Meet your new favorite pick-me-up: the Iced Peppermint Mocha! This beverage brings together refreshingly cool peppermint, rich chocolate, and bold espresso, all swirled with creamy milk and poured over ice for an irresistibly smooth experience. Whether it’s a sweltering summer morning or you’re simply looking for a cozy winter treat served chilled, each sip balances sweetness, depth, and a lingering minty tingle. If you love café-quality drinks but want something quick and fun to make at home, this delightful combo is a must-try.

Iced Peppermint Mocha Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how a handful of simple, everyday ingredients come together to create a café-style Iced Peppermint Mocha. Every element plays an important role, from the robust espresso to the touch of peppermint that elevates the whole drink. Here’s what makes this coffee shop favorite truly shine at home:

Espresso: The rich, concentrated base that brings bold flavor and keeps you energized.
Cocoa powder: Adds deep chocolate notes, making every sip extra decadent.
Maple syrup: Naturally sweetens the drink while lending a subtle, earthy undertone.
Peppermint extract: This is where the magic happens—just a dash wakes up all the flavors with cooling mint.
Milk (any kind): Balances out the intensity and makes it luscious; use your favorite dairy or plant-based milk.
Ice cubes: Essential for keeping your Iced Peppermint Mocha refreshingly cold from the first sip to the last.
Whipped cream (optional): For those irresistible dessert-like finishing touches.
Candy cane bits or chocolate shavings (optional): Add crunch, color, and an extra pop of flavor on top.

How to Make Iced Peppermint Mocha

Step 1: Add Ice to Glass

Start with a tall, sturdy glass and fill it right to the brim with ice cubes. This not only makes your Iced Peppermint Mocha delightfully cool, but also prevents it from getting watered down as you pour in the other components.

Step 2: Mix Espresso, Cocoa, Syrup, & Peppermint

While your espresso is still piping hot, whisk in the cocoa powder, maple syrup, and peppermint extract. The heat helps the cocoa and syrup dissolve smoothly, and the aroma that floats up as you mix is absolutely irresistible. This concentrated mocha-mint base is the flavorful heart of your drink.

Step 3: Combine With Milk

Now pour the espresso mixture over the ice in your prepared glass. Add your chosen milk—dairy or non-dairy both work beautifully—and stir well. Watch as the dark coffee blend twirls into the creamy milk, signaling your Iced Peppermint Mocha is almost ready for its big reveal.

Step 4: Add Toppings

If you’re feeling indulgent (who isn’t, with a treat like this?), crown your creation with a generous swirl of whipped cream. Scatter on some crushed candy cane bits or chocolate shavings for crunch and color. Not only do these toppings look gorgeous, but they also add that extra bit of café magic right at home.

How to Serve Iced Peppermint Mocha

Garnishes

Topping your Iced Peppermint Mocha is half the fun! Classic options include a mountain of fluffy whipped cream, a shower of chocolate shavings, or a sprinkle of bright, crunchy candy cane bits for instant holiday vibes. If you’re in a pinch, even a dusting of cocoa powder can make your glass feel special.

Side Dishes

This mocha is a treat all on its own, but if you want to pair it with something, I highly recommend buttery shortbread cookies, chocolate biscotti, or even a slice of homemade banana bread. The flavors play off the chocolaty, minty freshness, making your afternoon coffee break feel like a celebration.

Creative Ways to Present

Think outside the glass for your Iced Peppermint Mocha! Try serving it in vintage mason jars for a rustic look, or in sleek tumblers alongside festive paper straws at your next brunch. For an extra wow factor, rim your glasses with crushed peppermint or dip them in chocolate before pouring the drink. It turns an everyday coffee treat into an occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you prep a big batch, keep your leftover Iced Peppermint Mocha (without the ice or toppings) in a sealed jar or bottle in the fridge. It will keep its flavor for up to two days, so you can enjoy a refreshing glass whenever the craving strikes.

Freezing

Looking to get ahead? Pour the mocha-mint mixture (before adding milk) into ice cube trays and freeze. Pop these cubes into your glass instead of regular ice for a double boost of flavor and zero watering down, or blend them for a frosty, slushy treat.

Reheating

If you’re after a classic hot peppermint mocha, simply warm your stored mixture gently in a saucepan or microwave, then whisk in your milk. This way, you get the best of both worlds—iced or hot—depending on your mood and the weather.

FAQs

Can I make an Iced Peppermint Mocha without an espresso machine?

Absolutely! Strongly brewed coffee or instant espresso makes a great alternative. Just aim for a bold, concentrated brew to ensure that chocolate and mint flavors shine.

What’s the best milk for this recipe?

Any milk you love will work! Whole milk makes the creamiest version, but oat milk, almond milk, or soy are all delicious non-dairy options that blend smoothly with the other flavors.

Can I adjust the sweetness?

Definitely. Taste as you go and add more or less maple syrup to fit your preferences. Remember, you can always sweeten your Iced Peppermint Mocha more at the end, but it’s harder to take sweetness out once it’s in.

Is peppermint oil the same as peppermint extract?

No, and it’s important to use peppermint extract rather than essential oil. Extracts are made for culinary use and taste just right—peppermint oil is much more concentrated and can be overpowering.

Can I prepare the mocha base ahead for a party?

Yes! You can mix up a large batch of the espresso, cocoa, syrup, and peppermint extract, then chill it. When guests arrive, pour over ice, add milk, and let everyone top their own Iced Peppermint Mocha to taste.

Final Thoughts

It’s hard not to fall in love with the playful fusion of chocolate and mint in an Iced Peppermint Mocha. Whether you make it for a quiet moment or a special gathering, this homemade version will make you crave café-style drinks at home every time. So go ahead—grab your favorite mug, get creative with toppings, and treat yourself!