Winter Spice Mocha Whisper (Print Version)

A cozy mocha blend with chocolate, espresso, winter spices, and a whipped cream topping. Gluten free and delightful.

# List of Ingredients:

→ Mocha Base

01 - 2 cups whole milk (or dairy-free alternative)
02 - 1/2 cup strong brewed espresso (or 1/3 cup strong coffee)
03 - 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
04 - 2 tablespoons dark chocolate (gluten-free), chopped or chips
05 - 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
06 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
07 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
08 - 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
09 - 1/8 teaspoon ground allspice
10 - Pinch of ground ginger
11 - Pinch of salt

→ Topping

12 - 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut whipped cream for dairy-free)
13 - 1 teaspoon powdered sugar (optional)
14 - 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
15 - Extra ground cinnamon or shaved chocolate for garnish

# Step-by-step Instructions:

01 - In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together milk, cocoa powder, dark chocolate, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, ginger, and salt constantly until the chocolate melts and mixture steams, about 3 to 4 minutes.
02 - Stir in brewed espresso and continue heating for 1 to 2 minutes until hot but not boiling.
03 - In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
04 - Pour the spiced mocha into mugs, top generously with the whipped cream, and garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or shaved chocolate. Serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It transforms a simple coffee craving into something that feels indulgent without requiring a trip anywhere.
  • The spice balance hits that sweet spot between warming and sophisticated, making it work for quiet mornings or when friends drop by.
  • It's naturally gluten-free, which means you're not leaving anyone out of the coziness.
02 -
  • Don't skip the whisking while the milk is heating; if you let the cocoa powder sit in cold milk, it clumps and never fully incorporates, leaving grainy pockets instead of silky richness.
  • The spices matter, but they're forgiving—if you only have cinnamon and nutmeg, this still works beautifully; the cloves and allspice are enhancements, not requirements.
  • The moment you add espresso to a hot chocolate base, the mixture sometimes seizes slightly if the espresso is significantly cooler; this isn't a disaster, just whisk it and it comes right back together.
03 -
  • If you don't have fresh espresso, a concentrated cold brew works beautifully and adds its own depth that's worth exploring.
  • Make the spice mixture the night before in a small jar so you can just grab it and go—it also mellows slightly overnight, which some people prefer.

Go Back