Peppermint Mocha

A peppermint mocha is probably the holiday drink I have the most nostalgia for. To me, this is the beverage I sip as I drive around town and finish up my holiday shopping. This annual ritual feels like living in a cozy Nancy Meyers’ movie to me. And while, sure, you could absolutely make this drink daily, I tend to reserve it for special moments, which is probably why my peppermint mocha recipe tends to be more on the decadent side.

While a classic mocha tends to me more espresso-forward (when I make it) and flavored with chocolate, the gloves come off for a peppermint mocha. While yes, this has espresso, it tastes more like a peppermint hot chocolate with whipped cream when I make it at home.

Ingredients

Espresso
Milk – or a milk alternative
Chocolate syrup – or a hot chocolate mix
Peppermint extract
Whipped cream – optional

I also like to garnish this with a mini candy cane or crushed candy canes. Peppermint bark would be a nice addition too.

Directions

First, add the chocolate syrup to your mug. I like to add most to the bottom, as it will mix with the hot espresso. But I will also drizzle some up the sides of the mug as well. If you are using a packet of hot chocolate mix instead, you can mix this with the hot milk.

Next, make your espresso. Pour the espresso shot into the prepared mug.

Next, steam the milk. You want the milk hot and to create some foam on top. If your espresso machine has a frothing wand, you can do this all in one step. If not, you may need to heat the milk then froth by hand or use a milk frother. Add the hot chocolate mix during this step to incorporate well if using.

Pour the hot milk into the espresso; the foam will naturally settle on top. Top with whipped cream, chocolate syrup and other garnishes.

Home Espresso Machines

We’ve tried many espresso makers over the years, and here are our favorites at different price points and skill levels:

Cafe Automatic Espresso Machine – My current machine. It uses any whole beans, so if you use high quality beans you’ll get high quality espresso. It makes espresso shots automatically (no barista skills required) and includes a milk frothing wand to heat and froth milk. I got this machine for Christmas a year ago and we use it almost every day and love it! It comes in three colors.
Stovetop Espresso – This is the cheapest way to make espresso at home. It’s more labor intensive and you will also need a way to grind your beans for best results. But, this is a classic method that works great when done well.
Breville Barista Touch – We bought this for a good friend as a wedding gift once and they said they love it. It’s a higher end machine that you will need some barista skills to operate, but it’s an excellent home espresso maker.
Nespresso Vertuo – For those who want an espresso maker that uses pods, this is my favorite. Depending what pod you use, it can make espresso or coffee.

Serving Suggestions

Since this drink is so festive why not make some Christmas cookies too?