Starbucks-Style Peppermint Mocha

A rich, chocolatey peppermint coffee drink that mirrors the Starbucks holiday classic using raw cacao powder, organic peppermint extract, and coconut sugar instead of the chain's dutched cocoa, HFCS syrup, and artificial flavoring.

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Ingredients

  • 2 shots freshly brewed organic espresso (or 1/2 cup strong-brewed organic coffee)
  • 2 tbsp raw cacao powder
  • 2 tbsp coconut sugar
  • 1/4 cup filtered hot water
  • 1 cup grass-fed whole milk or unsweetened barista oat milk
  • 1/4 tsp pure organic peppermint extract
  • 1/4 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • Pinch of fine sea salt
  • Organic coconut whipped cream and raw cacao nibs, for topping

Clean swaps

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Reorder the shelf-stable staples for this recipe.

What you'll need

  • High-powered blender — Smoothies, nut milks, and blended drinks without chunks.
  • Nut milk bag — Strain almond or oat milk to a clean, creamy finish.
  • Cold brew pitcher — Steep coarsely ground coffee in cold water overnight — no machine needed.

Instructions

  1. Make the mocha sauce: whisk raw cacao powder, coconut sugar, and hot water together in a small bowl or mug until smooth and dissolved. Stir in sea salt.
  2. Brew the espresso or strong coffee directly into a large mug.
  3. Stir the mocha sauce into the hot espresso until fully combined.
  4. Add the peppermint extract and vanilla extract; stir well.
  5. Heat the milk in a small saucepan over medium heat until steaming. Froth using a handheld frother until foamy.
  6. Pour the frothed milk into the mug, holding back the foam. Spoon foam on top.
  7. Top with organic coconut whipped cream and a sprinkle of cacao nibs. Serve immediately.

FAQ

Can I make this iced?

Yes — let the espresso and mocha sauce cool slightly, fill a glass with ice, pour in the mixture, add cold oat milk, stir in peppermint and vanilla extracts, and top with coconut whip.

How do I make coconut whipped cream?

Refrigerate a can of full-fat coconut milk overnight. Open without shaking, scoop out the solidified cream on top, and whip with a hand mixer until fluffy. Sweeten with a little maple syrup if desired.

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