Mocha Latte (Starbucks Copycat) Recipe

Introduction

This Mocha Latte is a delicious Starbucks copycat that combines rich coffee, chocolate, and creamy milk for a cozy treat. It’s perfect for anyone who loves a sweet, chocolatey twist on their regular latte. You can easily make it at home with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces strong coffee
• 2 to 3 tablespoons granulated sugar, divided
• 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 4 ounces milk (dairy or dairy free)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (or store-bought whipped cream)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, whisk together the coffee, 1 to 2 tablespoons of sugar (adjust based on your sweetness preference), cocoa powder, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract.
2. Step 2: Continue whisking as the mixture comes to a boil, then remove the pan from the heat.
3. Step 3: Heat the milk in a microwave-safe bowl for 1 ½ minutes. Use an immersion blender or a battery-powered frother to froth the milk until small bubbles form.
4. Step 4: In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream with the remaining ½ teaspoon vanilla extract until it starts to thicken. Add the remaining tablespoon of sugar and whip until stiff peaks form.
5. Step 5: Pour the coffee mixture into a mug, add the frothed milk, then top with the whipped cream. For a decorative touch, you can pipe the whipped cream in a swirl using a piping bag with a star tip.
6. Step 6: Optional: Garnish with chocolate shavings or a drizzle of chocolate syrup before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use espresso instead of strong coffee for a more authentic mocha flavor.
• Swap granulated sugar for flavored syrups like vanilla or hazelnut for added taste complexity.
• Try using almond or oat milk as a dairy-free alternative for a different texture and flavor.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of chili powder to the cocoa mixture for a spicy kick.

Storage

This Mocha Latte is best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, store the coffee mixture and milk separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave and re-froth the milk before serving. Whipped cream is best made fresh each time.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use instant coffee instead of brewed coffee?

Yes, you can use strong instant coffee if you don’t have brewed coffee on hand. Just dissolve the instant coffee in hot water according to package instructions, then use it in place of the brewed coffee.

How can I make this latte less sweet?

Adjust the sugar amount to your taste, or omit it altogether if you prefer. You can also use unsweetened cocoa powder and skip the whipped cream topping for a less sweet drink.

Mocha Latte (Starbucks Copycat) Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 139 reviews

• Author: Simon
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 1 serving 1x

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Description

This Starbucks-inspired Mocha Latte combines rich coffee, cocoa, and creamy milk topped with luscious whipped cream. Perfect for a cozy coffee break, this copycat recipe balances sweetness and chocolate flavor for a delightful homemade mocha experience.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Mocha Coffee Base

• 8 ounces strong coffee
• 2 to 3 tablespoons granulated sugar, divided
• 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract, divided

Milk and Cream Topping

• 4 ounces milk (dairy or dairy-free)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (or store-bought whipped cream)

Optional Garnishes

• Chocolate shavings
• Chocolate syrup

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Instructions

1. Prepare Mocha Coffee Base: In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, whisk together the strong coffee, 1 to 2 tablespoons of sugar (according to your preferred sweetness), cocoa powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Continue whisking as the mixture comes to a boil, then remove it promptly from the heat to prevent burning.
2. Froth the Milk: Heat the milk in a microwave-safe bowl for 1 1/2 minutes until steaming hot. Use an immersion blender or a battery-operated milk frother to froth the milk until small bubbles start to form, giving it a creamy texture.
3. Whip the Heavy Cream: In a medium bowl, whisk the heavy cream together with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract until it begins to thicken. Add the remaining tablespoon of sugar and continue whipping until stiff peaks form, creating a smooth, fluffy whipped cream.
4. Assemble Your Mocha Latte: Pour the prepared coffee into a mug, then add the frothed milk. Dollop the whipped cream on top or pipe it into a decorative swirl using a piping bag fitted with a Wilton 2M tip or a cut corner of a large Ziploc bag.
5. Add Final Touches: Optionally garnish with chocolate shavings and a drizzle of chocolate syrup to elevate the mocha flavor and presentation. Serve immediately and enjoy your cozy homemade mocha latte.

Notes

• Use strong brewed coffee or espresso for the best mocha flavor.
• Adjust sugar quantity according to your sweetness preference.
• Substitute dairy milk and cream with plant-based alternatives for a vegan version.
• If you don’t have a frother, vigorously whisk the heated milk until foamy.
• Chocolate shavings or syrup garnish adds an attractive and tasty finishing touch.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Category: Beverage
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: mocha latte, Starbucks copycat, homemade mocha, coffee recipe, chocolate coffee beverage