Cafe Mocha Recipe

By Stuart Smith | Last Updated May 11, 2020

Rating:

Preparation Time & Servings

Requires simple ingredients.

Nutritional Guidelines (per serving)

*Nutrition information should be considered an estimate.

TOOLS NEEDED: Espresso machine, milk frother or a whisk and a glass.

A coffee shop classic, this drink’s name has a history many are unaware of. The word mocha, though commonly thought of as a combination of chocolate and coffee, actually refers to the Yemen town, Al-Makha, from which coffee was exported around the world as early as the mid-1700s.

The type of beans coming out of Al-Makha quickly took on the name “mocha” and are said to have somewhat of a chocolate flavor. Somewhere along the way, as coffee spread around the world and it was discovered how delicious it is paired with chocolate, “mocha” became a name synonymous with this combination.

However, the specific term “café mocha” as it refers to a latte with chocolate syrup or powder was most likely invented in America.

Ingredients

2 ounces espresso
2 tablespoons chocolate syrup
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
10 ounces milk
Whipped cream, for garnish

Directions

Pour the espresso into a mug
Stir in the chocolate syrup and vanilla until combined
Place the milk in a wide glass or glass jar and microwave for 20 to 30 seconds until it is very hot but not boiling. Alternatively, heat the milk in a saucepan over medium heat for about 5 minutes until very hot but not boiling, watching it carefully
Using a milk frother, froth the milk until you don’t see any bubbles and you have a thick froth, 20 to 30 seconds. Swirl the glass and lightly tap it on the counter repeatedly to pop the larger bubbles. Repeat this step as needed
Using a spoon to hold back the foam, pour the milk into the espresso. Spoon the remaining foam on top
Top with whipped cream, as desired

Recipe Tip

For best results, use high-quality chocolate syrup. Even better, make your own from scratch! In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 cup sugar, 1 cup water, and ¼ teaspoon salt until boiling. Continue boiling for another 3 to 4 minutes, then remove from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon vanilla extract and cool. It will thicken more after being chilled.