A Change of Heart...Yes to Mochas & Lattes!

Mimi's White Chocolate Mocha

In years past, I'd only hold a cup of coffee to keep my hands warm in winter...never, ever think of drinking it! I've long loved the aroma, just not the bitter taste.

However, I had a sudden change of heart when I discovered a whole array of specialty coffees waiting for me at Panera or Starbucks, all fantastic. As my friends and family know, I tend to have a habit of trying to figure out a recipe and making it myself. I've made several different mochas and lattes, but this one is my new favorite, and sure to become a winter tradition!

There's something to be said of "paying for atmosphere" and I do so enjoy going in Panera on an early morning, or being at Barnes & Noble with a Starbucks in my hand. It's just that I kept thinking there must be a way to save money, with this newly acquired habit, so I found a fun espresso maker that was just my size!

My faithful taste testers, of this recipe and my various cooking adventures, have deemed it delicious! I hope you will agree!

So, as you start your winter morning with quiet time, and perhaps the morning paper, try making your own mocha without leaving your warm and cozy spot! This would be a nice Valentine's Day treat for someone special!

Mimi's White Chocolate Mocha

2/3 cup whole milk

1/3 cup Ghirardelli White Chocolate Chips

Freshly brewed espresso*

Splash of Penzy's vanilla

Whipped cream

In a microwavable bowl, combine the milk and white chocolate chips. Microwave for 90 seconds, then stir. Continue to microwave, in 30 second increments, stirring until the white chocolate chips are completely melted.

Pour the milk mixture into a tall coffee mug. Fill with freshly brewed espresso. Add a splash of vanilla, and top with whipped cream.

I also like mine a bit sweeter, and decided I needed to change my Splenda habit. I've recently switched to Truvia, and it seems to take less to sweeten my mochas and lattes!

*If you don't have an espresso maker, don't fret. I suggest you make some very strong coffee instead. It really doesn't take much for this recipe.

Have you ever tried those powdered coffee flavorings? I adore the hazelnut and chocolate almond. I order them from Coffee AM on-line, as I haven't found them locally.

On a side note, I'm not known for making skinny versions of drinks, or food, for that matter. I suppose you could try using that blue/skim milk, 1% or even 2%, but then you'd probably omit the white chocolate chips, and definitey the whipped cream! Then, we'd be right back to that cup of coffee I only wanted to hold...and never drink! Yikes!