Homemade Dutch Bros Candy Cane Mocha Recipe

The holiday season feels more magical when a mug of peppermint-chocolate comfort is in your hands. The Dutch Bros Candy Cane Mocha brings together rich espresso, creamy chocolate, and cool peppermint in a drink that celebrates everything joyful about winter.

What is Dutch Bros Candy Cane Mocha?

The Candy Cane Mocha from Dutch Bros is a seasonal holiday coffee drink. 

Ingredients:

For one serving:

• 2 shots of espresso (or ½ cup strong brewed coffee)
• 1 cup of chocolate milk
• 2 tablespoons peppermint syrup
• 2 tablespoons of chocolate syrup.
• Whipped cream or Soft Top substitute
• Crushed candy cane pieces

Instructions:

1. Prepare the espresso: Brew two shots of espresso using your machine, Moka pot, or an AeroPress. If you don’t have espresso, use strong brewed coffee to capture the same bold flavor.
2. Steam or heat the chocolate milk: In a small saucepan or using a milk frother, heat the chocolate milk until it’s hot but not boiling. Aim for a smooth, velvety texture with a bit of froth on top.
3. Mix the flavors: In your mug, combine the espresso, chocolate syrup, and peppermint syrup. Stir well to blend the flavors evenly.
4. Add the chocolate milk: Pour the steamed chocolate milk into your mug, holding back the foam with a spoon. Then, spoon the froth over the top to give it that creamy coffeehouse finish.
5. Top it beautifully: Spoon or pour your Soft Top or whipped cream over the drink. Sprinkle crushed candy cane pieces generously across the top for a festive finish.
6. Serve immediately: Enjoy while warm, the peppermint aroma and chocolate melt together into a silky, cozy flavor that’s perfect for the season.

Tips For The Perfect Candy Cane Mocha:

• Balance the sweetness: If using sweetened chocolate milk and syrup, start with 1 tablespoon of peppermint syrup and adjust to taste.
• Try it iced: Pour espresso, milk, syrups, and ice into a shaker, mix, and top with Soft Top and crushed candy cane for a chilled version.
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute oat or almond milk and use dairy-free chocolate syrup.
• Upgrade your garnish: Add mini marshmallows, a drizzle of chocolate syrup, or a small candy cane as a stir stick for extra presentation flair.
• Batch for gatherings: Multiply the recipe and keep the base (espresso + syrups + milk) warm in a slow cooker for an easy self-serve holiday drink station.

What To Serve Dutch Bros Candy Cane Mocha With

Sweet Pairings:

• Peppermint Bark: The shared peppermint note ties the two together beautifully, and the white chocolate in the bark brightens the mocha’s deeper cocoa tones.
• Chocolate Crinkle Cookies: Their soft, brownie-like centers echo the mocha’s richness and create a perfectly balanced bite-and-sip rhythm.
• Vanilla Bean Cupcakes: The gentle vanilla flavor contrasts with the peppermint while keeping the overall profile indulgent yet harmonious.
• Gingerbread Cookies: The spice of ginger and molasses adds a festive warmth that enhances the Dutch Bros Candy Cane Mocha’s minty sweetness.

Breakfast & Brunch Ideas:

• Cinnamon Rolls: The cream cheese icing and soft dough offer a sweet and comforting complement to the mocha’s espresso base.
• Almond Croissants: Their buttery layers and nutty notes enrich the coffee’s chocolate character.
• Belgian Waffles: Topped with whipped cream and berries, they create a bright, textured pairing for the velvety drink.
• Pumpkin Bread: The subtle spice of pumpkin bread makes it a natural seasonal partner for peppermint-chocolate flavors.

Dessert Companions:

• Chocolate Mousse or Flourless Cake: The mocha’s espresso and peppermint layers elevate the depth of a rich chocolate dessert.
• Cheesecake with Chocolate Drizzle: The creamy tang of cheesecake balances the mocha’s sweetness, while the drizzle ties it all together.
• Mint Brownies: For those who love peppermint, this doubles down on the flavor in a deeply satisfying way.

Health Benefits

Energy And Focus From Espresso:

• Caffeine benefits: Moderate caffeine intake can improve focus, enhance short-term memory, and increase energy levels.
• Mood enhancement: Coffee’s natural compounds stimulate dopamine release, which may contribute to a brighter, more motivated mood, perfect for combating winter sluggishness.
• Antioxidants: Coffee is a major source of antioxidants like chlorogenic acid, which helps protect cells from oxidative stress.

Nutrients And Protein From Milk:

• Calcium and Vitamin D: Support bone health and muscle function.
• Protein content: A cup of milk typically provides around 8 grams of protein, which aids in muscle repair and sustained fullness.
• Fortified options: Many dairy-free alternatives (like oat or almond milk) are enriched with vitamins and minerals that support daily wellness.

Antioxidant Power From Cocoa:

• Flavonoids: Cocoa is rich in flavonoids, which are linked to heart health and improved circulation.
• Mood boost: Chocolate stimulates serotonin production, offering a natural lift in mood and relaxation.
• Reduced stress: Some studies suggest cocoa’s polyphenols can help lower stress levels and improve cognitive performance.

Peppermint’s Refreshing Benefits:

• Digestive support: Peppermint may help ease minor stomach discomfort and bloating.
• Breath freshening: Natural menthol leaves a cooling, clean sensation that promotes freshness.
• Uplifting aroma: The scent of peppermint can increase alertness and calm tension, creating a sense of balance and cheer.

Enjoyment And Emotional Wellness:

• Mindful comfort: Taking time to craft and enjoy a festive beverage can reduce stress and promote mindfulness.
• Seasonal joy: Peppermint-chocolate flavors often evoke nostalgia, which can enhance feelings of connection and happiness.
• Social connection: Sharing a homemade mocha with friends or family encourages community and warmth, important for emotional well-being during colder months.

Final Thoughts

The Dutch Bros Candy Cane Mocha captures everything delightful about the holidays in a single cup. The blend of espresso, chocolate, and peppermint creates a moment that feels festive, comforting, and full of cheer. 

More Recipes:

• Copycat Erewhon Goth Smoothie Recipe
• Copycat Chick-fil-A Chocolate Milkshake Recipe
• Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Whiskey Barrel-Aged Manhattan Recipe
• Homemade Montebello Long Island Iced Tea Recipe

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Dutch Bros Candy Cane Mocha

Rating: 5.0/5

( 1 voted )

Serves: 1 Prep Time: 5 Minutes Cooking Time: 0 Minute 0 Minute Nutrition facts: 290 calories 10 grams fat

Ingredients

For one serving:

• 2 shots of espresso (or ½ cup strong brewed coffee)
• 1 cup of chocolate milk
• 2 tablespoons peppermint syrup
• 2 tablespoons of chocolate syrup.
• Whipped cream or Soft Top substitute
• Crushed candy cane pieces

Instructions

1. Prepare the espresso: Brew two shots of espresso using your machine, Moka pot, or an AeroPress. If you don’t have espresso, use strong brewed coffee to capture the same bold flavor.
2. Steam or heat the chocolate milk: In a small saucepan or using a milk frother, heat the chocolate milk until it’s hot but not boiling. Aim for a smooth, velvety texture with a bit of froth on top.
3. Mix the flavors: In your mug, combine the espresso, chocolate syrup, and peppermint syrup. Stir well to blend the flavors evenly.
4. Add the chocolate milk: Pour the steamed chocolate milk into your mug, holding back the foam with a spoon. Then, spoon the froth over the top to give it that creamy coffeehouse finish.
5. Top it beautifully: Spoon or pour your Soft Top or whipped cream over the drink. Sprinkle crushed candy cane pieces generously across the top for a festive finish.
6. Serve immediately: Enjoy while warm, the peppermint aroma and chocolate melt together into a silky, cozy flavor that’s perfect for the season.