Craving something sweet and caffeinated that you can sip on ice? A Starbucks Iced Caffè Mocha might be the perfect solution. This chocolaty drink combines freshly brewed espresso, smooth milk, and a swirl of mocha flavor, all poured over ice. Let’s be honest, it’s hard to resist when you’re looking for a quick pick-me-up.
In this guide, you’ll learn the basics of what makes this beloved coffeehouse favorite so special, plus how you can easily recreate it in your own kitchen. No barista skills required.
What is a Starbucks Iced Caffè Mocha
A Starbucks Iced Caffè Mocha is a delightful blend of espresso, cocoa sauce, and chilled milk served over ice. Its signature layer of whipped cream on top adds a creamy finish, making each sip feel extra indulgent.
At its core, this drink is a balance of robust coffee flavor and sweet chocolate undertones. By tweaking the type of milk or the amount of syrup, you can customize this beverage to suit your taste—whether you prefer it sweeter or with a stronger coffee kick.
How to Make a Starbucks Iced Caffè Mocha
Ingredients
- 1 shot of espresso (or ¼ cup strong brewed coffee)
- 1 tablespoon mocha sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- ¾ cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 cup ice cubes
- Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
- Chocolate drizzle (optional, for topping)
Directions
- Brew your espresso or strong coffee. Let it cool for a minute so it doesn’t immediately melt the ice.
- In a tall glass, add mocha sauce. Then carefully pour in the espresso, stirring gently to combine the coffee and chocolate.
- Fill the rest of the glass with ice. Pour the milk over the ice until your glass is almost full.
- Top with whipped cream if you like, plus a quick swirl of chocolate drizzle for that signature coffeehouse feel.
- Give it a quick stir (or sip as-is) and enjoy.
Nutrition Facts
Below is an approximate breakdown for a 16-ounce serving. Actual values can vary depending on the type of milk, amount of chocolate sauce, and whether you add whipped cream or other toppings.
| Nutrient | Approx. Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~350 |
| Carbs | ~40 g |
| Protein | ~10 g |
| Fat | ~15 g |
If you’re watching your sugar or fat intake, try using sugar-free syrups or opting for light whipped cream. You can also experiment with nonfat milk or unsweetened plant-based options to reduce the calorie count.
Final Thoughts about Starbucks Iced Caffè Mocha
When you’re craving a cool, chocolatey pick-me-up, a Starbucks Iced Caffè Mocha checks all the boxes. It’s easy to personalize with different milk alternatives, sugar-free chocolate syrups, or a little extra espresso if you want more buzz.
Brewing one up at home also saves a trip to the coffee shop—and it’s surprisingly fun to play barista. Whether you sip it in the morning or treat yourself later in the day, this frosty mocha offers a delicious way to cool off and satisfy your coffee craving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
-
Can I use decaf espresso?
Absolutely. Simply swap regular espresso for decaf to cut back on caffeine while still enjoying the mocha flavor. -
What if I don’t have an espresso machine?
Strong brewed coffee is a great alternative. Just make it slightly bolder than usual so it holds up against the chocolate and milk. -
How do I store leftovers?
It’s best to drink your iced mocha right away. If you must store it, keep it refrigerated without ice and enjoy within a few hours to retain freshness.
Starbucks Iced Caffè Mocha Recipe
1
servings5
minutes5
minutes350
kcalIngredients
1 oz shot of espresso (or ¼ cup strong brewed coffee)
1 tablespoon mocha sauce (store-bought or homemade)
3/4 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
1 cup ice cubes
Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
Chocolate drizzle (optional, for topping)
Directions
- Brew your espresso or strong coffee. Let it cool for a minute so it doesn’t immediately melt the ice.
- In a tall glass, add mocha sauce. Then carefully pour in the espresso, stirring gently to combine the coffee and chocolate.
- Fill the rest of the glass with ice. Pour the milk over the ice until your glass is almost full.
- Top with whipped cream if you like, plus a quick swirl of chocolate drizzle for that signature coffeehouse feel.
- Give it a quick stir (or sip as-is) and enjoy.
3 thoughts on “Starbucks Iced Caffè Mocha Recipe”
I love how easy this recipe is to follow—it demystifies making a coffeehouse favorite right in your own kitchen! With just a few simple ingredients, it delivers that signature Starbucks flavor without the cost or the trip. The flexibility to use plant-based milk or sugar-free syrup makes it even more appealing for different lifestyles.
This recipe nails the classic mocha flavor—rich espresso balanced perfectly with sweet mocha sauce. It’s indulgent without being overwhelming, and that optional whipped cream topping adds a delightful creamy finish. Each sip feels like a little reward in your day!
One of the best parts about this recipe is how customizable it is. Whether you want to cut calories by using almond milk or pump up the caffeine with a second shot of espresso, it adapts beautifully. It’s a great base recipe for anyone wanting to experiment with their iced coffee creations.