Salted Caramel Mocha Recipe From Scratch Easy and Perfect for Coffee Lovers
A rich and comforting salted caramel mocha made from scratch, balancing salty, sweet, and rich coffee flavors. Perfect for cozy moments and easy to prepare in about 15 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream, warmed
- 1 teaspoon sea salt, plus extra for garnish
- 1 cup (240ml) freshly brewed espresso or strong coffee
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, steamed or heated (can substitute almond or oat milk for dairy-free)
- 1 tablespoon (7g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional toppings: whipped cream, extra sea salt, chocolate shavings or cocoa powder
Instructions
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, add 1 cup (200g) of granulated sugar. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon or heatproof spatula as the sugar melts and turns a deep amber color, about 8-10 minutes. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Remove the pan from heat and carefully stir in 6 tablespoons (85g) of unsalted butter. The mixture will bubble vigorously. Stir until butter is completely melted and combined.
- Slowly pour in ½ cup (120ml) of warmed heavy cream while stirring. The caramel will bubble again. Stir until smooth. Add 1 teaspoon of sea salt and mix well. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Brew 1 cup (240ml) of fresh espresso or strong coffee and pour into your favorite large mug.
- In a small saucepan, heat 1 cup (240ml) of whole milk over medium heat until steaming but not boiling. Whisk in 1 tablespoon (7g) of unsweetened cocoa powder and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract until fully dissolved and frothy. Use a milk frother if available.
- Stir 2-3 tablespoons of homemade salted caramel into the coffee until well mixed. Slowly pour the chocolate milk into the coffee, stirring gently to combine.
- Top with whipped cream if desired, a light sprinkle of sea salt, and a dusting of cocoa powder or chocolate shavings. Serve immediately.
Notes
Use a heavy-bottomed pan to prevent burning the sugar. Warm butter and cream before adding to caramel to avoid seizing. Adjust salt to taste. If caramel hardens, warm gently before use. For dairy-free version, substitute butter and cream with coconut oil and coconut cream, and milk with almond or oat milk.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 large mug
- Calories: 275
- Sugar: 27
- Sodium: 210
- Fat: 13.5
- Saturated Fat: 8
- Carbohydrates: 28
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 7
Keywords: salted caramel mocha, homemade mocha, caramel coffee, coffee recipe, mocha recipe, salted caramel, easy mocha, coffee lovers