I’ve told you before that I’m not a big fan of plain coffee unless it’s piled with sugar, syrups, and plenty of cream — basically whatever makes that cup irresistible. Peppermint mochas definitely qualify. I enjoy one or two during the holidays, but since I prefer cold drinks, I like mine iced or blended.
This might make me sound picky, but I promise I’m not.
There are a few things I do care about — shoes, chocolate, and relationships. You know, the important stuff.
Last Friday I swung through a Starbucks drive-thru for the elusive peppermint mocha. A medium. Not a venti or whatever they call it these days. I know — the smallest indulgence, but delightful nonetheless.
I don’t spend money on coffee every day or live off drive-thrus. My guilty pleasures look more like buying shoes I rarely wear.
On Saturday morning I woke craving that peppermint mocha again. Whatever they add to make it so addictive had done its job. With no coffee on hand, the solution was obvious: make a frozen shake.
I adore mint and chocolate together — it’s refreshing and feels like a little breath-freshener at the same time, so you can happily indulge.
This shake was so good I had three more glasses since Saturday, including one last night while watching the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show and feeling ridiculously full.
And yes, I didn’t bother brushing my teeth before bed because the mint was that strong. Sorry, Mr. How Sweet.
Peppermint Mocha Milkshake
Serves 1
Ingredients:
- 1 cup chocolate milk (almond, rice, or soy works too)
- 4 ice cubes
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (or ice cream if you prefer)
- 1/2 tablespoon instant coffee powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/4 teaspoon sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- Whipped cream for garnish
- 1 candy cane
Directions: Put all ingredients into a blender except the whipped cream and candy cane. Reserve the top end of the candy cane and crush the rest to sprinkle on top. Blend until smooth, pour into a glass, and finish with whipped cream and the crushed candy cane. Drop the remaining candy cane stick into the shake for extra flavor.
The best part? I get this all to myself. Mr. How Sweet refuses to eat chocolate and mint together — what planet is he from?