Midwest Mocha Recipe
Espresso, steamed milk & chocolate syrup topped with whipped cream & sprinkle of cocoa.
Was this page helpful?
Help improve this recipe for others.
Send this recipe to your inbox.
We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.
Ingredients
Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Espresso & Chocolate Base
Milk
Garnish
Method
Espresso & Chocolate Base
Pull the espresso
Prepare a double shot of espresso (about 60 ml) using an espresso machine. If you don't have an espresso machine, brew a strong 60 ml concentrate using a Moka pot or strong brewed coffee and reduce water. Pour the espresso into a pre-warmed 12–16 oz serving cup.
Add chocolate syrup
Add 2 tablespoons of chocolate syrup to the hot espresso. Stir vigorously for 10–15 seconds until the syrup is fully dissolved and the mixture is homogeneous and slightly glossy.
Milk
Steam and texture milk
Pour 8 oz whole milk (or your chosen alternative milk) into a stainless-steel pitcher. If you prefer sweeter, add 1 tsp granulated sugar to the milk and swirl to combine. Purge the steam wand, then submerge it just below the surface of the milk and steam to 60–65°C (140–149°F), creating a velvety microfoam (smooth, small bubbles). Aim for about 1–1.5 cm of foam on top.
Swirl and tap
After steaming, gently tap the pitcher on the countertop and swirl to integrate foam and milk for a glossy texture. This helps create a smooth pour and consistent mouthfeel.
Combine milk with espresso-chocolate
Pour the steamed milk into the cup with the espresso-chocolate mixture. Hold back the foam with a spoon for the first part of the pour, then spoon or finish with a gentle pour to allow a thin layer of microfoam to sit on top. The final ratio should be roughly 60 ml espresso + chocolate to 8 oz milk.
Garnish
Top with whipped cream
Add about 2 tablespoons of whipped cream on top of the drink, forming a small cloud over the foam (optional for a lighter option omit whipped cream).
Finish with cocoa
Lightly dust 1 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder over the whipped cream. If using, sprinkle 1 teaspoon chocolate shavings for extra texture and visual appeal.