This Peppermint Mocha Recipe Will Save You a Trip to Starbucks

Red cups are back, people, but that doesn’t mean you have to depend on Starbucks to sip on something deliciously warm this season in order to stay on trend.

Dropping a dime (or 50!) on a holiday drink from the iconic coffee chain can get tireless and expensive after some time, so it’s time to pull out all the stops for this caffeine-induced DIY that’s easily made right in your own kitchen. Turn the counters into an espresso bar right in the comfort of your own home because it’s time to make your own Copycat Starbucks Peppermint Mocha.

Here’s a simple recipe for a knockoff on the original Starbucks Peppermint Mocha right in time for the winter season in order to keep your wallet and heart full during the holidays.

(Note: the recipe requires the use of an espresso machine. We recommend the Mr. Coffee ECM250 4-Cup Espresso Maker.)

Copycat Starbucks Peppermint Mocha

Prep time: 5 minutes

Brew time: 5 minutes

Ingredients (in mixing order):

• 3 tbsp. powdered baking cocoa
• 3 tbsp. warm water
• 1 ½ tbsp. peppermint syrup or crème de menthe
• 4 oz. espresso
• 12 oz. steamed milk (any type will do)
• Whipped cream
• Red sugar crystals, for garnish

Directions:

1. Mix the powdered baking cocoa with the water in a 16 oz. mug until it reaches a syrupy consistency.
2. Add the homemade shot of espresso to the chocolate mixture in the mug.
3. Pump the peppermint syrup or crème de menthe into the espresso.
4. Allow the milk to steam. Once hot, pour milk into the cup. Stir contents lightly.
5. Douse the top with a dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle the red sugar crystals over the cream for the pretty effect.
6. Ta-dah! You now can pass as a barista and made yourself a mighty fine holiday drink! (Don’t forget your red cup if you have one.)