Homemade Low Calorie Peppermint Mocha

red and green pottery mug with whipped cream topped mocha on holiday plaid tablecloth

5 from 2 votes

All the classic peppermint mocha taste in an easy lighter healthier homemade version. While the recipe calls for low fat milk, feel free to substitute whatever milk you prefer. Skim milk, regular milk, or any of the non-dairy milks will all work.

Prep Time3

Cook Time2

Total Time5

Course: Beverage

Cuisine: American

Keyword: holiday mocha, low fat peppermint mocha, mint mocha

Servings:

Author: Martha McKinnon | Simple Nourished Living

Equipment

Ingredients

1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder (I used Hershey's Special Dark)
2 tablspoons no calorie sweetener (I used 1 tablespoon Truvia)
1/4 teaspoon cornstarch (I used a heaping 1/4 teaspoon)
2/3 cup warm water
1/2 teaspoon instant coffee
1/8 teaspoon peppermint extract
1/4 cup low fat milk (or milk of your choice)
2 tablespoon light whipped cream (from aerosol can)

Instructions

Place cocoa powder, sweetener, and cornstarch in a large microwave-safe coffee mug. Whisk in water and instant coffee if desired.
Place cup in the microwave and heat on high for one minute (it’s good to keep an eye on to be sure it does not boil over. (Alternatively, you can heat the mixture in a small pot).
Remove from heat and stir in peppermint and milk. Return to microwave for 30 seconds.
Top with whipped cream and enjoy!

Notes

Serving size: 1 Peppermint Mocha (entire recipe)

WW Points: 3

Check the WW Points for this recipe and track it in the WW app.
(Must be logged into WW on a smartphone or tablet.)

2 PointsPlus (Old plan)

This healthier, lower calorie version of Starbucks Peppermint Mocha uses unsweetened cocoa powder, peppermint extract, non-calorie sweetener, cornstarch, instant coffee and low fat milk.
To keep this peppermint mocha super easy to make I use instant coffee. You can always substitute fresh brewed hot coffee of your choice or espresso if you prefer. (Strong coffee is key.)
To turn this simple recipe into a rich and delicious peppermint hot chocolate, just omit the instant coffee.
I usually use low-fat milk to keep the calories low while providing some richness. Whole milk provides a richer taste, for a few more calories, while nonfat milk can be used for a few calories less. Substitute light vanilla soy milk (or non-dairy milk such as almond milk, oat milk, cashew milk or coconut milk beverage) for a dairy-free version.
Substitute sugar free chocolate syrup for the unsweetened cocoa powder and non-calorie sweetener if you like.
I use peppermint extract to make my lighter healthier minty mochas. You could substitute peppermint flavor sugar-free syrup or peppermint flavored stevia for the peppermint extract and sweetener all in one.

Nutrition