This Apple Pie Mocha is like sipping fall in a mug. It’s got everything you love — rich chocolate, warm spices, smooth coffee, and sweet, spiced apple flavor all in one creamy latte. Think of it as if hot cocoa, a latte, and a slice of apple pie had a cozy get-together. It’s super easy to make at home and way cheaper (and tastier) than any seasonal drink from a coffee shop.
What You’ll Need
- ¾ cup milk (whole milk or oat milk work great)
- ¼ cup strong brewed coffee or 1 shot espresso
- 2 tbsp unsweetened applesauce
- 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ tbsp maple syrup
- ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of ground nutmeg
- ⅛ tsp ground allspice
- ¼ tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: whipped cream, extra cinnamon, or chocolate drizzle for topping
Pro Tips
- Use unsweetened applesauce for the best flavor balance — it keeps the drink from being overly sweet.
- Froth your milk for that barista-style finish.
- Warm your mug first so your mocha stays hot longer.
- Adjust spice levels to your taste — more cinnamon = more apple pie flavor.
- Don’t skip the vanilla — it rounds out the flavors perfectly.
Tools Required
- Small saucepan
- Whisk or milk frother
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mug
- Spoon
Substitutions and Variations
- Sub maple syrup with honey or brown sugar
- Use chai spice or pumpkin spice instead of individual spices
- Almond, soy, or oat milk all work well here
- Add a shot of espresso for a stronger coffee flavor
Make Ahead Tips
You can mix the applesauce, cocoa, maple syrup, and spices into a paste ahead of time and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just heat with milk and coffee when ready.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Add Applesauce, Cocoa, Maple, and Spices to Pan
In a small saucepan, add 2 tbsp unsweetened applesauce, 1 tbsp cocoa powder, 1 ½ tbsp maple syrup, ¼ tsp ground cinnamon, pinch of ground nutmeg, and ⅛ tsp ground allspice. Stir well until it forms a smooth paste.
Step 2: Add Milk and Heat
Pour in ¾ cup milk and whisk until smooth. Heat over medium until steamy, with tiny bubbles forming around the edges — don’t let it boil.
Step 3: Add Coffee and Vanilla
Pour in ¼ cup brewed coffee and ¼ tsp vanilla extract. Stir to combine and heat just until hot, not boiling.
Step 4: Froth and Serve
Optional: froth with a milk frother if you want extra foam. Pour into your favorite mug and top with whipped cream, a dash of cinnamon, or a drizzle of chocolate if you’re feeling fancy.
Leftovers and Storage
This is best served fresh, but you can store the mocha base (without milk foam or toppings) in the fridge for 1–2 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Why I Love This Recipe
One chilly fall morning, I had leftover applesauce and decided to stir it into my mocha just to see what happened — and wow. It turned into this cozy, cinnamon-spiced, apple-chocolate hybrid that tasted like apple pie and mocha had a baby. I’ve been hooked ever since.
- Combines fall flavors with chocolate and coffee
- Easy to make at home with everyday ingredients
- Naturally sweetened with maple syrup
- Feels like dessert but drinks like a latte
- Ready in under 10 minutes
Makes
1 serving
Total time: 8–10 minutes
Macros (approximate)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 4g
- Carbs: 28g
- Sugar: 21g
- Fat: 5g
Based on 2% milk, no whipped cream
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Applesauce adds natural sweetness and body, making the drink thick and smooth without heavy cream. Cocoa powder needs to be warmed and whisked to dissolve properly. The coffee adds depth and bitterness that balances the maple syrup and spices. Cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice bring warmth and that familiar apple pie flavor that pairs perfectly with the chocolate.
Common Mistakes
- Not whisking enough — cocoa and applesauce need to fully blend for a smooth texture
- Boiling the milk — it can separate or scorch
- Using sweetened applesauce — makes the drink overly sweet
- Adding vanilla too early — it can cook off and lose flavor
What to Serve With
- Apple muffins or coffee cake
- Cinnamon toast or a warm croissant
- Oatmeal with chopped apples and walnuts
- Chocolate chip scones or shortbread cookies
FAQ
Can I use apple juice instead of applesauce?
No, applesauce gives thickness and texture — juice would make it watery.
Can I use instant coffee?
Yes, dissolve 1 tsp instant coffee in ¼ cup hot water.
Can I make it iced?
Let the mixture cool, pour over ice, and stir in cold milk instead of heating.
Does this have caffeine?
Yes — from the coffee. Use decaf if you want to skip it.
