A mocha is a coffee beverage typically consisting of espresso, chocolate (either powder or syrup), and milk or cream. It's essentially a chocolate-flavored latte.
Here's a breakdown of what typically goes into a mocha:
- Espresso: The coffee base. Usually a single or double shot.
- Chocolate: Added as either chocolate powder, chocolate syrup, or even melted chocolate. This provides the signature mocha flavor. The type and amount of chocolate heavily influence the drink's overall sweetness.
- Milk or Cream: Steamed milk is most common, similar to a latte, providing a creamy texture and diluting the strong flavors of the espresso and chocolate. Sometimes whipped cream is added on top as a garnish.
Think of it like this:
| Ingredient | Proportion (approximate) |
|---|---|
| Espresso | 1/3 |
| Steamed Milk | 2/3 |
| Chocolate | To taste, varies |
| Whipped Cream | Optional garnish |
Key Characteristics:
- Sweet: Due to the added chocolate.
- Coffee Flavor: Still present from the espresso, but less prominent than in a straight espresso drink.
- Creamy: From the steamed milk.
While recipes can vary, the core combination of espresso, chocolate, and milk remains the defining characteristic of a mocha.
