Let me just get this out of the way and say that I love coffee. I do. I also love fancy coffee drinks. It's a fact. And in the winter, that means peppermint mochas.
But I don't really want to pay upwards of $4 for one every day, so I've come up with own little version to make at home. I must say that it tastes very good, and is actually quite easy to make.
I know that several companies make flavored creamers, but I'm not a fan. I have never liked the non-dairy creamers. I've even tried the newer ones that are supposed to be made from milk and cream, but they didn't do it for me either.
This recipe is what works for me. Feel free to adapt it to your tastes {obviously}. I don't have an espresso machine of any kind, so I just use strong brewed coffee. I have a Keurig machine and love that I can make one cup at a time, and each cup can be different from the next. No, I was not paid by the company to say that. I just love my machine! Anyway, I know that I can get some espresso blend cups. I haven't tried them, but may.
Another product plug: a few years ago D bought be one of these little gizmos. It is handy for so many things, including mixing coffee drinks, hot chocolate, chocolate milk, and more. Put one on your Christmas wish list if you don't already have one. Seriously. My kids even fight over who gets to use it.
Ok, finally, the recipe. :) This doesn't have a "punch you in your face" peppermint flavor. It's a little more subtle. If you want a stronger flavor, I would suggest doubling the amount of peppermint extract in the syrup.
I am posting this without a picture. Why? Because Blogger is giving me problems, and since it's not one of my children, I can't ground it and send it to its room. In the meantime, imagine how yummy, warm, and inviting a mug of this would look. Hopefully later I can add the picture. :)
Homemade Peppermint Mocha
1 heaping Tbsp Ghirardelli Sweet Ground Chocolate and Cocoa
6 ounces heated milk (I use fat-free half-and-half; it's a contradiction, I know, but good!)
6-10 ounces strong brewed coffee
2-3 Tbsp peppermint simple syrup (recipe follows)
whipped cream (I used Reddi Whip)
crushed peppermint candies (I'm
In a very large mug, mix together the chocolate and milk. Add the coffee and peppermint simple syrup and mix well. Top with whipped cream and crushed peppermints (optional).
Peppermint Simple Syrup
3/4 cup water
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 tsp peppermint extract
Mix water and sugar in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat until boiling and sugar is dissolved. Add extract and let cook a couple more minutes. Remove from heat and let cool. Store in a covered container in the refrigerator. (I use a plastic squeeze bottle with a lid.)
Enjoy! :)
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