Dark Chocolate Mocha

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This Dark Chocolate Mocha is smooth, creamy, and easy to make on the stovetop. It’s lightly sweet and is best enjoyed on a chilly day.

This coffee drink was inspired by Starbucks’ Dark Chocolate Mocha which you can only get at their special Reserve stores. Since we don’t have one nearby, we created our own Dark Chocolate Mocha that’s not too sweet and is easy to make at home.

It’s made with a combination of 70% dark chocolate, cocoa powder, and freshly brewed espresso. The dark chocolate gives it a slightly thick consistency that makes this mocha extra delicious and indulgent.

It’s great for sipping on when it’s cold out and comes together in just a few minutes.

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Ingredients
Instructions (overview)
Tips and Serving
FAQ
📖 Recipe

A mug filled with a mocha drink and a spoon.

Mocha in a mug next to a napkin and a plate with cookies.

Ingredients

Below are notes about the ingredients. For a full list with measurements, check out the recipe card at the bottom of the page.

Milk: We use whole milk, but you can use any unsweetened milk of your choice.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: We use dutch-processed, but regular cocoa powder is fine too.
Dark Chocolate: For the best results, get a high-quality chocolate bar. We use 70% dark chocolate which is very bittersweet.
Salt: Adding a small pinch of salt enhances the other flavors.
Granulated Sugar: We prefer the neutral flavor of granulated sugar, but you can add a different sweetener if you want.
Espresso: You’ll need 2 shots of freshly brewed espresso.

Instructions (overview)

First, whisk the milk and cocoa powder in a saucepan over medium heat.
Next, whisk in the chopped chocolate, salt, and sugar until everything has melted.
Add the fresh espresso to the saucepan and heat until steamy and bubbles start to form along the edges. Don’t let it come to a boil.
Then use a handheld milk frother or whisk to foam the drink.
Pour it into a mug or glass and enjoy! If you want to go all out, add some whipped cream and chocolate shavings on top.

Tips and Serving

This drink is best served right away while it’s still hot.
For an indulgent dark chocolate mocha, add a dollop of whipped cream and chocolate shavings. You can also add marshmallows or even a dash of cinnamon.
We don’t recommend storing this drink since it’s best when it’s fresh. It only takes a few minutes to make so there’s no need to make it and reheat it.

FAQ

Can I use non-dairy milk?

Of course! We like using whole milk, but you can use any plant milk of your choice. To make a “skinny” version of this, we recommend using unsweetened almond milk. If you want an extra creamy mocha, use coconut milk.

Can I use a different sweetener?

Yes, feel free to use coconut sugar, maple syrup, or honey. If you’re using any of the latter two, add it to your drink after it’s been heated.

Do I have to use espresso?

No, you can substitute the espresso for ¼ cup (60 ml) of strong hot coffee. The taste will be a bit different since espresso has a much more intense flavor, but if you don’t have an espresso machine, coffee will work just fine.

Top view of a dark chocolate mocha with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.

Hands holding a cup of mocha next to a napkin and a plate with cookies on it.

If you love chocolate drinks, try our rich and creamy Coconut Milk Hot Chocolate. For coffee lovers, we recommend this Cinnamon Dolce Latte with Maple Whipped Cream.

Don’t forget to leave a STAR REVIEW and comment if you loved this recipe! Tag us on Instagram @fancifuleats so we can see your tasty creations! For more inspiration, follow us on Pinterest.

📖 Recipe