This hot salted caramel mocha is like a cozy hug in a mug.
It’s rich, creamy, sweet, and just a little salty – the perfect combo when you want something warm and comforting.
I love this drink on a chilly day or as a little treat when I need a pick-me-up.
It tastes like something fancy from a café, but it’s super easy to make at home.
Why I Love This Recipe
I’ve been making this drink for years now – first to impress friends, then just because I started craving it all the time. It tastes exactly like something you’d order from a coffee shop, but it’s ready in 10 minutes at home.
- You only need simple pantry ingredients.
- It’s rich, creamy, sweet, and slightly salty – a perfect flavor balance.
- Makes your whole kitchen smell amazing.
- It feels like a luxury drink but is super affordable.
- You can customize it with different types of milk or chocolate.
What You’ll Need
- 1 ½ cups milk (any kind, but whole milk makes it extra creamy)
- ¼ cup brewed espresso or strong coffee
- 2 tablespoons caramel sauce (plus more for topping)
- 2 tablespoons chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt (plus more for topping)
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whipped cream (for topping)
Pro Tips
- Heat the milk gently so it doesn’t scald or form a skin.
- Use high-quality chocolate – it makes a big difference in flavor.
- Add the salt after the drink is mixed so you can control how much you want.
- Stir slowly to keep everything silky smooth.
- Want it stronger? Add more espresso without changing anything else.
Tools You’ll Need
- Small saucepan
- Whisk or spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Coffee maker or espresso machine
- Mug
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap milk for oat milk, almond milk, or coconut milk.
- Use cocoa powder instead of chocolate chips (2 tablespoons).
- Use decaf coffee if you want it caffeine-free.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon for a spiced version.
- Top with marshmallows instead of whipped cream.
Make Ahead Tips
You can mix the milk, chocolate, caramel, vanilla, and salt ahead of time and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready, just heat it up and stir in the espresso.
How to Make Hot Salted Caramel Mocha
Step 1: Heat the Milk
Pour 1 ½ cups of milk into a small saucepan and warm over medium heat until it starts to steam but doesn’t boil.
Step 2: Add Chocolate and Caramel
Add 2 tablespoons chocolate chips and 2 tablespoons caramel sauce to the warm milk. Stir until melted and smooth.
Step 3: Stir in Vanilla and Salt
Add ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract and ¼ teaspoon sea salt. Stir well to combine.
Step 4: Add Espresso
Pour in ¼ cup of brewed espresso or strong coffee. Stir gently to blend all the flavors.
Step 5: Serve and Top
Pour the mocha into a mug. Top with whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, and a tiny pinch of sea salt.
Makes
1 big mug (about 12 oz)
Time
10 minutes total
Macros (Approximate)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 7g
- Carbs: 38g
- Fat: 16g
- Sugar: 30g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
The fat in the milk helps blend the caramel and chocolate smoothly so it doesn’t separate. Salt brings out the sweetness even more and makes the chocolate taste deeper. Heating everything slowly lets the flavors mix perfectly without burning the sugars.
Common Mistakes
- Boiling the milk – it can burn or curdle.
- Not stirring enough – unmelted chocolate can sink or clump.
- Using too much salt – just a pinch at the end goes a long way.
- Skipping the espresso – it gives the mocha its signature bold taste.
What to Serve With
- A slice of banana bread
- A warm croissant
- Chocolate chip cookies
- A buttery scone
- Pumpkin muffins
FAQ
Can I make this without coffee?
Yes! Use more milk or even hot chocolate instead.
Can I make a big batch?
Totally. Just multiply everything by how many mugs you want to make.
Can I use store-bought caramel?
Yes, any kind works – thick, thin, homemade, or bottled.
Does it store well?
You can make the base ahead, but it’s best served fresh.
Can I microwave it instead of using a stove?
Yes, heat the milk in the microwave, then stir everything in carefully.
