Chocolate Peppermint Mocktail

Prepare to elevate your holiday celebrations with this Chocolate Peppermint Mocktail recipe-- The chocolatey delight that's perfect for everyone, sans the alcohol. It's like sipping on a sweet and spicy chocolate treat in a glass, with a generous dollop of fluffy whipped cream on top for that extra indulgence. Crafted with a homemade non-alcoholic Kahlua substitute, it's the ultimate holiday beverage to satisfy your festive cravings! Alcohol+ Dairy-free option.

Y'all know I've got a thing for mocktails, especially the festive ones like the Gingerbread Eggnog Mocktail and the Ultimate Holiday Mocktail, but there's always room for a little more chocolate in life. So, this holiday season, if you're looking to dial down the alcohol without missing out on the fun, this Peppermint Chocolate Mocktail is here to save the day.

And if you're in the mood for more chocolatey goodness, why not pair it with The Best Vegan Chocolate Cake, some Big Bakery-Style Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies, or follow it with a toasty Homemade Caramel Hot Chocolate!

This peppermint chocolate mocktail is a real crowd-pleaser, loved by both the young and young at heart. The best part? It's as easy to whip up, and you can even get a head start on your party prep by making it in advance. Plus, I like to make my own Kahlua syrup substitute to keep it alcohol-free and delicious!

What is A Mocktail?

So if you're sitting here thinking, what is a mocktail? Let me explain. A mocktail is like a party in a glass, minus the hangover. It's a delicious and refreshing drink that's packed with all the flavor and complexity of a traditional cocktail but without any of the alcohol.

Whether you're a designated driver, a health-conscious human, or just someone who wants to enjoy a delicious drink without the buzz, mocktails are the perfect solution.

Are Mocktails Healthy?

Mocktails can be healthy, depending on the ingredients used-- Fresh juices, herbal teas, and natural sweeteners like honey can provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. However, mocktails made with high-calorie syrups, sodas, and artificial flavors can be less healthy. Y'all know my mocktail menu for Orchirds & Sweet Tea I like to keep it natural and healthy. Even in this chocolate mocktail recipe, you'll enjoy the natural sweetener option. 

Chocolate Peppermint Mocktail Ingredients

The ingredients to flavor these mocktails are pure holiday joy. Here's what you need to make them:

• Chocolate syrup. I recommend using high-quality chocolate syrup. Preferably dark chocolate for the boldest flavor.
• Vanilla. to balance the richness of chocolate.
• Molasses. For sweetness and caramel flavor.
• Warming spices. Use cinnamon, ground ginger, and allspice.
• Peppermint extract. Look for this in the baking aisle

Ingredients for Alcohol-Free Kahlua Substitute

The tangy flavor in these drinks comes from a homemade Kahlua substitute. And guess what? You only need two ingredients (plus water) to make it.

• Brown sugar. I use organic to make sure it's vegan
• Instant coffee. Espresso powder also works.

If you're feeling extra fancy, you can always opt for some non-alcoholic Kahlua alternatives like the ones from Lyre's spirits. They do a fantastic job capturing the essence without the alcohol kick. But hey, making your own is a breeze too—totally up to you and your mood

SHOP MY FAVORITE DRINKWARE ITEMS AND ACCESSORIES!

Here, I’ve curated a list of drinkware and mocktail essentials that I use to achieve my favorite drinking experiences, especially with this Chocolate Peppermint Mocktail recipe. Everything from my fave glassware, cocktail shakers, ice cubes trays, and more. SEE THEM HERE!

Why You'll Love This Chocolate Peppermint Mocktail

First and foremost, the flavors in this simple and easy Chocolate Peppermint Mocktail  is enough to convince anyone, however, here are a few more reasons why you'll love this recipe:

• It's very similar to the real 'feel' of a cocktail. Yes, while this mocktail doesn't have actual alcohol, I promise that it's just as complex in flavor-- with additional bold flavors from the chocolate + peppermint goodness. Of course, you can always add a nice alcohol-free cocktail option from Ritual Zero Proof.
• It's super fun to make! 
• You save money! This by far is one of my biggest reasons for making my own drinks at home (minus the last point to come). You definitely save more money purchasing the ingredients and making your own servings at home.
• It's healthier. Most of all, this is my biggest plus! I love when I am able to know what ingredients I use whenever making drinks, cooking, or baking. Making my mocktails and drinks in general at home has definitely allowed me to switch to healthier, organic ingredients which is a win, win!

Garnishes For Chocolate Peppermint Mocktails

These mocktails are already show-stoppers. Before serving, you can dress them up even more with festive toppings like:

• Whipped cream. You can use regular dairy or make vegan whipped cream with cold coconut cream.
• Candy canes or other peppermint candies
• Shaved chocolate. These add a dramatic touch. Chocolate syrup also works well!
• Grated Nutmeg or Cinnamon. Sprinkle a touch of freshly grated nutmeg or cinnamon for a warm and aromatic flavor.
• Fresh mint leaves: A few fresh mint leaves add a pop of color!

How Else to Use Alcohol-Free Kahlua Substitute Syrup?

• Desserts: Drizzle it over fruit salads, vanilla ice cream, or yogurt for a burst of flavor.
• Cheesecake Topping: Transform plain cheesecake into a gourmet delight by drizzling ginger mint syrup over each slice. The sweet and tangy syrup adds a burst of flavor to every bite.
• Smoothies: Blend it into smoothies for a hint of sweetness and coffee goodness, it would go beautifully with this Cashew Date Morning Smoothie

Chocolate Peppermint Mocktail Q + A's

More Holiday Mocktail Recipes

Once you've mastered this Chocolate Peppermint Mocktail recipe, try these other homemade sips next:

• Thanksgiving Punch Mocktail
• Sparkling Cranberry Orange Ginger Mocktail
• Gingerbread Eggnog Mocktail
• Easy Apple Cider Mocktail
• Caramel Oat Latte Mocktail
• Blueberry Ginger Lime New Year's Mocktails

MADE OUR RECIPE(S)?

If you tried this Chocolate Peppermint Mocktail recipe or any other recipe on my website, please please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how you go in the 📝 comments below. And don't forget to tag @orchidsnsweettea_ on Instagram  and hashtag it #orchidsandsweettea! I love hearing from you!

Chocolate Peppermint Mocktail

December 16, 2021 •

By Shanika

5 from 4 votes

Prepare to elevate your holiday celebrations with this Chocolate Peppermint Mocktail-- The chocolatey delight that's perfect for everyone, sans the alcohol. It's like sipping on a sweet and spicy chocolate treat in a glass, with a generous dollop of fluffy whipped cream on top for that extra indulgence. Crafted with a homemade non-alcoholic Kahlua substitute, it's the ultimate holiday beverage to satisfy your festive cravings! Alcohol+ Dairy-free option.

Prep Time: 10 minutes mins

Cook Time: 5 minutes mins

Total Time: 15 minutes mins

Serves: 2 servings

Units:

US Customary|Metric

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Ingredients

KAHLUA SUBSTITUTE:

• ¼ cup filtered water
• 2 Tbsps organic brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon instant coffee or espresso powder
• 1 (7.4 oz) can dairy-free condensed milk (You can also sub with sweetened condensed milk--about ¾ cup)

HOMEMADE SPICED CHOCOLATE SYRUP:

• 1 ½ cups Almond milk, unsweetened (You can use regular milk or your fave plant-based milk)
• ½ cup organic cocoa powder (You can also use cacao powder)
• ½ cup pure maple syrup (You can use organic cane sugar, honey, or another sweetener if desired)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon molasses
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of sea salt

MOCKTAIL [PER SERVING]:

• 1 cup homemade chocolate syrup
• 1 ounce Khalua substitute
• ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
• Crushed ice

OPTIONAL TOPPINGS:

• Whipped Cream
• Candy Canes, crushed or whole
• Shaved chocolate (You can also use additional Chocolate syrup)

Instructions

KAHLUA SUBSTITUTE SIMPLE SYRUP:

• In a saucepan over medium-high heat, add the water, espresso powder, and brown sugar, stirring until sugar and powder has dissolved completely, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and whisk in the dairy-free condensed milk until smooth and creamy. Let it cool.

TO MAKE THE HOMEMADE CHOCOLATE SYRUP:

• In a saucepan over medium-high heat, add together all ingredients (whisking them to combine) and bring to a boil, about 1-2 minutes. Once fully combined and smooth, remove from heat and let cool.

TO MAKE MOCKTAIL:

• Add all of the mocktail ingredients together in a cocktail shaker (including the ice), shaking vigorously until combined and foamy.
• Assemble the mocktails: Fill your favorite 8-ounce cocktail glass halfway with crushed ice. Add the mocktail mixture until glass(es) is filled. Top with whipped cream, candy canes (crushed or whole), and additional chocolate syrup or shaved chocolate, if desired. Repeat for all servings! NOTE:
• Sip and Enjoy!

Tips & Tricks

• KAHLUA: Kahlúa coffee liqueur is one of the main ingredients in many of the world's favorite cocktails. Therefore, to make this recipe non-alcoholic----I created a great simple syrup substitute.
• DAIRY-FREE OPTION: To make this mocktail entirely dairy-free, simply substitute the whipped cream for coconut whipped cream and ensure that any milk used in the chocolate syrup and/or chocolate is dairy-free or vegan-friendly. 
• STORAGE (CHOCOLATE SYRUP): Leftover chocolate syrup can be stored in a tightly sealed mason jar for up to two weeks. When ready to use, simply reheat sauce in the microwave for a few seconds.
• ALCOHOL VERSION: See FAQ for details!
• ALCOHOL: If you'd like to keep this recipe dairy-free, but want to spruce things up with alcohol, feel free to add 1 ounce of rum, vodka, etc.

Nutrition

Calories: 308kcal | Carbohydrates: 84g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 19mg | Potassium: 601mg | Fiber: 12g | Sugar: 65g | Vitamin A: 2IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 70mg | Iron: 5mg

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