11th Day of Christmas Coffee: Peppermint Mocha Bliss
Let's dive into the story of the peppermint mocha, explore why it's a December favorite, and, of course, learn how to make this seasonal treat at home when you don't have time to stop in to your favorite cafe.
Peppermint Mocha Bliss
It's nearly Christmas, and if there's one drink that embodies December's festive magic, it's the peppermint mocha. There's something about the combination of rich chocolate, a cool minty kick, and bold coffee that makes every sip feel like a little piece of holiday cheer. It's the kind of drink that pairs perfectly with cozy sweaters, twinkling lights, and your favorite holiday playlist on repeat.
Let's dive into the story of the peppermint mocha, explore why it's a December favorite, and, of course, learn how to make this seasonal treat at home when you don't have time to stop in to your favorite cafe.
Bonus points if you enjoy it while belting out Jingle Bell Rock in your kitchen—whipped cream for your mocha is optional but highly encouraged!
Why Peppermint Mocha Is a Holiday Star
Peppermint has long been associated with winter festivities, thanks to candy canes' ubiquity during the holidays. Pairing that iconic minty flavor with chocolate and coffee takes the seasonal vibes to the next level. It's indulgent and refreshing and gives you that caffeine boost to power through holiday shopping, cookie-baking marathons, or cozy nights wrapping gifts.
Moreover, the peppermint mocha isn't just a drink; it's an indulgent experience. From the first whiff of minty chocolate steam to the satisfying swirl of whipped cream on top, it's the kind of drink that feels like a luxurious treat, adding a touch of pampering to your holiday season.
The Perfect Peppermint Mocha Recipe
When you're busy and can't get out to visit your favorite specialty coffee shop, creating a peppermint mocha at home is easier than you think. With a few simple ingredients, you can replicate (and even elevate!) the version you'd get at your favorite coffee shop. Here's how to do it:
Homemade Peppermint Mocha Recipe
Serves: 1
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients:
1 cup milk (dairy or your favorite alternative: oat, almond, or coconut milk work beautifully)
1 shot of espresso (or 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee)
2 tablespoons hot chocolate mix or 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder and 1 tablespoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
Whipped cream (optional but recommended!)
Chocolate syrup or crushed candy canes for garnish
Instructions:
Prepare your coffee. Brew one shot of espresso or 1/4 cup of strong coffee. Set it aside.
Warm the milk. In a small saucepan over medium heat, warm your milk of choice (dairy or non-dairy) until it's hot but not boiling. If you have an espresso machine, you can also steam it.
Mix the chocolate. Add hot chocolate mix or cocoa powder to the milk, whisking until fully dissolved and frothy. My preference is unsweetened cocoa powder. If you like a sweeter mocha, add sugar to taste.
Add the peppermint and stir in the peppermint extract. Be careful not to overdo it—a little goes a long way!
Combine. Pour the espresso into your favorite mug, then top it with the peppermint-chocolate milk mixture.
Decorate. Finish with a swirl of whipped cream, a drizzle of chocolate syrup (milk or dark chocolate), and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes.
Enjoy!
Making It Your Own
One of the best things about making peppermint mochas at home is how customizable they are. Here are a few ideas to make this drink uniquely yours:
Swap the sweetener. Use a tablespoon of maple syrup instead of sugar for a richer flavor.
Go dairy-free. Coconut milk gives the mocha a creamy, tropical twist that pairs surprisingly well with peppermint. Oat milk is another excellent option for its natural sweetness.
Add a pinch of spice. Cinnamon or nutmeg can add an extra layer of warmth. I personally prefer cinnamon.
Turn it into a dessert. Serve it alongside a plate of holiday cookies, or dunk a biscotti in your cup for a truly indulgent treat.
The Soundtrack to Your Peppermint Mocha
Now that your peppermint mocha is ready, it's time to set the mood with the perfect holiday playlist. After all, no 11th Day of Christmas Coffee is complete without some festive tunes to accompany it.
Whether you prefer vintage Christmas songs or more recent sounds, Spotify has a couple of good playlists.
Peppermint Mocha Memories
One of the most memorable things about the holidays is how certain flavors and scents can bring back memories.
To this day, I can close my eyes and picture myself at my grandmother’s house when she and I would talk for hours at her kitchen table over a peppermint mocha.
Maybe you remember sipping on one during a snowstorm, huddled under a blanket, and watching your favorite holiday movie.
Or maybe it reminds you of meeting a friend at a coffee shop and catching up over mugs of minty chocolate goodness.
What about you? Do you have a special memory tied to this holiday favorite? We'd love to hear about it!
Why We Love Coffee Cocktails
If you're feeling extra festive, why not turn your peppermint mocha into a holiday cocktail? A splash of peppermint schnapps or coffee liqueur can take your drink to a new level—perfect for a holiday gathering or a cozy night in.
To make a peppermint mocha cocktail, prepare the recipe as usual, then add:
1 ounce peppermint schnapps
1 ounce coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa)
Stir it all together, and enjoy responsibly!
Share the Joy
The beauty of peppermint mochas is that they're as fun to share as they are to drink. Invite a friend, whip up a batch, and swap holiday stories while sipping your creations.
Or, if you're feeling generous, prepare a DIY peppermint mocha kit as a gift. Include a small bag of coffee beans from your favorite specialty coffee roaster, a mini bottle of peppermint extract, and a jar of hot chocolate mix, all tied up with a festive ribbon. These are perfect for the person you don't know what to buy, and this kind of kit travels well, too.
Final Sip
On the 11th Day of Christmas Coffee, we celebrate the peppermint mocha—a drink that perfectly captures the holiday spirit. It's rich, creamy, and full of flavor, making it a great companion for Hallmark Holiday movie nights, gift-wrapping sessions, or just taking a moment to yourself amidst the busyness of this time of year.
So, turn up the holiday tunes and enjoy! And don't forget to share your peppermint mocha creations with us—we'd love to see how you make this holiday classic your own!
Cheers to cozy drinks and happy holidays!
Until next time…
Patty Bonsera is the founder and editor-in-chief of Local Coffee Talk Magazine and host of the Local Coffee Talk Podcast. She combines her love for sharing the stories of specialty coffee and the passionate people behind them with her own love of travel and coffee to foster the connections among coffee enthusiasts, travelers, and local communities. Through her work with the magazine and podcast, she strives to inspire meaningful experiences and celebrate the vibrant culture of specialty coffee, one cup and conversation at a time.
