Name: Apple Pie Mocha Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 12 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¾ cup milk (whole milk or oat milk); ¼ cup strong brewed coffee or 1 shot espresso; 2 tbsp unsweetened applesauce; 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 ½ tbsp maple syrup; ¼ tsp ground cinnamon; Pinch of ground nutmeg; ⅛ tsp ground allspice; ¼ tsp vanilla extract; Whipped cream; Extra cinnamon; Chocolate drizzle

Jump to Recipe·5 from 8 reviews

There is nothing quite like cozying up with a warm, comforting drink that perfectly blends the flavors of fall. The Apple Pie Mocha is a glorious fusion of rich coffee, velvety cocoa, and the nostalgic spice notes you find in classic apple pie. This drink isn’t just a treat for your taste buds but also fills your space with a delightful aroma that invites you to relax and savor every sip. Whether you’re looking for a special morning pick-me-up or a sweet afternoon indulgence, the Apple Pie Mocha will quickly become your go-to comfort beverage.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

Crafting the perfect Apple Pie Mocha requires just a handful of simple ingredients, each carefully chosen to build layers of flavor while keeping the drink silky and smooth. These essentials come together to balance sweetness, spice, and that lovely mocha richness.

Milk (¾ cup): Whole milk or oat milk both add creamy texture and body to the drink.
Strong brewed coffee or espresso (¼ cup): Provides the bold coffee base that anchors the mocha flavors.
Unsweetened applesauce (2 tbsp): The secret ingredient delivering natural sweetness and authentic apple essence.
Unsweetened cocoa powder (1 tbsp): Adds deep chocolate notes that complement the warm spices.
Maple syrup (1 ½ tbsp): A natural sweetener that enriches the drink’s flavor without overpowering it.
Ground cinnamon (¼ tsp): This spice brings the unmistakable apple pie warmth and aroma.
Ground nutmeg (pinch): A subtle hint of nutmeg enhances the cozy, spiced profile.
Ground allspice (⅛ tsp): Adds complexity, mimicking that classic apple pie spice blend.
Vanilla extract (¼ tsp): Rounds out the flavors with a smooth, fragrant touch.
Optional toppings: Whipped cream, extra cinnamon, or chocolate drizzle for a decadent finish.

How to Make Apple Pie Mocha

Step 1: Create the Apple Cocoa Spice Paste

Begin by combining the applesauce, cocoa powder, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice in a small saucepan. Stir these together over low heat until they form a smooth, thick paste. This mixture is where the magic happens, melding the apple and spice components into a concentrated burst of flavor that will infuse your drink.

Step 2: Add Milk and Gently Heat

Next, pour in the milk and whisk continuously until the paste fully dissolves and the mixture becomes smooth. Warm it over medium heat until you see tiny bubbles around the edges—and be careful not to bring it to a boil to preserve the delicate flavors and creamy texture.

Step 3: Stir in Coffee and Vanilla

Once your milk mixture is steamy and inviting, add the brewed coffee or espresso along with the vanilla extract. Give it a good stir and heat just until hot. This step ties all the flavors together, with the coffee adding depth and the vanilla lending a soft sweetness.

Step 4: Froth and Serve Your Apple Pie Mocha

If you have a milk frother, now’s the time to whip up some frothy foam to top your drink. Pour the Apple Pie Mocha into your favorite mug, then add a dollop of whipped cream, sprinkle a little cinnamon, or drizzle some chocolate on top to elevate the experience. Serve it with a smile and enjoy every cozy sip!

How to Serve Apple Pie Mocha

Garnishes

Adding a touch of whipped cream crowned with a dusting of cinnamon or a drizzle of chocolate transforms the Apple Pie Mocha from a simple drink into a luscious treat. These garnishes not only look inviting but also add layers of creaminess and spice that perfectly complement the flavors within.

Side Dishes

The Apple Pie Mocha pairs beautifully with light baked goods like cinnamon scones, buttery shortbread cookies, or even a slice of classic apple pie to double down on the theme. These sides enhance the drink’s cozy appeal and make your break feel extra special.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve your Apple Pie Mocha in clear glass mugs to show off its rich color. You might even sprinkle some crushed graham crackers on top of your whipped cream to mimic a pie crust effect. Seasonal touches like a cinnamon stick or a thin apple slice as a stirrer can add charm and a hint of extra flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have some Apple Pie Mocha left over, storing it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 48 hours is perfectly fine. Give it a gentle stir before reheating to recombine any settled spices or cocoa.

Freezing

Because the drink contains milk, freezing is not ideal as it may affect the texture and cause separation. It’s best to enjoy the Apple Pie Mocha fresh or refrigerated rather than frozen.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the drink gently on the stovetop or in the microwave in short bursts so you don’t scorch the milk or lose the delicate spice flavors. Stir well before serving to bring back its smoothness and warmth.

FAQs

Can I use non-dairy milk for the Apple Pie Mocha?

Absolutely! Oat milk is a fantastic choice as it’s creamy and naturally slightly sweet, but almond, soy, or cashew milk can also work well depending on your preference. Just use your favorite non-dairy milk to keep the drink deliciously smooth.

How strong should the coffee be?

For this recipe, a strong brewed coffee or a single shot of espresso works best to balance the sweetness and spice. If you prefer milder coffee, you can adjust by using slightly less or substituting with decaf.

Is there a way to make this less sweet?

You can easily reduce the maple syrup amount if you prefer a less sweet drink. Start by cutting it in half and then adjust to taste. The natural sweetness from the applesauce will still provide lovely flavor without being overpowering.

Can I prepare the spice paste in advance?

Yes! The applesauce, cocoa, and spices paste can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. This makes whipping up the Apple Pie Mocha even faster when you want a quick treat.

What’s the best way to froth milk if I don’t have a frother?

If you don’t own a frother, you can vigorously whisk the warm milk mixture or shake it in a tightly sealed jar until it becomes frothy. Both methods add lovely texture that mimics barista-created foam.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Apple Pie Mocha that turns an everyday coffee break into a cozy celebration of flavors. With its inviting warmth and harmonious blend of spices, chocolate, and apple, it’s an absolute joy to make and share. Treat yourself to this delightful drink and watch how it brightens even the chilliest days.