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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
