Iced Mexican Coffee Mocha: The Spicy Chocolate Coffee Drink You Need

If you love a refreshing, sweet-and-spicy twist on your regular iced coffee, then you need to try an Iced Mexican Coffee Mocha. This drink isn’t just for coffee enthusiasts—its unique blend of bold coffee, rich chocolate, and the warm kick of cinnamon and cayenne pepper will leave your taste buds craving more. It’s the perfect combination of sweet and spicy, ideal for any time of year, whether you’re cooling down on a hot day or warming up with something special in the colder months.

An Iced Mexican Coffee Mocha offers the delicious richness of a mocha with the exciting and unexpected heat of Mexican spices, making it a standout drink that takes your usual iced coffee experience to the next level. Let’s dive into what makes this drink so unique and how you can make it at home.

What is an Iced Mexican Coffee Mocha?

An Iced Mexican Coffee Mocha is a deliciously bold coffee drink that blends the familiar creaminess of a mocha with the intriguing and aromatic spices often found in Mexican hot chocolate. The base is made from strong coffee or espresso, but it gets its rich flavor from the addition of cocoa powder, a touch of cinnamon, and a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder. It’s sweetened to perfection, and when served over ice, it becomes a refreshing yet spicy indulgence.

Inspired by Mexican chocolate, which is often flavored with spices like cinnamon, vanilla, and chili, this iced version brings that same rich flavor profile but in a chilled, summery format. The combination of chocolate and spice in every sip creates a layered taste that’s both comforting and invigorating. If you’re someone who enjoys experimenting with flavors, this drink is an absolute must-try.

Ingredients & Equipment You’ll Need

Creating your own Iced Mexican Coffee Mocha at home is easy, and it doesn’t require a lot of fancy equipment. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of strong brewed coffee or espresso (freshly brewed or cold brew concentrate)
• 1-2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (or 1 ounce of Mexican chocolate for a more authentic flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1-2 tablespoons sugar (or to taste, you can also use maple syrup or honey for a different flavor)
• 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based like almond, oat, or coconut milk)
• Ice cubes
• Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
• A cinnamon stick (optional, for garnish)

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Equipment:

• Coffee maker, French press, or espresso machine
• A mixing spoon or whisk
• A tall glass
• Ice cube tray (optional, for making coffee ice cubes to prevent dilution)

Once you have everything ready, you’re all set to brew, mix, and serve up this deliciously spiced iced coffee drink.

Step-by-Step: How to Make It

Making an Iced Mexican Coffee Mocha is as simple as following a few easy steps. The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity while still offering complex flavors.

Step 1: Brew the Coffee

Start by brewing a strong cup of coffee. If you’re using an espresso machine, brew 1-2 shots of espresso. Alternatively, cold brew concentrate works perfectly for a smoother, less acidic base.

Step 2: Mix the Cocoa and Spices

While the coffee is brewing, grab a small bowl or cup and mix together the cocoa powder, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Add your sugar (or preferred sweetener) to the spice mix. Stir well to combine.

Step 3: Combine Coffee and Spice Mix

Pour the freshly brewed coffee into a glass or mixing jar. Add the spice and cocoa mixture to the coffee, stirring until it’s fully dissolved and the flavors are evenly combined.

Step 4: Add Ice and Milk

Fill a tall glass with ice cubes (coffee ice cubes work wonders here). Pour the spiced coffee mixture over the ice, then top it off with milk (dairy or plant-based). Stir it gently to blend the coffee and milk together.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top with a generous amount of whipped cream if you like a bit of extra indulgence. For an authentic touch, add a cinnamon stick as a garnish. You can also sprinkle a little extra cinnamon or cocoa powder on top for added flavor.

And just like that, you’ve created your own Iced Mexican Coffee Mocha to enjoy at home.

Variations & Customisations

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it can be customized to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Here are a few variations to try:

• Extra Spice: If you love your coffee with a real kick, feel free to increase the amount of cayenne pepper or even try adding a pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg for an extra layer of spice.
• Sweetness Level: The sweetness of your Iced Mexican Coffee Mocha is completely up to you. Use honey, maple syrup, or your favorite sugar substitute for a healthier option.
• Vegan Version: Simply swap out regular milk for a plant-based alternative like almond, oat, or coconut milk, and ensure the whipped cream is dairy-free.
• White Chocolate: For a different twist, use white chocolate instead of regular cocoa powder for a creamier, sweeter flavor.
• Cold Brew Coffee: For a smoother, less acidic base, swap regular brewed coffee with cold brew concentrate.

Feel free to experiment with different flavor combinations and find your perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and chocolate.

Dietary Variations & Substitutions

Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or watching your calorie intake, the Iced Mexican Coffee Mocha can easily be adapted to fit different dietary needs.

• Vegan: Use plant-based milk like almond, oat, or soy milk. Be sure to check that your chocolate is dairy-free, and opt for vegan whipped cream if desired.
• Gluten-Free: This drink is naturally gluten-free as long as you use certified gluten-free chocolate and spices.
• Low-Calorie: For a lower-calorie option, use skim or almond milk and opt for a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit.
• Halal/Kosher: Ensure your chocolate and milk are certified Halal or Kosher. Also, check that your sweetener is suitable.
• Low-Lactose: Use lactose-free milk or any plant-based milk that suits your preference.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

If you’re making a large batch or preparing in advance, you can store your Iced Mexican Coffee Mocha mix in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s best to store the coffee concentrate separately from the milk, as milk tends to curdle if left in coffee for too long.

For a party or busy mornings, consider making coffee ice cubes by freezing brewed coffee in an ice cube tray. These can be added to your drink to keep it cold without watering it down. You can also prep the chocolate and spice mix ahead of time and store it in an airtight container.

Wrap-Up

There you have it: a rich and spicy Iced Mexican Coffee Mocha that’s perfect for cooling down or enjoying any time you need a pick-me-up. With its bold flavors and customizable ingredients, this drink is bound to become a staple in your coffee routine. Whether you like it extra spicy, sweeter, or more indulgent, you’ll find a version that suits your taste. So grab your ingredients, fire up your coffee machine, and sip away on this one-of-a-kind coffee drink!

FAQ

Can I use regular brewed coffee instead of espresso for an Iced Mexican Coffee Mocha?

Yes, you can definitely use regular brewed coffee in place of espresso. While espresso gives a stronger flavor, regular brewed coffee works just as well, especially if you prefer a lighter taste. To make sure it’s strong enough, consider using a dark roast or adding a little more coffee grounds when brewing.

How can I make an Iced Mexican Coffee Mocha less spicy?

If you find the cayenne or chili too intense, you can easily adjust the heat level. Start by using less cayenne or omit it entirely. If you still want a little spice but not as much, you could try a pinch of cinnamon instead for a milder warmth without the heat.

What kind of chocolate should I use for an Iced Mexican Coffee Mocha?

For an authentic flavor, use Mexican chocolate or unsweetened cocoa powder. Mexican chocolate often has a hint of cinnamon and vanilla, which enhances the drink’s flavor. However, regular cocoa powder works fine as well, especially if you add a touch of cinnamon to mimic the authentic taste.

Can I prepare this drink ahead of time for a party or gathering?

Absolutely! You can prepare the coffee concentrate and spice mix ahead of time, and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, just mix with milk, ice, and your desired toppings. This makes it a great option for entertaining or busy mornings.

How do I prevent my Iced Mexican Coffee Mocha from getting watered down?

To keep your drink from getting watered down as the ice melts, use coffee ice cubes instead of regular ice. Simply freeze brewed coffee in an ice cube tray, and use those cubes to chill your mocha without compromising the flavor.

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