Black Magic Mocha: An Easy Halloween Coffee Drink
Pumpkin spice gets all the attention in October, but the best Halloween coffee drinks are a little darker. Our Black Magic Mocha pairs bold dark roast espresso with bittersweet chocolate and a pinch of sea salt. It's rich, a touch mysterious, and takes five minutes to make at home.
Why a dark roast works here
Our Park Drive Dark Roast is the blend roasted dark for a bold, smooth cup. Those deep roasty notes stand up to chocolate instead of disappearing under it. A lighter roast can taste thin or sour once you add cocoa and milk.
Black Magic Mocha recipe (serves 1)
• 1 double shot (about 60 ml) of Park Drive Dark Roast, or 120 ml strong moka pot coffee
• 1½ tbsp dark cocoa powder (black cocoa if you can find it, for that inky colour)
• 1 tbsp sugar or maple syrup
• 240 ml milk or oat milk
• Pinch of flaky sea salt
1. Whisk the cocoa, sugar and salt into the hot espresso until smooth. No lumps.
2. Steam or heat the milk until it's hot but not boiling (around 65°C).
3. Pour the milk over the chocolate espresso and stir.
4. Top with whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa.
Spooky garnish ideas
• Drizzle chocolate syrup around the inside rim of a clear glass so it "drips".
• Add a few drops of red food colouring to the whipped cream for a blood-moon swirl.
• Use a stencil and cocoa powder to dust a bat or a jack-o'-lantern on the foam.
• Float a toasted marshmallow "ghost" with two chocolate-chip eyes.
Making it for a Halloween party?
Swap in our Swiss Water Process Woodland Decaf so the grown-ups can enjoy a second cup without staying up past midnight. It's 99.9% caffeine free and has natural dark chocolate notes, which makes it a perfect match for a mocha. Brew a big batch in a French press, mix in the cocoa, and keep it warm in a slow cooker for guests.
Happy Halloween from East Van! Grab a bag of Dark Roast Park Drive Beans or Ground Coffee online and stir up a little magic this weekend. Want a De-Caff Option? Try the Woodland Decaf!