I've never been much of a coffee girl but I LOVE a good dark chocolate mocha. It's basically a hot chocolate with espresso but I love it for an afternoon pick me up! As much as I hate to admit it, Starbucks has the best mocha in my area, and I've tried all the mochas from the local coffee shops. I love supporting small businesses whenever I can, but something about theirs is so rich and satisfying; I can't get enough of it! But my wallet certainly can.
I've tested out so many recipes trying to recreate my own Starbucks mocha at home. I've bought mocha syrups, tried all the Pinterest copycat recipes but nothing ever tasted quite right. I was about ready to give up, but then one day, as I was digging through my baking cabinet, a light bulb went off, and I came up with the perfect recipe!
If you're used to using a Keurig to make your morning cup of coffee, this recipe might seem a little tedious, but it's quicker and cheaper than the $5+ trip to Starbucks so it's a win in my book!
Dark Chocolate Mocha Recipe
2-3 tbsp espresso (I use Starbucks Dark Roast Espresso coffee grounds)
1.5 tbsp Hershey's Special Dark 100% Cocoa
1 tbsp sugar
Dash of cinnamon *optional
8 oz milk (I use whole milk)
Begin by brewing your espresso. I use a small stovetop Moka pot; it makes enough espresso for two mochas so I store the extra in a coffee mug to easily warm up and use the next time I'm ready for another mocha!
In a coffee mug combine the cocoa, sugar and cinnamon. Stir in the hot espresso and mix until combined. Set aside while you prepare the milk.
Preparing the milk is the most tedious part. If you have a milk frother, this could be easier, but I just use a whisk and small saucepan and it works just fine! Pour 8 oz of milk into a small saucepan over high heat. Do not walk away! It doesn't take long for the milk to heat up and it will overflow if you let it get too hot (I'm speaking from experience!). Heat the milk until it stars to boil around the edges. Turn off the burner and whisk vigorously for about 30 seconds. The milk will become smooth and the top will foam, this creates that creamy mocha taste!
Pour the milk into your coffee mug, stir to incorporate the espresso and enjoy!
