Starbucks Peppermint White Chocolate Mocha (Low Cal & Better!)
This Starbucks peppermint white chocolate mocha is creamy, minty, and rich. Learn how to make it at home with less sugar, using simple ingredients. Vegan, keto, and iced variations included!
Ingredients
- Mocha Ingredients:
- ½ cup strong brewed coffee or 1 tbsp instant espresso + ¼ cup hot water
- ¼ cup white chocolate finely chopped
- 2 tbsp peppermint syrup homemade or store-bought
- 1 cup whole milk or oat/almond milk for dairy-free
- Whipped cream for topping
- Crushed candy canes or dark chocolate for garnish
- Homemade Peppermint Syrup:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar or ½ cup honey/monk fruit blend for a healthier option
- 1.5 tsp pure peppermint extract
Instructions
- Brew the Espresso
- Brew a fresh shot of espresso (or make strong coffee using instant espresso or French press).
- Melt the White Chocolate
- Use a double boiler method to melt white chocolate over low heat, stirring until smooth.
- Alternatively, microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring between each, to prevent burning.
- Steam or Froth the Milk
- Steam milk to 150°F for a silky microfoam.
- If no steamer, warm milk on the stove and froth with a French press or handheld frother.
- Assemble Your Mocha
- Add 2 tbsp peppermint syrup to a mug.
- Pour in espresso and stir well.
- Mix in melted white chocolate until smooth.
- Slowly pour in frothed milk, holding back foam until the end.
- Top with whipped cream and garnish with crushed candy canes or dark chocolate.
- Pro Tip: Layering ingredients properly enhances flavor and presentation!
Notes
- You can make this mocha vegan using oat milk and dairy-free white chocolate.
- For a keto version, use sugar-free white chocolate and monk fruit sweetener.
- Try the iced version by blending cold espresso with ice and frothy milk.