Christmas Hazelnut Mocha: 5 Steps to Holiday Bliss Recipe
Introduction
Enjoy a cozy and festive treat with this Christmas Hazelnut Mocha. It combines rich espresso, creamy milk, and the warm flavors of hazelnut and cocoa for the perfect holiday pick-me-up.
Ingredients
- 1 cup brewed espresso
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons hazelnut syrup
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- Whipped cream for topping
- Chopped hazelnuts for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Brew the espresso and set it aside.
- Step 2: In a saucepan, gently heat the milk with cocoa powder and hazelnut syrup, stirring until fully combined and warm but not boiling.
- Step 3: Pour the espresso into a mug, then add the warm milk mixture and stir well.
- Step 4: Top the drink with a generous swirl of whipped cream.
- Step 5: Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts over the whipped cream for a delightful crunch and garnish.
Tips & Variations
- Use almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version without losing creaminess.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra holiday spice.
- Swap hazelnut syrup for caramel or vanilla for different flavor twists.
Storage
Best enjoyed fresh, but you can refrigerate any leftover milk mixture separately in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove before combining with espresso. Avoid storing the assembled drink to keep textures fresh.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this drink decaffeinated?
Absolutely! Just use decaffeinated espresso or strong brewed decaf coffee for the same rich flavor without the caffeine.
What if I don’t have hazelnut syrup?
You can substitute with other flavored syrups like vanilla or caramel, or simply add a few drops of hazelnut extract mixed with a bit of sugar.
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Christmas Hazelnut Mocha: 5 Steps to Holiday Bliss Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
This Christmas Hazelnut Mocha is a cozy and festive coffee drink that combines rich espresso, creamy milk infused with hazelnut syrup and cocoa powder, topped with whipped cream and crunchy chopped hazelnuts. Perfect for holiday mornings or an indulgent afternoon treat, this mocha delivers a harmonious blend of nutty and chocolate flavors in just 10 minutes.
Ingredients
Espresso
- 1 cup brewed espresso
Milk Mixture
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons hazelnut syrup
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
Toppings
- Whipped cream for topping
- Chopped hazelnuts for garnish
Instructions
- Brew the espresso: Prepare 1 cup of espresso using your preferred espresso machine or stovetop espresso maker, ensuring a strong and flavorful base for the mocha.
- Heat the milk mixture: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup of milk with 2 tablespoons cocoa powder and 2 tablespoons hazelnut syrup. Stir continuously until the mixture is warm and the cocoa powder is fully dissolved, being careful not to boil the milk.
- Combine espresso and milk mixture: Pour the brewed espresso into a large mug, then slowly add the warm milk mixture, stirring gently to blend the flavors evenly.
- Add whipped cream topping: Generously top the mocha with whipped cream to add a creamy, airy texture and a festive look.
- Garnish with chopped hazelnuts: Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts over the whipped cream to provide a delightful crunch and enhance the nutty flavor profile.
Notes
- Use whole milk for a richer and creamier mocha, or substitute with any milk alternative for a dairy-free version.
- Adjust the hazelnut syrup quantity to taste for a sweeter or less sweet drink.
- For an extra festive touch, add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg on top.
- If you don’t have an espresso machine, strong brewed coffee can be used as a substitute.
- Ensure to whisk the cocoa powder well into the milk to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth texture.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Christmas mocha, hazelnut mocha, holiday coffee, festive drink, espresso drink, mocha recipe, holiday beverage
