Nothing hits like a cozy mug of hot mocha on a chilly morning.
It’s rich, creamy, and has just the right mix of coffee and chocolate.
This is my go-to treat when I want a coffeehouse vibe without leaving the house.
Super easy, super comforting.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup brewed espresso or strong coffee
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whipped cream (optional for topping)
- Cocoa powder or chocolate shavings (optional for topping)
Pro Tips
- Use high-quality chocolate chips for the richest flavor
- Whisk constantly to avoid lumps from the cocoa powder
- Warm your mug with hot water first so your mocha stays hotter longer
- Froth the milk for a café-style finish (even a handheld frother works!)
- Add a pinch of salt to enhance the chocolate flavor
Tools You’ll Need
- Small saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring spoons
- Coffee maker or espresso machine
- Serving mug
- Optional: Milk frother
Substitutions and Variations
- Use oat, almond, or soy milk instead of whole milk
- Swap chocolate chips for chopped dark chocolate
- Use maple syrup or honey instead of sugar
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a spiced mocha
- Make it iced: Let it cool and pour over ice
Make Ahead Tips
- Brew your espresso ahead of time and store in the fridge for up to 3 days
- Mix the dry ingredients (cocoa powder, sugar, chocolate chips) in a small jar so you can just add milk and coffee when ready
Recipe + Instructions
Step 1: Combine Cocoa, Sugar, Chocolate Chips
In a small saucepan, add 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder, 2 tablespoons sugar, and 2 tablespoons semi-sweet chocolate chips.
Step 2: Add Milk and Whisk
Pour in 1 cup whole milk and whisk everything together over medium heat until smooth and slightly steamy. Don’t boil it.
Step 3: Add Brewed Espresso and Vanilla
Pour in ½ cup hot brewed espresso and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract. Whisk until fully combined and hot, about 1 more minute.
Step 4: Serve and Top
Pour the mocha into your favorite mug. Top with whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa powder or chocolate shavings, if you like.
Servings and Time
Makes 1 large serving (or 2 small)
Takes 10 minutes total
Macros (Per Serving)
Calories: 280
Protein: 8g
Fat: 13g
Carbs: 32g
Sugar: 27g
Fiber: 2g
Why I Love This Recipe
There’s just something special about making a mocha at home. It feels like a little luxury in your day. I started making these on Sunday mornings when I wanted something cozy but didn’t want to leave the house. Now it’s my favorite way to start the day when I need a mood boost.
- Cheaper and better than a café mocha
- You control the sweetness and strength
- Simple ingredients you probably already have
- Takes 10 minutes start to finish
- It’s so satisfying to make your own
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Cocoa powder and chocolate chips melt into the milk to give depth and smoothness. Adding espresso enhances the chocolate flavor even more (they share flavor compounds!). The milk fats help carry all that richness while the vanilla ties everything together.
Common Mistakes
- Overheating the milk — it should be hot but not boiling
- Not whisking enough — cocoa needs help to fully dissolve
- Using weak coffee — the flavor won’t come through
- Skipping the vanilla — it really brings the chocolate to life
What to Serve With
- A warm croissant or buttered toast
- Fresh berries or a small fruit bowl
- A slice of banana bread or coffee cake
- A cozy blanket and a good book
FAQ
Can I make this without an espresso machine?
Yes! Just use strong brewed coffee. It’ll still taste amazing.
Can I use non-dairy milk?
Absolutely. Oat milk froths beautifully and adds creaminess.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a bigger saucepan and keep whisking to avoid scorching.
Can I make it less sweet?
Of course — just reduce the sugar or skip the chocolate chips.
How do I froth the milk if I don’t have a frother?
Whisk it quickly by hand or shake it in a jar (lid on!) after warming.
Leftovers and Storage
This mocha is best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan and whisk to recombine. Don’t microwave — it can curdle the milk or make it separate.
Final Thoughts
This hot mocha latte is the kind of simple pleasure that makes a regular day feel special. Try it out and make it your own — whether you like it extra strong, super sweet, or topped with all the whipped cream. Let me know how it turns out and drop any questions or tweaks in the comments!
