Mocha Coffee Recipe

What is Mocha Coffee?

Before we can make a mocha, we need to know what is mocha coffee made of!

Mocha is basically a fancy name for a chocolate-flavored coffee. Mochas tend to be made from strong coffee, which complements deep chocolate flavors really well, and thick, smooth chocolate syrup. These coffees can be made with warmed milk, or with foamed, frothed, or steamed milk, like a latte. They are often decorated with cream, syrup, and either chocolate chips, shavings, or a light dusting of cocoa powder for an indulgent treat.

Can You Make a Mocha at Home without a Coffee Machine?

Yes, while an espresso machine is useful, especially if you love coffee and enjoy experimenting with different kinds and flavors, it isn’t essential. You can mix your mocha ingredients without one.

Brew a cup of very strong coffee, however you would usually, whether this is with a French Press, an AeroPress, or using instant powder and boiled water. Stir in the chocolate syrup and divide into two mugs.

To warm and thicken your milk without the steamer on an espresso machine, use a milk frother if you have one. If not, you can add warm milk to a French Press (filling to around 2/3) and use the plunger, depressing repeatedly, to create thick, frothy milk.

Another option is pouring the milk into a jam jar and sealing it tightly. Shake this vigorously for 2 minutes (prepare for arm ache). Then open the jar. Microwave for 30 seconds and the foam will rise to the top, spoon this off, pour the warmed milk into your espresso, and top with the foam.

Making a Mocha without Chocolate Syrup

You don’t need any kind of fancy chocolate syrup from the coffee house to make a mocha at home. Standard chocolate sauce, the kind that you might use to top desserts or ice creams, will do.

If you don’t have this, try whisking 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder into your espresso, or even using warmed chocolate milk.