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Toasted Marshmallow Mocha - Cozy, Chocolatey, and Perfectly Toasty

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 2 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 2 shots espresso (about 2 ounces), or 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee
  • 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy like oat, almond, or soy)
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder or 1 ounce chopped dark chocolate
  • 1–2 tablespoons sugar (or maple syrup, honey, or simple syrup), to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt (enhances the chocolate flavor)
  • Marshmallows (mini or regular; vegan marshmallows work too)
  • Whipped cream (optional, but highly recommended)
  • Garnishes (optional): chocolate shavings, cocoa dusting, crushed graham crackers, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce

Method
 

  1. Brew your espresso or coffee: Pull 2 shots of espresso or brew strong coffee. Keep it hot. If you prefer a stronger mocha, go with espresso.
  2. Warm the milk: In a small saucepan over medium heat, warm the milk until steaming but not boiling. You should see wisps of steam and tiny bubbles around the edges.
  3. Make the chocolate base: Whisk in cocoa powder (or stir in chopped chocolate) with the sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Keep whisking until smooth and fully blended. Taste and adjust sweetness.
  4. Froth the milk (optional but nice): Use a handheld frother, French press plunger, or vigorous whisking to aerate the hot milk mixture for 15–30 seconds. This gives the mocha a café-style texture.
  5. Combine with espresso: Pour the espresso into your mug, then add the chocolate milk mixture. Stir gently to combine.
  6. Add whipped cream: Top with a generous swirl of whipped cream. It helps hold the marshmallows in place and adds a creamy finish.
  7. Toast the marshmallows: Place mini marshmallows on top. Use a kitchen torch to lightly toast them until golden and just melty. No torch? Carefully broil marshmallows on a foil-lined sheet for 30–60 seconds, then transfer to the drink with a spoon.
  8. Finish with a flourish: Add chocolate shavings, a pinch of crushed graham crackers, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. Serve immediately while warm and gooey.