Starbucks Cafe Mocha Copycat Recipe
Updated By Nandinii Todi On February 15, 2025 9:42 pmAre you a fan of Starbucks Cafe Mocha but dislike the hassle of waiting in line? I completely understand your situation—I’ve been there before! Although I adore this beverage, standing in lines can be exhausting.
Additionally, the price often feels like a guilty splurge rather than a simple pleasure. This prompted me to start making my own Starbucks Cafe Mocha at home, an excellent decision that has enriched my coffee experience.
Friends know that I’m not one to compromise on coffee. While I generally stick to lattes, I consider mochas a special indulgence, which leaves no margin for mistakes.
To my surprise, I discovered that crafting a Starbucks Cafe Mocha at home demands just four ingredients: milk, sweeteners, coffee, and cream.
No high-end equipment is needed to achieve frothy milk, which is a common concern for beginners. To make this process easier, I’ve included alternative methods for frothing your milk.
Read on to find all my tips for nailing your Starbucks Cafe Mocha on your first attempt. Ready to dive into the recipe? Let’s get started!
What’s In The Post
Equipment Required
- Espresso Maker: For brewing espresso.
- Frother: Essential for that fluffy milk topping.
- Saucepan: Used for heating milk and achieving froth.
- Glass: For serving the drink, although any cup works.

Ingredients & Substitutions
Note: The ingredients listed here accommodate one serving. Adjust quantities as necessary for more or fewer servings.
- 150 Ml Milk: I prefer 2% milk for its rich taste, but feel free to use non-dairy alternatives as well.
- 1 Cup Brewed Espresso: Espresso is my choice for a caffeine boost, but regular or instant coffee will also suffice.
- 2 Tablespoons Mocha Sauce: For variety, you can substitute with chocolate sauce or hazelnut sauce.
- 1 Cup Whipped Cream
Preparation & Cooking Time
| Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 10 Minutes | 10 Minutes | 20 Minutes |
How To Make Starbucks Cafe Mocha At Home

Step 1
Begin by brewing espresso and milk together, then pour them into your cup.

Step 2
Next, drizzle in the mocha sauce to infuse flavor.

Step 3
Top it off with a generous amount of whipped cream.

Step 4
Complete the drink with a sprinkle of chocolate chips and savor the flavor!
Expert Tips That I Recommend
- If you want to avoid using mocha syrup, try making a homemade syrup by mixing cocoa powder, sugar, and water until it achieves a syrup-like texture. It’s easier to control and tastes better when fresh.
- It’s crucial to steam the milk as it differs from regular hot milk; using just hot milk may yield a chocolate milk flavor instead of a rich mocha.
- Pay attention while brewing espresso; over-brewing could lead to a bitter, oily mocha. Coffee should be brewed without excessive steeping.
- A food thermometer can help ensure the milk reaches the correct temperature for frothing—ideally around 140°F. Temperatures near 160°F may ruin the froth.
- Gently stir the froth to maintain its volume.
- For an enriched chocolate flavor, consider blending chocolate chips with hot milk in place of mocha sauce.
FAQs About Starbucks Cafe Mocha
How can you make Starbucks Cafe Mocha caffeine-free?
Starbucks Cafe Mocha is caffeinated, but you may opt for decaffeinated bags to attain a caffeine-free version. Alternatively, forego coffee altogether and blend hot chocolate with a Medjool date for sweetness.
Nutritional Value Per Serving
As much as I enjoy my Starbucks Cafe Mocha, I recognize that it isn’t the healthiest choice. With a high calorie count, moderation is key.
The nutritional breakdown is as follows:
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 29 g |
| Protein | 7 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 11 g |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1 g |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 5 g |
| Cholesterol | 64 mg |
| Sodium | 66 mg |
| Potassium | 320 mg |
| Sugar | 26 g |
| Vitamin A | 662 IU |
| Calcium | 251 mg |
| Iron | 0.03 mg |
This drink is suitable for those following soy-free, nut-free, keto, and gluten-free diets. It is also ideal for vegetarians, though vegan and dairy-free diets might need a few adjustments to the ingredient list.

Recipe Variations For Different Diets
- Vegan Diet: For a vegan version, I opt for unsweetened soy milk.
- Keto Diet: Using almond milk, which is low in carbohydrates, allows for a keto-friendly Starbucks Cafe Mocha. Follow the original steps but replace mocha syrup with sugar-free alternatives.
Storing & Reheating This Recipe
Storing
- Countertop: I recommend consuming my Starbucks Cafe Mocha within an hour for the best taste. Freshness is key to maintaining its delightful flavor.
- Refrigeration: Leftover Starbucks Cafe Mocha can be kept in the fridge. Just transfer it to an airtight container, where it can last for up to two days.
- Freezing: It’s best not to freeze your drink, as it will compromise the texture and taste.
Reheating
- Stovetop: I prefer reheating my refrigerated Starbucks Cafe Mocha gently on the stovetop at medium heat. Stir well to evenly distribute the heat before serving warm.
- Microwave: Alternatively, pour your Starbucks Cafe Mocha into a microwave-safe cup and heat it for 10 seconds at medium power. After warming, add whipped cream before enjoying.
What To Serve With This Recipe
For a perfect pairing, I enjoy chocolate-based desserts like brownies or chocolate pudding with my Starbucks Cafe Mocha. Tarts and apple pie are also delightful options.
If that’s too sweet for your taste, simple toast with scrambled eggs makes for a fantastic morning kickstart. Other great servings include bagels, donuts, croissants, or biscotti.
To elevate your drink, consider adding toppings like marshmallows, chocolate chips, cocoa powder, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Printable Version
Starbucks Cafe Mocha Recipe
Serving:
Calories:
350 kcal
Total time:
20 minutes This Starbucks Cafe Mocha is very easy to make. It is the perfect combination of chocolate and mocha. You need five ingredients to make this drink. It is moderately sweet and simply amazing. Combine all the elements together, and you’re set!
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Prevent your screen from going dark
- Espresso Maker
- Frother
- Saucepan
- Glass
- Begin by brewing the espresso and milk in your espresso maker, then pour them into a serving cup.
- Next, add mocha sauce into the cup for added flavor.
- Next, add a generous serving of whipped cream on top.
- Finish it off by sprinkling chocolate chips on top, and enjoy!




































