Peppermint Mocha

Citrus Free, Corn Free, Egg Free, Gluten Free, Grain Free, Nut Free, Pescatarian, Soy Free, Vegetarian

274 Calories | 5g Protein | 24g Carbs | 17g Fat | 1g Fiber

10 minutes | 1 servings

This peppermint mocha is rich, frothy, and takes just 10 minutes to pull together. The cocoa blends into warm milk creating a velvety base, while the peppermint adds a cool, refreshing taste to cut through the sweetness from the maple syrup.

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Why You'll Love This

This is the perfect drink to take a moment to slow down, wrap your hands around the warm mug, and savor the combination of rich chocolate and minty coolness. 10 minutes, easily customizable, no special equipment. Perfect for a chilly morning when night sweats had you up all night and you just need a moment before facing the day.

The Nutrition Profile

This drink delivers 274 calories with 5g of protein and 17g of fat, primarily from the whole milk. You’re also getting calcium, magnesium, and antioxidants. We all know that bone loss accelerates during perimenopause so making sure we get enough nutrients in our diet becomes more and more of a priority with each passing year. Also, the maple syrup bumps up the sweetness without relying on refined sugar.

The Ingredient List

You probably have most of these ingredients already. Whole milk creates that coffee shop creaminess, but you can easily swap in your preferred plant-based alternative if dairy doesn't agree with you anymore.

For the espresso, use whatever brewing method you prefer, whether that's a fancy machine, a stovetop moka pot, or even just strong brewed coffee.

The cacao powder is unsweetened, so look for it in the baking aisle near the cocoa powder. Peppermint extract packs serious flavor in just a tiny amount, so start with the recipe amount and add more to taste. If peppermint triggers any sensitivity, you can skip it entirely and make this a straight-up mocha.

The Practical Stuff

This is best enjoyed fresh and hot, so make it right before you're ready to drink it. If you want to prep ahead, you can measure out the ingredients beforehand, but since it comes in at just 10 minutes from start to finish, it’s really not saving much, if any time.

You'll need a small saucepan and a whisk, that's it. No special equipment required. The hardest part is remembering to brew your espresso before you start heating the milk, so everything's ready at the same time.

The Method

Start by combining the milk, maple syrup, cacao powder, sea salt, and peppermint extract in a small saucepan over medium heat. While the milk mixture is heating, brew your espresso.

Watch the saucepan closely, whisking continuously as everything warms up. This constant whisking does two things: it prevents the cacao from clumping and creates that signature frothy texture. Keep whisking until you see the milk start to steam and bubble slightly around the edges, that's when you know it's ready.

Pour the espresso into your favorite mug first, then slowly pour the warmed milk mixture over top. This creates nice layers and keeps the temperature just right.

Top with whipped cream if you're feeling fancy and add a few dark chocolate chips for a little crunch and extra chocolate hit. The chips will start to melt slightly from the heat of the drink, which is exactly what you want.

Why This Works

This peppermint mocha is warm, comforting, and feels like a genuine treat. The flavors are rich and satisfying, the preparation is simple enough for your most chaotic mornings, and you can customize everything to work with your body's current preferences. In other words, a perfect way to start your day.

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