Caffè Mocha Recipe
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The combination of rich espresso, velvety steamed milk, and decadent chocolate results in a delightfully delicious beverage that strikes a balance between the boldness of coffee and the sweetness of chocolate.
Caffè Mocha is the perfect morning pick-me-up, especially during the cold weather months, and making this recipe at home keeps them cost effective!
Looking for more delicious coffee and chocolate inspired treats? Check these recipe too! Chocolate Mocha Cookies, Caffè Mocha Mug Cake, Mocha Almond Fudge Truffle Pie, and Classic Tiramisu.
Ingredients
- Chocolate: The distinguishing feature of a mocha is the addition of chocolate. Typically, this is in the form of chocolate syrup or hot cocoa powder.
- Espresso: This is the base of the mocha, providing a strong and concentrated coffee flavor. Espresso is brewed by forcing hot water through finely-ground coffee beans.
- Steamed Milk: The espresso is mixed with steamed milk, creating a creamy and smooth texture. The steaming process involves heating and frothing the milk, adding a luxurious texture to the drink.
- Flavored syrup (optional)
- Whipped Cream (optional): Some variations of mochas include a dollop of whipped cream on top, adding an extra layer of richness and indulgence.
- Shaved chocolate (optional)
Check out the printable recipe card below for the complete recipe and detailed instructions.
Tools Used
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- A Professional Espresso Machine – I have a discontinued Lelit Diana machine
- An Automatic Espresso Machine
- A Starter Espresso Machine
- Milk Frothing Jug
- Espresso Pitcher
- Instant Read Thermometer
- Coffee Grinder
How to make Caffè Mocha at Home
First we need to decided on a chocolate base, since a Caffè Mocha is basically espresso in hot chocolate. You have your choice of:
One ounce of a chopped, dark chocolate bar.
Or one ounce (about 4 tablespoons) of Double Chocolate Hot Cacao Mix.
Add 3 ounces of fresh Espresso.
And stir until it starts to dissolve. Pour in 8 ounces of steamed milk (165°F.)
You can use the steam wand on the espresso machine…or heat in the microwave for 1 minute and 40ish seconds.
Stir until completely dissolved. Top with whipped cream (click here for Coconut Whipped Cream) and cocoa powder or sprinkle of chocolate shavings.
Ahhh, heaven in a cup!
FAQ’s
Yes, you can use various types of chocolate. Common choices include chocolate syrup, cocoa powder, or even melted chocolate. Experiment with dark, milk, or white chocolate based on your preference.
A mocha contains espresso, giving it a strong coffee flavor, while hot chocolate is made with hot milk and chocolate without coffee.
Absolutely! You can use strong brewed coffee as a substitute for espresso. While the flavor profile may vary slightly, it’s still possible to create a delicious mocha at home.
Ultimately, the amount of chocolate is a personal preference. Start with a smaller amount and adjust according to your taste. You can always add more chocolate if you prefer a sweeter and richer flavor.
Absolutely! Use non-dairy milk alternatives such as almond, cashew, or oat milk (I like vanilla flavored), and choose vegan chocolate or cocoa powder. Top with non-dairy whipped topping and you’re all set!
Nope! Whipped cream is optional. It adds an extra layer of indulgence, but if you prefer a lighter drink (less calories), you can leave it off.
Yes! You can turn your mocha into an iced or cold version by using chilled espresso, cold milk, and serving it over ice cubes.
What flavored syrups are best in a mocha?
The choice of flavored syrups for a Caffè Mocha largely depends on personal preference, but here are some popular options that can add an extra layer of flavor:
- Peppermint Syrup: Perfect for the holiday season, peppermint syrup adds a refreshing and cool minty kick to your mocha.
- Raspberry Syrup: For those who enjoy a fruity twist, raspberry syrup can add a sweet and tangy element to your mocha.
- Vanilla Syrup: Adds a sweet and creamy vanilla note to complement the chocolate and coffee flavors.
- Hazelnut Syrup: Offers a nutty and slightly sweet flavor profile, creating a delightful twist to the traditional mocha.
- Caramel Syrup: Brings a rich and buttery caramel sweetness that pairs well with the mocha’s chocolatey goodness.
When experimenting with flavored syrups, it’s a good idea to start with a small amount (2 to 3 tablespoons) added before the steamed milk, and adjust to taste. You can also mix and match syrups to create your own custom flavor combination.
Recipe Inspiration
My obsession with mochas is well known amongst my family and friends. I would go to Starbucks every chance I got, until they started raising their prices!
First they raised the cost of non-dairy milk without giving a discount for not getting the whipped cream on top. Enough was enough and I decided to recreate my favorite Starbuck’s drink at home.
I started ordering the ingredients online and then I did the math. Using regular milk, chocolate syrup and espresso beans from an online wholesale store…each drink cost .53 to make at home!! It only took about a year for my expensive espresso machine to pay for itself!
After a few tries I perfected my technique and even started sending mochas home with anyone that came to visit. It may seem intimidating at first, but I guarantee that you will be an accomplished barista in no time!
Serving Suggestions
- Cinnamon Rolls
- Cinnamon Pecan Coffee Cake
- Instant Pot Egg Bites
- Mocha Chip Muffins
- Plain or chocolate croissants
- Biscotti
Did you try this recipe? I’d love to see it!
Tag @cookingwithcurls on Instagram & Facebook and leave a ⭐️⭐⭐⭐⭐ review below!
Enjoy!!
Caffè Mocha
Equipment
- Espresso Machine
Ingredients
- 1 ounce double chocolate hot cacao mix – about 4 tablespoons or 1 ounce chocolate bar, chopped
- 3 ounces fresh espresso
- 8 ounces steamed milk I use unsweetened vanilla cashew milk
- 2 to 3 tablespoons flavored syrup optional – I used peppermint
- whipped cream
- shaved chocolate or cocoa powder optional
Instructions
- Place hot cacao mix or chopped chocolate bar in the bottom of a large coffee mug.
- Pour in 3-ounces fresh espresso, stir until dissolved. Add 2-3 tablespoons flavored syrup (if desired).
- Pour in 8-ounces steamed milk (165°F.), stir to combine.
- Top with whipped cream and sprinkle chocolate shavings or cocoa powder, if desired.
Notes
- You can use strong brewed coffee as a substitute for espresso. While the flavor profile may vary slightly, it’s still possible to create a delicious mocha at home.
- Use non-dairy milk alternatives such as almond, cashew, or oat milk (I like vanilla flavored), and choose vegan chocolate or cocoa powder. Top with non-dairy whipped topping for a delicious non-dairy/vegan mocha.
- You can turn your mocha into an iced or cold version by using chilled espresso, cold milk, and serving it over ice cubes.
This looks like the liquid equivalent of a cozy blanket – I can’t wait to try it. Now I’m almost dreaming of a winter storm to cuddle up and enjoy it with 😉
This looks amazing!!!!
Yum!! This is perfect for the snow storm we have coming our way!
The perfect cup, yum! Just stopping in from Foodie Friday to say hello!!