha tastes better than a coffee shop–and boy is it cheaper!

If you’re interested in experimenting with some other warm holiday beverages, check out Rachel’s Crock Pot Lattes, Stacy’s Honey-Spiced Latte and Emily’s Chai Tea (chai is my favorite–and the peppermint mocha comes in for a close second!).

What’s your favorite holiday beverage? Have you ever tried making a peppermint mocha–or other coffee shop drink–at home?

Please visit my sponsors:

Sweet Little Blessings: Meeting all your cloth diapering needs–with FREE shipping on all order over $40!

Plan to Eat: Meal planning made simple.

The Glass Baby Bottle: Eco-friendly, Toxin Free Essentials for Babies & Toddlers & Kids