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What happens when you really, really, want a cafe mocha but really, really, really want to stay home in your pajamas? Make your own, that's what! Whether you just have drip coffee or espresso, you can bring the cafe into your own home quicker than you could change into real pants and get out the door. So put your wallet down and start with Step 1 below.

Method 1
Method 1 of 2:

Using Brewed Coffee

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  1. Here is what you'll need to make a mocha coffee drink using brewed coffee: [1]
    • 8 ounces freshly brewed coffee (or instant)
    • 1/2 cup (4 ounces) milk
    • 1 tablespoon (15 g) cocoa powder
    • 1 tablespoon (15 g) warm water or warm milk (milk makes the mocha richer and creamy)
    • Sugar (optional)
    • Whipped cream and cocoa (optional, for topping)
  2. To be closer to authentic, you'll want to use double-strength, dark-roasted coffee. And you could use instant coffee if you're in a pinch, but brewed coffee is just so much better. [2]
    • Coffee reaches "double-strength" when it's around 4 tablespoons (60 g) of coffee grinds to 6 ounces of water.
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  3. Combine equal parts of each and stir up in a small bowl. You'll need about 2 tablespoons (30 g) for one mocha drink.
  4. The more coffee you have, the more chocolate syrup you'll probably want. But be sure to leave room for milk!
  5. How much? Well, how big is your mug? 1/3 to 1/2 cup (3 to 4 ounces) is usually plenty.
    • You want the milk between 140 and 160°F (60 - 70°C). Any hotter than that and the milk burns, losing its flavor.
  6. If there's any foam, be sure to hold it back with a spoon, so it layers above the mocha on top.
    • If you like a really, really sweet mocha, add a teaspoon of sugar to your drink before you top it with foam.
  7. Chocolate or caramel syrup -- or even cinnamon or turbinado sugar -- is a nice touch, too.
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Method 2
Method 2 of 2:

Using Espresso

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  1. Here's what you'll need to make a mocha coffee drink using espresso: [3]
    • Espresso Roast (regular or decaf)
    • 2 tablespoons (30 g) hot water
    • 1 tablespoon (15 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
    • 1 tablespoon (15 g) sugar
    • A pinch of salt
    • 1/2 cup milk (any variety)
    • 1 tablespoon flavored syrup (optional)
  2. This will make the classic chocolate flavoring you can find in your favorite cafe; it will be so much more gratifying than just pouring Hershey's syrup into your coffee. That stuff is for children. [4]
  3. You want enough to fill just about half of your mug. If you don't want that much caffeine, consider combining it with a decaf roast or using fewer beans in your brew.
  4. If you have a steamer, of course. If you don't, you can just add your milk straight to your espresso and heat in the microwave or throw the milk onto the stovetop and heat to 160°F (70°C). But if you have an espresso machine, you probably have a steamer!
    • Make sure the tip of your steamer isn't too near the bottom or too near the top of your milk. You want it not too be too bubbly and aerated, but also not burned and over-steamed. It should only take about 15 seconds, and if you have a thermometer, stop around 160°F (70°C).
    • Is your mug Central Perk-style large? Then you may want closer to 3/4 of a cup.
  5. But be sure to hold a large spoon to the edge of your steamed milk to hold back the foam. You want that stuff to go on top, after the milk and chocolate have combined.
    • Once all the milk has gone into your mug, spoon out the foam so it rests uniformly on top, putting the proverbial icing on the cake.
  6. Bam! Mocha created. If you have a flavored syrup lying around that you'd like to add (maybe caramel or raspberry), add it at this stage.
  7. Because it's not enough that it tastes good, it's got to look good too. You can also top it with caramel, cinnamon, or turbinado sugar. Heck, birthday sprinkles and a cherry if you'd like. Now all you have to do is drink up!
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Community Q&A

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  • Question
    In the "Using Espresso" method, why is salt added? Is adding salt a must or optional?
    Community Answer
    Salt is supposed to increase the intensity of the flavor. I would say it is recommended, but optional.
  • Question
    Will decaf work, too?
    Holdencaulfield
    Community Answer
    Using decaffeinated coffee to make a coffee drink is perfectly acceptable for people who dislike caffeine, have heart conditions or do not wish to be energized.
  • Question
    How can I make a mocha coffee without special equipment?
    Community Answer
    You just need a few cups to measure out ingredients and mix things together. A saucepan is useful to heat up milk, or you can use a microwave. Generally, you can add the chocolate you prefer to your cup of coffee and milk.
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      Tips

      • If you added whipped cream, try adding chocolate syrup to it to make it like a coffee shop mocha with that chocolate drizzle effect.
      • If you want the iced version, simply put ice and the coffee in a blender and blend.
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      Warnings

      • Be careful not to heat anything more than you need to. It could burn the flavor or burn you!
      • Be careful not to burn yourself.
      • Experiment with various sweeteners to find one that tastes best to you. There are some concerns about the health effects of any kind of sweetener, from sugar to Splenda to NutraSweet and their derivatives.
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      Things You'll Need

      • A coffee maker, espresso machine or hot water to make instant coffee
      • Cup or mug
      • Spoon

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      To make a mocha coffee drink, start by brewing a strong pot of coffee. While the coffee is brewing, mix equal parts warm water and cocoa powder in a bowl to make chocolate syrup. Then, pour some of the coffee and chocolate syrup into a mug and stir the drink thoroughly. Finally, heat up some milk in the microwave or on the stovetop and pour it into the mug to finish your drink. To learn how to make a mocha coffee drink using espresso, scroll down!

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      Reader Success Stories

      • Joe B.

        Jan 17

        "Absolutely great recipe! I needed a touch more chocolate but maybe I just like mine sweet! Decaf works brilliantly ..." more
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