My Homemade Vanilla Latte Mix has become a favorite around here, so I knew I had to make a chocolate version! I love having a jar of homemade mixes ready to go, especially when I want a cozy coffee shop-style drink without leaving the house.

This Homemade Mocha Latte Mix is rich, creamy, and so easy to make. Just mix it with hot water or milk, add your favorite toppings, and you have a delicious mocha whenever you want one.

Jar of Mocha Latte Mix with an iced mocha latte and a hot mocha latte prepared int he background.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Instant Coffee Granules: Instant coffee is what gives this mix its coffee flavor. Use your favorite brand. Do not use ground coffee, as it will not dissolve in the drink.
Nonfat Dry Milk Powder: Dry milk powder helps make the mocha creamy and gives it a smooth texture. You can use plain powdered creamer instead if that is what you have.
French Vanilla Powdered Coffee Creamer: This adds sweetness and vanilla flavor while making the drink extra creamy. You can use regular powdered coffee creamer if you prefer, but the vanilla flavor will be a little less noticeable.
Dutch-Process Cocoa Powder: Cocoa powder gives this mix its rich chocolate flavor. I prefer Dutch-process cocoa because it has a smooth, deep chocolate taste, but regular unsweetened cocoa powder will also work.
Confectioners’ Sugar: Also called powdered sugar, the confectioners’ sugar sweetens the mix and blends easily with the other ingredients. It helps keep the latte mix smooth without any graininess.
Cornstarch: Cornstarch helps thicken the drink slightly and gives it a coffeehouse-style texture.
Optional Toppings: Top your prepared mocha with whipped cream, chocolate curls, cocoa powder, caramel drizzle, chocolate syrup, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra special treat.

Hot Mocha Latte that was prepared using a homemade Mocha Latte Mix.

FAQs

Can I use decaf coffee?

Yes! You can use decaf instant coffee granules in this recipe if you want to enjoy a mocha latte without as much caffeine. The flavor will still be delicious, and you can prepare it the same way.

Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of Dutch-process cocoa powder?

Yes! Dutch-process cocoa powder gives the mocha mix a smooth, rich chocolate flavor, but regular unsweetened cocoa powder will also work. Use what you have on hand.

Can I make this mocha latte mix without coffee?

The coffee is what gives this mix its classic mocha flavor, so I do recommend using instant coffee. If you want a chocolate-only drink, you could leave it out, but the flavor will be more like hot cocoa than a mocha.

Can I make an iced mocha with this mix?

Yes! This mix is delicious served cold. Dissolve the mix in a small amount of hot water first, then pour it over ice and add cold milk. Stir well before serving.

How do I make this mocha latte taste more like a coffee shop drink?

Try mixing the powder with warm milk instead of water for a creamier drink. You can also top it with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, cocoa powder, or a drizzle of chocolate or caramel syrup.

Ice Mocha Latte prepared using a Mocha Latte Mix.

Ways to Customize Your Mocha Latte

One of my favorite things about homemade drink mixes is that you can make them exactly how you like them. Try one of these easy ideas:

Make it extra chocolatey: Add more cocoa powder to your drink or top it with chocolate syrup for an even richer mocha.
Make a peppermint mocha: Add a splash of peppermint syrup or a few crushed peppermint candies on top for a holiday-inspired drink.
Add caramel flavor: Drizzle caramel syrup over whipped cream for a sweet caramel mocha.
Add a little spice: Sprinkle cinnamon on top for a warm, cozy flavor.
Make it extra creamy: Prepare the mocha with steamed milk instead of water for a coffeehouse-style drink at home.

Jar of Mocha Latte Mix with a wooden measuring spoon in the jar.

How to Store Homemade Mocha Latte Mix

Store the mocha latte mix in an airtight container or jar in a cool, dry place, like a pantry or kitchen cabinet. Keep it away from moisture, as that can cause the mix to clump.

For the best flavor, use the mix within 6 months. It may last longer, but the coffee and cocoa flavors will slowly lose some of their freshness over time.