Starbucks Peppermint Mocha: From The Egyptian Pyramids To Your Cup
Did you know that archaeologists found a mint in ancient Egypt’s pyramids? Yes, it is an unbelievable historical fact. Not only that we’ve been enjoying minty flavors for hundreds of years, but the ancient mint flavor pairs superbly with chocolate and coffee!
Starbucks peppermint mocha is a perfect pairing result, yet it’s super easy to make it at home and to cozy up on a cold night (or even on warm summer days). I’ve made this drink plenty of times in the last couple of months and just can’t get enough of it! Now it’s time to share my addictive (ancient) recipe with you.
What You Need
- 2 espresso shots
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons peppermint syrup or peppermint extract
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons chocolate syrup
- whipped cream
- crushed peppermint candies
AT A GLANCE
Prep Time:
5 minutes
Drink Yield
8 oz
How To Make a Homemade Peppermint Mocha
Okay, it still seems incredible that mint is an old flavor that dates back to ancient Egypt (1). But it’s not hard to get over the fact it wasn’t long before we combined it with chocolate and coffee, right? Not to mention that peppermint has a calming and numbing effect for easing stress (2).
Starbucks recipes are actually simpler to make than you might expect. And making a peppermint mocha at home is no exception. I’m happy to report that it only takes five steps to make a perfect replica of a Starbucks low-calorie peppermint mocha.
Step 1: Brew Espresso Or Strong Coffee
To make this peppermint mocha recipe at home, we have to start with coffee. Yes, espresso is the base of a mocha, which is essentially a latte with chocolate, and there’s also the mochaccino, which has more foam than a standard mocha.
So, if you have an espresso machine, pull a double shot.
Pro tip 1: If you don’t have an espresso machine, you can make a small amount of strong coffee using different brewing methods.
Step 2: Froth Milk
It would be best to attach a handheld milk frother or a steam wand to your espresso maker. If not, heat up ½ cup of milk in a saucepan until it boils. Remove from heat and whisk vigorously until a bit of foam appears.
Pro tip 1: If you want a skinny peppermint mocha Starbucks recipe, then use non-fat milk rather than full-fat or 2% milk.
Step 3: Add Chocolate Syrup
Add two tablespoons of chocolate sauce to your espresso or coffee and mix it together. In addition, you can use white chocolate if you want more of a Starbucks’ toasted white mocha vibe.
Pro tip 1: If you want a more dark chocolate drink, you can use melted dark chocolate, cocoa powder, or chocolate shavings.
Step 4: Add Peppermint Syrup
Next, add two tablespoons of peppermint syrup. You can use either peppermint syrup, peppermint extract, or crushed peppermint candy to add the peppermint flavor.
Step 5: Add Whipped Cream And Crushed Peppermint Candies
Finally, finish off the drink with whipped cream and garnish. Our favorite garnishes are extra crushed peppermint candy and choco syrup.
Pro tip 1: You can quickly turn this recipe into an iced mocha or iced peppermint mocha by using cold milk instead of heated, frothed milk. Or blend everything with some ice to make a Peppermint mocha frappuccino. That makes it a wonderful warm-weather option!
Alternative Starbucks Peppermint Mocha Recipe
If you don’t have a way to froth milk at home and still want a Starbucks copycat peppermint mocha, you don’t have to worry. Here’s a way to make a simplified version:
- Brew up two espresso shots or extra-strong coffee
- Put brewed coffee in a saucepan
- Add 1 cup of milk
- Add 2 tablespoons of peppermint syrup
- Add 2 tablespoons of choco syrup
- Bring all ingredients to a simmer
- Wait for at least 2 minutes
- Put it in a mug after removing it from the heat
Because you didn’t froth the milk, this drink will have more of a hot chocolate vibe rather than a regular peppermint mocha.
Final Thoughts
Making your perfect peppermint mocha at home is a joyful and easy process. You’ll be able to whip this out in no time.
You’ve seen a long history of playing around with mint combinations and experimenting with drink recipes never gets boring, especially when they include ancient flavors. This led us to conclude that maybe we’ll get some new recipe versions from you next time!
FAQs
Yes, Starbucks peppermint mocha is gluten-free. However, Starbucks can’t guarantee cross-contamination because there is gluten in the stores. But you’re more than likely to be fine ordering a peppermint mocha.
Starbucks peppermint mochas are not vegan originally. To make a peppermint mocha at Starbucks vegan, simply ask for an alternative milk like oat, soy, or almond milk.
A grande peppermint mocha from Starbucks contains up to 440 calories. A tall peppermint mocha has only 350 calories, and a venti has 540 calories. For the lowest-calorie option, go for a short peppermint mocha with only 240 calories.
References
- BuroDenG! (n.d.). Mint History. Mint history. Retrieved May 5, 2023, from https://www.barkleysmints.com/page/mint-history
- Peppermint. Mount Sinai Health System. (n.d.). Retrieved May 5, 2023, from https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/herb/peppermint
