It’s the perfect time of year to enjoy a festive coffee: this Iced Peppermint Mocha uses just four simple ingredients and delivers a deliciously minty, chocolatey pick-me-up. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing holiday drink you can make at home in minutes—cheaper than a coffee shop and just as satisfying. If you love mint with your mocha, this recipe is a must-try.
The combination of rich chocolate and bright peppermint makes this drink feel like a warm holiday treat even though it’s served cold. It’s an approachable copycat-style beverage you can customize easily—use whole milk for creaminess, swap to decaf if you prefer, or add extra chocolate or peppermint for more intensity.
This recipe is great for mornings, afternoon treats, or entertaining during the holidays. Keep a small stash of chocolate syrup, peppermint extract (or syrup), and a supply of chilled espresso so you can mix one up whenever you want. Below you’ll find ingredient details, step-by-step instructions, variations, storage tips, and nutrition information to help you make the best iced peppermint mocha at home.
Ingredients
- Whole milk – Use whole milk for a rich, creamy texture. You can substitute a milk alternative, but flavor and texture will change slightly.
- Chocolate syrup – Adds the chocolate base of the mocha. Choose your favorite brand or homemade syrup.
- Chilled espresso – Brewed and cooled espresso gives the best concentrated coffee flavor. If you don’t have espresso, strong brewed coffee will work.
- Peppermint extract – A small amount adds the minty flavor. Peppermint syrup can be used instead for added sweetness.
See the recipe card below for exact quantities.
How to Make Iced Peppermint Mocha
Step One: Pour the milk into a tall glass and add the chocolate syrup. Stir thoroughly until the syrup is evenly combined with the milk. Add the chilled espresso and the peppermint extract, then stir again to blend the flavors.
Step Two: Fill the glass with ice and gently stir. Top with whipped cream and crushed peppermint candies or a drizzle of chocolate sauce if you like. Serve immediately.
Top Tip
This recipe is rich and indulgent; a single batch can easily serve two people if you prefer smaller portions. Adjust the peppermint to taste—start with a small amount and add more if you want a stronger mint flavor.
Variations
- Peppermint syrup: Substitute peppermint extract with syrup for a sweeter, more pronounced mint flavor.
- Toppings: Try dark chocolate shavings, a drizzle of mocha sauce, cold foam, or whipped cream with crushed candy canes for texture and visual appeal.
- Decaf option: Use decaffeinated espresso or strong decaf coffee to enjoy this drink later in the day without disrupting sleep.
Other fun options include making a blended peppermint mocha or swapping milk varieties for lower-calorie or dairy-free alternatives.
Equipment
Minimal equipment is required: a tall glass, a spoon for stirring, and a way to brew espresso or strong coffee. Optional tools include a milk frother for creating foam or a blender if you want a frappé-style drink.
Storage
If you make an extra batch, store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. For best flavor and texture, re-stir and serve over fresh ice. Whipped cream and crushed candies are best added just before serving.
Common Questions
Yes. Simply omit the ice and use hot espresso or coffee with warmed milk. The peppermint mocha is delicious both iced and hot—perfect for cold weather when you want a warm treat.
Absolutely. Use decaf espresso or strong decaf coffee to remove the caffeine while keeping the mocha flavor profile intact.
Stick with mint-themed toppings like crushed peppermint candies, peppermint chocolate shavings, or chocolate curls. For a different twist, try caramel drizzle, cocoa powder, or a sprinkle of festive edible glitter for presentation.
Related
Looking for more coffee recipes and variations? Explore other iced, blended, and seasonal coffee ideas to expand your home café menu.
-
Honey Latte Recipe
-
Vanilla Coffee Frappuccino Recipe
-
Frozen Latte Recipe
-
Frozen Cappuccino Recipe
📖 Recipe
Iced Peppermint Mocha
Ingredients
- 8 oz whole milk
- 2 oz chocolate syrup
- 2 oz chilled espresso
- ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
Instructions
- Add the milk and chocolate syrup to a tall glass and stir until fully combined.
- Pour in the chilled espresso and add the peppermint extract. Mix well to combine.
- Fill the glass with ice and stir gently to chill the drink.
- Top with whipped cream and crushed peppermint candies if desired, then serve.
Notes
Nutrition
Like this recipe? Follow the author on social media for more ideas and leave feedback if you try it. Sign up for email updates to get new recipes delivered to your inbox.