There are two kinds of people during the holidays: the ones who pretend they don’t like peppermint season, and the ones who order a peppermint mocha the second it’s socially acceptable. If you’re here, you’re probably the second kind, and honestly, same.

The peppermint mocha latte is a holiday icon for a reason. It’s rich, chocolatey, lightly minty, and somehow manages to feel festive without trying too hard. The only downside? Most café versions are loaded with sugar, dairy, and syrups that overpower the coffee. The good news: making it at home is easier than you think and better when you control the ingredients.

This version keeps everything cozy and indulgent, but cleaner, creamier, and fully customizable.

What Is a Peppermint Mocha Latte?

At its core, a peppermint mocha latte is a mix of coffee (or espresso), chocolate, peppermint, and milk. The magic is in the balance: bold coffee, deep cocoa, and just enough peppermint to feel fresh, not toothpaste-adjacent.

Making it at home means you can dial the flavors exactly how you like them. More chocolate? Done. Subtle mint? Absolutely. Extra creamy? Always an option.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe makes one generous mug. Double it if you’re sharing or don’t!

 - 1 cup hot brewed coffee or espresso

 - 1 tablespoon cocoa powder or melted dark chocolate

 - 1–2 teaspoons sweetener (maple syrup, sugar, or your choice)

 - ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract (start small; peppermint is powerful)

 - ½ cup prepared plant milk or plant milk concentrate

 - Optional toppings: dairy-free whipped cream, chocolate shavings, crushed candy cane

How to Make a Peppermint Mocha Latte

Step 1: Mix the chocolate base

In your mug, whisk together the cocoa powder and sweetener with a splash of hot coffee until smooth. This prevents clumps and gives you a rich chocolate base.

Step 2: Add the coffee

Pour in the rest of your hot coffee or espresso and stir well. At this stage, it should smell like a proper mocha: deep, cozy, and slightly indulgent.

Step 3: Add peppermint (carefully)

Stir in the peppermint extract. Start with less than you think you need, you can always add more, but you can’t un-mint a latte.

Step 4: Add the milk

Heat your plant milk separately, or prepare a thicker, creamier version like JOI’s clean-label vegan milk products if you like your lattes rich. Our creamers are 100% vegan, dairy-free, and free from gums or preservatives. Made from real ingredients like oats, avocado oil, and MCT oil, they are rich in prebiotics and designed to support gut health naturally!

Pour it into the coffee and stir gently.

Step 5: Finish and serve

Top with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or a pinch of crushed candy cane if you’re feeling festive. Sip immediately.

Tips for the Best Peppermint Mocha

 - Don’t overdo the mint. Peppermint should complement the chocolate, not hijack the mug.

 - Use good cocoa. The better the chocolate, the better the latte; this isn’t the place for dusty hot chocolate mix.

 - Adjust the creaminess. A more concentrated plant milk makes the drink feel café-level indulgent.

 - Add peppermint last. This gives you more control over flavor and prevents accidental over-pouring.

Make It Your Own

 - Extra cozy: Add a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla.

 - Less sweet: Skip syrups and let the cocoa do the work.

 - Iced version: Make the base with hot coffee, cool it slightly, then pour over ice with cold plant milk.

 - Dessert-style: Top with whipped cream and shaved dark chocolate.

Why This Latte Belongs in Your Holiday Rotation

The peppermint mocha latte isn’t just a drink; it’s for slow mornings, late-night gift wrapping, and that first sip that makes the season feel real. Making it at home means fewer ingredients, better flavor, and a cup that actually tastes like what you’re craving.

One mug, five minutes, and suddenly your kitchen feels like the coziest café in town. Keep a handful of JOI in your kitchen and you’re good to go!