There’s something about a mocha during the holidays that feels instantly comforting. Maybe it’s the rich chocolate flavour, the warmth of freshly brewed coffee, or the nostalgic toppings that remind us of snowy mornings and festive gatherings. This Holiday Blend Mocha brings all of that together in one cozy cup, using Zavida Holiday Blend coffee as the base.
Whether you’re hosting friends, wrapping gifts, or simply enjoying a quiet moment for yourself, this recipe is designed to feel indulgent without being complicated. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create a café-style holiday drink right at home.
The Inspiration Behind the Holiday Blend Mocha
The Holiday Blend Mocha is inspired by classic seasonal drinks you might find at your favourite coffee shop, but with a homemade touch. Zavida Holiday Blend coffee offers a smooth, festive profile that pairs beautifully with cocoa and milk, creating a balanced drink that’s rich without being overwhelming.
This recipe is meant to be flexible. You can make it sweeter, lighter, dairy-free, or even boost it with extra protein depending on your preferences. At its core, it’s about slowing down and enjoying the small moments that make the holidays special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup Zavida Holiday Blend coffee (brewed strong)
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1–2 tbsp sugar (to taste)
- 1/4 cup milk (or milk alternative)
- Marshmallows (for topping)
- 1 candy cane (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brew the Coffee
Start by brewing one cup of Zavida Holiday Blend coffee. For the best flavour, brew it slightly stronger than usual. This helps the coffee stand up to the cocoa and milk without losing its festive character.
Step 2: Prepare the Cocoa Base
In a small saucepan, add the cocoa powder and sugar. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to create a smooth mixture. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the cocoa and sugar are fully dissolved and the mixture is warm. Avoid boiling, as this can affect the texture.
Step 3: Combine Coffee and Cocoa
Pour the hot brewed coffee into a large mug. Slowly add the warm cocoa mixture, stirring gently to combine. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed by adding a little more sugar.
Step 4: Add Toppings
Top your Holiday Blend Mocha with marshmallows for a classic, cozy finish. Place a candy cane on the rim or gently stir it into the drink to add a subtle peppermint note.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately while hot. This drink is best enjoyed fresh, wrapped in a blanket, or shared with someone you love.
Why This Recipe Works
The combination of strong coffee and cocoa creates a rich base without being too heavy. Zavida Holiday Blend coffee adds warmth and depth, while the milk smooths everything out. Marshmallows bring a nostalgic sweetness, and the candy cane offers a festive visual and optional hint of mint.
Unlike overly complicated recipes, this mocha keeps things simple while still feeling special. It’s approachable enough for everyday enjoyment but festive enough for holiday occasions.
Who Will Love This Holiday Blend Mocha?
This recipe is perfect for anyone who enjoys chocolate-forward coffee drinks, especially during the colder months. It’s ideal for:
- Coffee lovers who enjoy seasonal flavours
- People who want a café-style drink at home
- Hosts looking for an easy holiday beverage
- Anyone who prefers a cozy, comforting drink over something overly sweet
It’s also a great option for those who like to customize their drinks, as the base recipe adapts easily to different preferences.
Creative Variations and Ingredient Swaps
One of the best things about this Holiday Blend Mocha is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:
- Vegan: Use a plant-based milk such as oat, almond, or soy, and ensure your marshmallows are vegan-friendly.
- Less Sweet: Reduce the sugar to 1 tablespoon or replace it with a natural sweetener like maple syrup.
- Higher Protein: Use a high-protein milk or stir in a small amount of unflavoured protein powder once the drink has cooled slightly.
- Extra Festive: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cocoa mixture for extra holiday warmth.
No matter how you customize it, this Holiday Blend Mocha is all about creating a moment of comfort and joy during the holiday season.
