If you have been searching for a warm, festive treat to sip on this holiday season, this chocolate orange mocha recipe might be just what you need. Chocolate and orange are a classic pairing that delights the senses with every fragrant whiff and creamy sip. Although many coffeehouses once served orange mochas (including Starbucks during their Mocha Valencia era), this bright beverage has become harder to find. Fortunately, you can easily recreate it in your own kitchen.
Below, you will learn how to prepare homemade orange syrup, brew a flavorful espresso base, and bring it all together into a delicious cup of chocolate orange joy. Get ready to fill your home with the comforting aroma of citrus and chocolate.
Ingredients
- 2 shots of espresso (use a traditional machine or a Moka Pot)
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons homemade orange syrup (see details below)
- ¾ cup of hot whole milk or half-and-half
- Whipped cream (optional)
- Orange zest and chocolate shavings for garnish
Homemade orange syrup
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup sugar
- Peel from 1 orange (avoid including the bitter white pith)
- 2 drops of orange essential oil (for extra citrus punch)
To make this syrup, simmer the water, sugar, and orange peel for about 5 minutes. After it cools slightly, stir in the orange essential oil. Store any leftover syrup in a sealed container in the fridge.
Directions
- Brew your espresso. If you don’t have an espresso machine, a Moka Pot stovetop espresso coffee maker is a budget-friendly option. Fill the bottom chamber with water, add finely ground espresso to the filter, and heat until the top chamber fills with brewed espresso.
- In your favorite mug, stir together the cocoa powder and homemade orange syrup to form a smooth base.
- Carefully add the espresso shots, mixing well to ensure the cocoa dissolves fully.
- Warm the milk or half-and-half in a small saucepan or microwave until hot but not boiling.
- Slowly pour the hot milk into the espresso mixture, stirring as you go.
- Top with whipped cream for a richer taste, and finish with a sprinkle of orange zest and chocolate shavings.
Tips & Variations
- Adjust the orange flavor. If you worry the orange might overpower the mocha, start with just 1 tablespoon of orange syrup and add more to taste.
- Try different milks. Substitute dairy milk with almond, oat, or soy milk to fit your dietary preferences.
- Go decaf. If you love the taste but want to cut down on caffeine, simply brew decaf espresso.
- Make it extra indulgent. Swap the cocoa powder for a premium dark chocolate syrup or melted chocolate chips.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~245 kcal |
| Total Fat | ~7 g |
| Saturated Fat | ~4 g |
| Trans Fat | 0 g |
| Cholesterol | ~20 mg |
| Sodium | ~55 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | ~37 g |
| Dietary Fiber | ~2 g |
| Total Sugars | ~33 g |
| Added Sugars | ~30 g |
| Protein | ~7 g |
| Caffeine | ~120–150 mg (from 2 espresso shots) |
Final Thoughts
This chocolate orange mocha recipe is a wonderful way to bring back a taste of coffeehouse nostalgia—no special menu required. With its bright citrus notes blending into velvety chocolate, this drink is sure to liven up your cozy winter mornings or holiday gatherings. Once you master the basics, feel free to make it your own by playing with different milk options or decorative garnishes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
-
Can I skip the homemade orange syrup?
You can use a store-bought version instead, but most commercial syrups contain additives. Making your own ensures a fresher, more vibrant citrus flavor. -
Do I need an espresso machine?
An espresso machine is handy, but a Moka Pot is a great alternative for strong, aromatic espresso. -
How do I prevent the orange flavor from overpowering the coffee?
Start with less orange syrup (about 1 tablespoon) and taste as you go. It’s easier to add more syrup than remove it. -
Can I use non-dairy milk?
Absolutely. Almond, oat, or soy milk can be heated and frothed similarly. Just note the flavor and frothiness may differ from dairy milk. -
How can I make a larger batch for guests?
Multiply each ingredient by the number of servings you need. Prepare the espresso and syrup in advance, then mix and warm the milk just before serving to keep everything fresh.
Chocolate Orange Mocha Recipe
1
servings5
minutes5
minutes245
kcalIngredients
2 shots of espresso (use a traditional machine or a Moka Pot)
1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tablespoons homemade orange syrup (see details below)
3/4 cup of hot whole milk or half-and-half
Whipped cream (optional)
Orange zest and chocolate shavings for garnish
- Homemade orange syrup
1 cup water
1 cup sugar
Peel from 1 orange (avoid including the bitter white pith)
2 drops of orange essential oil (for extra citrus punch)
Directions
- Brew your espresso. If you don’t have an espresso machine, a Moka Pot stovetop espresso coffee maker is a budget-friendly option. Fill the bottom chamber with water, add finely ground espresso to the filter, and heat until the top chamber fills with brewed espresso.
- In your favorite mug, stir together the cocoa powder and homemade orange syrup to form a smooth base.
- Carefully add the espresso shots, mixing well to ensure the cocoa dissolves fully.
- Warm the milk or half-and-half in a small saucepan or microwave until hot but not boiling.
- Slowly pour the hot milk into the espresso mixture, stirring as you go.
- Top with whipped cream for a richer taste, and finish with a sprinkle of orange zest and chocolate shavings.
Notes
- Adjust the orange flavor. If you worry the orange might overpower the mocha, start with just 1 tablespoon of orange syrup and add more to taste.
Try different milks. Substitute dairy milk with almond, oat, or soy milk to fit your dietary preferences.
Go decaf. If you love the taste but want to cut down on caffeine, simply brew decaf espresso.
Make it extra indulgent. Swap the cocoa powder for a premium dark chocolate syrup or melted chocolate chips.
