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Cozy Copycat Starbucks Peppermint Mocha with Homemade Syrup

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A cozy copycat Starbucks peppermint mocha with homemade syrup that tastes better than the original. Quick, easy, and made with simple ingredients for a festive holiday drink.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 tablespoons homemade peppermint syrup
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 shot espresso or ½ cup strong brewed coffee
  • Whipped cream for topping
  • Crushed candy canes for garnish

Instructions

  1. Make the peppermint syrup: Combine 1 cup sugar and 1 cup water in a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, whisking occasionally until the sugar completely dissolves (about 3-4 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon peppermint extract. Let cool for about 10 minutes, then pour into a glass jar.
  2. Crush the candy canes: Place 2-3 candy canes in a ziplock bag. Use a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy pan to gently crush them into small pieces.
  3. Mix the chocolate base: In your mug, combine 2 tablespoons cocoa powder and 2 tablespoons homemade peppermint syrup. Stir until it forms a thick paste.
  4. Heat the milk: Pour 1 cup of milk into a small saucepan and warm it over medium heat until steaming but not boiling (about 150°F or until small bubbles form around the edges).
  5. Brew your coffee: Brew 1 shot of espresso or ½ cup of strong coffee.
  6. Assemble the mocha: Pour the hot milk into your mug with the chocolate-peppermint paste and stir until smooth. Add the espresso or strong coffee and stir again. Taste and adjust sweetness if desired.
  7. Top and serve: Add a generous dollop of whipped cream on top. Sprinkle with crushed candy canes. Serve immediately.

Notes

Don’t boil the syrup too long or it’ll turn into candy when it cools. Warm your mug before pouring to keep the mocha hot longer. The syrup keeps in the fridge for up to 3 weeks. For dairy-free, use oat milk or almond milk.

Nutrition

Keywords: peppermint mocha, copycat Starbucks, homemade syrup, holiday coffee, peppermint coffee, mocha recipe

Find it online: https://gleamgulp.com/cozy-copycat-starbucks-peppermint-mocha-with-homemade-syrup/