Low Calorie Iced Mocha Drink

Name: Low Calorie Iced Mocha Drink
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 1 serving
Ingredients: 1 cup brewed coffee (chilled); 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder; 1-2 tablespoons sugar substitute (like stevia or monk fruit); 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of your choice); Ice cubes; Optional: Whipped cream for topping

Highlighted under: Light Kitchen Magic

I absolutely love this Low Calorie Iced Mocha Drink! It has become my go-to refreshment during the warmer months. Packed with the rich flavor of coffee and a hint of chocolate, this drink satisfies my cravings without the guilt of excess calories. I appreciate that it only takes a few minutes to whip up, making it a quick and enjoyable treat. Whether I'm spending time on the patio or headed out the door, this delightful drink is the perfect way to cool down while still enjoying a bit of indulgence.

Created by

Katherine Blake

Last updated on 2026-02-28T10:29:35.619Z

When I first tried making a Low Calorie Iced Mocha Drink at home, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to replicate this café favorite. I experimented with different milk options and sweeteners until I discovered the perfect combo that still delivers on flavor without loading on calories. Using unsweetened cocoa powder and a sugar substitute allowed me to maintain that rich mocha taste I love.

One tip I found helpful is to prepare the coffee ahead of time and chill it in the fridge. This way, when I’m ready to enjoy my drink, I can mix it quickly without having to wait for the coffee to cool down. It’s a simple hack that minimizes prep time and maximizes flavor!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich coffee flavor balanced with a hint of chocolate
Guilt-free indulgence with fewer calories than traditional iced mochas
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy days

Crafting the Perfect Brew

The base of your Low Calorie Iced Mocha begins with brewing the right coffee. I recommend using a medium to dark roast for a richer flavor that stands up well against the cocoa powder. Brewing a cup of coffee and letting it chill in the fridge for at least 15 minutes ensures it's cold enough to keep the drink refreshing without watering it down too quickly. If you're in a hurry, adding ice directly to hot coffee can dilute the flavor, so opt for chilling instead.

Once brewed, consider making extra coffee to have on hand for future drinks. Chilled coffee can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. This allows you to whip up an iced mocha in just a couple of minutes on busy days. Just pour, mix, and enjoy—it’s a time-saver that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.

The Chocolate Element

Using unsweetened cocoa powder in this recipe adds depth without introducing unnecessary sugars. Cocoa also brings antioxidants that may contribute to overall health. Make sure to stir thoroughly after adding the cocoa to the coffee to ensure there are no lumps. If you prefer a richer chocolate flavor, you can experiment with different brands of cocoa powder, as their intensity can vary. Some premium brands offer a more robust flavor that enhances the mocha experience.

For those who like a bit of sweetness but want to keep it low-calorie, using a sugar substitute is key. Choose one that's suitable for baking and dissolves well in cold liquids. I’ve found that monk fruit works beautifully in this drink, as it doesn’t leave an aftertaste. If you're not worried about calories, a small amount of sugar or agave can be substituted based on preference.

Serving and Enhancements

When it comes to serving, presentation can elevate your iced mocha experience. Use a tall glass to showcase the beautiful layers of coffee and milk. Pour the mocha mixture slowly over ice to achieve a striking visual effect. Adding a straw or mixing spoon allows for an enjoyable sipping experience, encouraging you to savor each taste. Don’t forget that the optional whipped cream not only adds a touch of indulgence but also creates a contrast with the drink's bittersweet flavors.

For a delightful twist, consider infusing flavors like vanilla extract or a hint of peppermint. Just a drop of these extracts can transform the drink without overwhelming the base flavors of coffee and chocolate. If you're catering to guests, it’s fun to set up a small iced mocha bar with toppings like chocolate shavings, cinnamon, or even a dash of instant espresso for an extra kick.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Low Calorie Iced Mocha Drink:

Ingredients

1 cup brewed coffee (chilled)
1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
1-2 tablespoons sugar substitute (like stevia or monk fruit)
1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of your choice)
Ice cubes
Optional: Whipped cream for topping

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your refreshing Low Calorie Iced Mocha Drink:

Brew the Coffee

Brew your coffee using your preferred method and allow it to chill in the fridge for at least 15 minutes.

Mix Ingredients

In a glass, combine the chilled coffee, unsweetened cocoa powder, and sugar substitute. Stir well until the cocoa is fully dissolved.

Add Milk

Pour in the unsweetened almond milk and mix until everything is combined.

Serve Over Ice

Fill a glass with ice cubes and pour the mocha mixture over the ice.

Garnish (Optional)

Top with a dollop of whipped cream if desired, and enjoy your refreshing drink!

Pro Tips

For a delightful variation, try adding a splash of vanilla extract or a dash of cinnamon for extra flavor. Experiment with different kinds of milk to find your favorite combination!

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a dairy alternative, unsweetened almond milk is a fantastic choice that keeps the calorie count down while providing a creamy texture. However, oat milk or soy milk can also work well if you prefer something thicker. Just be mindful of the flavor—choose varieties that are unsweetened to maintain the drink's balance.

For those who want to add a delightful twist while keeping it low-cal, try using flavored sugar substitutes. Hazelnut or vanilla-flavored syrups can add depth and warmth to the drink without loading on the calories. Just adjust the quantity to taste, as some brands can be more potent than others.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Low Calorie Iced Mocha Drink is not only quick to prepare but also makes for a great make-ahead option. Brew a larger batch of coffee and store it in the refrigerator for a few days. You can also pre-mix the coffee and cocoa powder in a jar, allowing you to conveniently shake it up each time you want a drink.

To ensure the freshest tasting drink, it's best to add the almond milk right before serving. However, if you mix it ahead of time, consume it within 48 hours to avoid any changes in texture or flavor that can occur when milk sits too long.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your mocha is too bitter, consider adding a little extra sugar substitute or adjusting the cocoa’s quantity based on your personal preference. Everyone's sweetness threshold is different, so feel free to tweak it until it suits your taste. Also, ensure the cocoa powder is thoroughly dissolved to avoid any graininess.

For a thicker, creamier drink, blend the mocha ingredients instead of stirring. This will incorporate air into the mixture and create a frothy texture, enhancing the overall experience. If you encounter clumps even after mixing, try using a frother or a blender to achieve a smoother consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular chocolate syrup instead of cocoa powder?

Yes, but be aware that using chocolate syrup will add more calories and sugar. You may need to adjust the amount to suit your taste.

→ How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can use any plant-based milk, such as almond, oat, or coconut milk, to make this drink completely dairy-free.

→ Can I make this drink in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the coffee and mix it with cocoa and sweetener in advance, then store it in the fridge. Just add the milk and ice when you’re ready to serve.

→ What sweeteners can I use?

You can use any sugar substitute that you prefer, such as stevia, monk fruit, or erythritol. Adjust the amount to taste since sweeteners can vary in strength.