Peppermint Mocha Hot Cocoa Mix is like having your favorite coffee shop drink right at home! It has chocolate, coffee, and peppermint in every cup. Just stir the mix into hot milk or water, add whipped cream, and enjoy!
Make a jar to keep at home or share with friends during the holidays! If you love a warm chocolatey drink, check out my Hot Chocolate Recipes for more tasty ideas. You can also find more sweet treats in my Peppermint Recipes collection!
Ingredients & Substitutions
- Confectioners’ sugar: Also called powdered sugar, this sweetens the mix and helps it blend smoothly into the drink.
- Powdered milk: Gives the hot cocoa a creamy taste when mixed with water. Whole milk powder can also be used for a richer drink.
- Dutch-processed cocoa powder: Gives the mix its chocolate flavor. Natural unsweetened cocoa powder can also work, but the flavor may be a little different.
- Espresso powder: Adds the coffee flavor that makes this a mocha. Instant coffee granules work, too, although they may not dissolve quite as smoothly.
- Peppermint candies: Finely crushed peppermint candies add a minty flavor and little pops of color. Crush them into small pieces so they mix well into the powder.
- Kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and brings out the chocolate flavor. If using table salt, use a little less.
- For serving: Stir the mix into hot water or milk, then top with whipped cream and extra crushed peppermint candies, if desired. Milk makes a creamier drink, while water lets the chocolate, coffee, and peppermint flavors stand out.
Tips for the Best Peppermint Mocha Hot Cocoa Mix
- Crush the peppermint candies finely. Smaller pieces mix more evenly into the powder and are easier to sip around when making your drink.
- Choose your coffee flavor. Espresso powder gives the mix a deeper coffee taste, while instant coffee granules are an easy option, too.
- Stir well before serving. Give the mix a good stir in its container before measuring, since the ingredients may settle as they sit.
- Use hot milk for a creamier drink. Hot water works well, too, but milk makes each mug richer.
- Make it a homemade gift. Spoon the mix into a clean jar with an airtight lid, then add a label with the serving directions and a festive ribbon. It’s a fun gift for friends, neighbors, or teachers!
FAQs
Can I use instant coffee instead of espresso powder?
Yes! Instant coffee granules work well in this mix. The coffee flavor may be a little milder, so you can adjust the amount to taste.
Can I make this without the coffee?
Yes! You can leave out the espresso powder or instant coffee for a peppermint hot cocoa mix. The flavor will be more like chocolate and peppermint than a mocha.
Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of Dutch-processed cocoa powder?
Yes! Natural unsweetened cocoa powder can be used. The chocolate flavor and color may be a little different, but the mix should still work.
Can I make this with hot milk instead of water?
Absolutely! Hot milk makes a creamier, richer drink. Hot water works, too, and is an easy option when you want to make a mug quickly.
How do I keep the peppermint candies from clumping?
Crush the candies finely and make sure the mix is stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Moisture can cause the peppermint pieces to stick together.
Can I give this hot cocoa mix as a gift?
Yes! Spoon the mix into a clean jar or airtight container and add a label with the serving directions. You could tie on a small bag of crushed peppermint candies or include a mug for a fun holiday gift.
How To Make a Peppermint Mocha
Making a peppermint mocha with this homemade mix is easy! You only need a few minutes and your favorite mug.
- Add the mix. Add ¼ cup of Peppermint Mocha Hot Cocoa Mix to a mug.
- Add hot liquid. Pour in 1 cup of hot water or hot milk. Stir until the mix dissolves completely.
- Add toppings. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies, if desired.
Enjoy it while it’s warm! Use hot milk for a creamier drink or hot water for a lighter option.
How To Store Peppermint Mocha Hot Cocoa Mix
Room Temperature: Store the mix in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months. Keep it away from heat and moisture to help prevent clumping and keep the peppermint candies fresh.
After Making a Mug: Enjoy each mug right after preparing it. If you have leftover prepared hot cocoa, refrigerate it in a covered container and use it within 2 days. Reheat gently, stirring well before serving.
Peppermint Mocha Hot Cocoa Mix
Ingredients
- 2 cups (250 g) confectioners' sugar
- 2 cups (136 g) powdered milk
- 1 cup (118 g) Dutch-processed cocoa powder
- ½ cup (48 g) espresso powder, or instant coffee granules
- ½ cup peppermint candies, finely crushed*, about 20 starlight peppermint candies
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
For Serving (Per Mug)
- ¼ cup peppermint mocha hot cocoa mix
- 1 cup hot water, or milk
- Whipped cream, optional, for topping
- Finely crushed peppermint candies, optional, for topping
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, powdered milk, cocoa powder, espresso powder, crushed peppermint candies, and salt until thoroughly combined.
- Transfer the mixture to an airtight container. Store in a cool, dry place.
To Make One Peppermint Mocha Hot Cocoa
- Add ¼ cup of the mix to a mug.
- Pour in 1 cup of very hot water or hot milk. Stir until the mix is completely dissolved.
- Top with whipped cream and additional crushed peppermint candies, if desired.
Notes
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