Healthy Peppermint Mocha Recipe
Introduction
Warm up your day with this Healthy Peppermint Mocha, a delightful blend of creamy milk, rich espresso, and refreshing peppermint. It’s a cozy treat that’s quick to make and perfect for any time you crave a festive coffee boost.
Ingredients
- 1 cup milk (regular or dairy-free)
- 1/4 cup espresso (1 large 1-2 oz shot)
- 1/8 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cacao powder
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
Instructions
- Step 1: In a small saucepan or microwave, heat the milk until it is warm but not boiling.
- Step 2: Whisk in the peppermint extract, cacao powder, and maple syrup until fully combined.
- Step 3: Continue whisking until the mixture is warm and frothy. If using a microwave, you can use a milk frother to help blend and froth the ingredients.
- Step 4: Pour the milk mixture into a mug, top with the espresso shot, and enjoy your healthy peppermint mocha.
Tips & Variations
- For a stronger chocolate flavor, increase the cacao powder to 1 teaspoon.
- Use vanilla almond or oat milk for a subtle nutty twist.
- Adjust the peppermint extract to your taste, but be careful as it is quite potent.
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top for extra warmth.
Storage
This peppermint mocha is best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, then whisk to restore froth before drinking.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular brewed coffee instead of espresso?
Yes, you can substitute brewed coffee, but the mocha will be less intense and slightly less creamy compared to using espresso.
Is this recipe dairy-free friendly?
Absolutely! Use your favorite dairy-free milk such as almond, oat, or soy milk to keep it dairy-free and still delicious.
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Healthy Peppermint Mocha Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Healthy Peppermint Mocha is a delightful and nourishing beverage combining warm milk, rich espresso, refreshing peppermint, and a touch of cacao and maple syrup. Perfect for a cozy morning or afternoon pick-me-up, it offers a balanced blend of sweet and minty flavors with a healthy twist using natural sweeteners.
Ingredients
Milk Base
- 1 cup milk (regular or dairy-free)
Flavorings
- 1/4 cup espresso (1 large 1–2 oz shot)
- 1/8 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cacao powder
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
Instructions
- Heat the Milk: In a small saucepan or microwave, gently warm the milk until it is hot but not boiling, preparing it to blend seamlessly with the other ingredients.
- Add Flavorings: Whisk in the peppermint extract, cacao powder, and maple syrup into the warm milk thoroughly to combine the minty, chocolate, and sweet flavors evenly.
- Froth the Milk Mixture: Continue whisking the mixture until it becomes warm and frothy; if using a microwave, a milk frother helps to incorporate air for a creamy texture.
- Combine with Espresso and Serve: Pour the warm, frothy milk mixture into a mug and top it with the prepared espresso shot. Stir gently if desired, then enjoy your healthy peppermint mocha.
Notes
- You can substitute the milk with any plant-based alternative like almond, oat, or soy milk to make it dairy-free.
- Adjust the peppermint extract quantity based on personal preference; it is quite potent.
- For stronger coffee flavor, use a double espresso shot instead of one.
- Maple syrup is used as a natural sweetener; honey or agave syrup can be used as alternatives.
- To enhance frothiness without a milk frother, vigorously whisk or shake the milk mixture in a sealed jar before heating.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: peppermint mocha, healthy coffee drink, cacao mocha, peppermint coffee, maple syrup mocha
