The holidays are a time for indulgence, joy, and a touch of magic. What better way to celebrate the season than with a rich, frosty treat that combines the comfort of hot cocoa with the refreshment of a frappe? Introducing Starbucks Santa’s Hot Cocoa Frappe—a holiday-inspired drink that’s perfect for cozy evenings by the fire, festive gatherings, or even as a delightful winter dessert. This recipe brings the iconic flavors of hot cocoa together with a cold, creamy twist, making it a crowd-pleaser for all ages.

Whether you’re recreating the iconic Starbucks vibe at home or looking to surprise your family with something special, this drink is an instant hit. Not only is it incredibly easy to prepare, but it also offers endless customization options to suit your tastes. Let’s dive into the story, flavors, and steps behind this festive favorite!

The Story Behind Starbucks Santa’s Hot Cocoa Frappe

The inspiration for this recipe comes from the holiday spirit itself. Starbucks has long been synonymous with festive cheer, and their seasonal menu never fails to delight. This frappe draws on the nostalgic warmth of hot cocoa but transforms it into a cold, indulgent treat with a snowy finish—perfect for those who want to break away from traditional hot drinks. Imagine a snow-covered wonderland in a glass, topped with whipped cream, candy canes, and a sprinkle of holiday magic.

This recipe is more than a drink; it’s a celebration. Whether you’re creating it to serve during a family movie night or to wow your guests at a holiday party, it’s bound to become a new tradition in your home.

How to Get Starbucks Santa’s Hot Cocoa Frappe at Starbucks

If you’re craving a festive Starbucks experience but don’t feel like making the drink at home, here’s how to order a Santa’s Hot Cocoa Frappe directly from Starbucks. While this exact drink isn’t officially on their menu, you can create a custom order using the ingredients they have available.

How to Order: Step-by-Step

Start with a Mocha Frappuccino

Begin by ordering a Mocha Frappuccino, which serves as the perfect chocolatey base for your custom drink.

Add Peppermint Flavor

Request 2 pumps of peppermint syrup (adjust for your preferred sweetness level). This adds the signature minty holiday flair.

Ask for Extra Chocolate

Include a drizzle of mocha sauce on top of the whipped cream and around the cup for extra richness.

Customize the Toppings

Request crushed peppermint candies or red and green sprinkles if available. You can also ask for a topping of mini marshmallows for added texture.

Optional Extras

If you want the drink to match the recipe more closely, you can ask for white mocha syrup instead of regular mocha for a lighter chocolate flavor.
Add an extra shot of espresso for a mocha mint frappuccino with a caffeinated boost.

What to Say to Your Barista

Here’s an example of what to ask for when ordering:
“Can I get a Mocha Frappuccino with 2 pumps of peppermint syrup, mocha drizzle on top, and crushed peppermint candies (or red and green sprinkles) for garnish? Add mini marshmallows if you have them!”

Tips for Ordering

Check Seasonal Availability: Starbucks usually stocks peppermint syrup and holiday-themed toppings during November and December, so this customization is easiest to order in the holiday season.
Be Polite: Custom orders can take extra time, so be patient and kind to your barista.

Starbucks Shortcut

If you’re lucky, some Starbucks locations offer a Peppermint Mocha Frappuccino during the holidays. Order this drink and customize it further with additional toppings like whipped cream, mocha drizzle, or marshmallows to mimic Santa’s Hot Cocoa Frappe.

By following these tips, you can enjoy a ready-made version of this festive drink while soaking in the iconic Starbucks atmosphere!

Ingredients: A Delicious Mix of Flavors

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient contributes to its festive charm. Below is everything you’ll need to make Starbucks Santa’s Hot Cocoa Frappe at home.

Main Ingredients

Whole Milk (1 cup): The creamy base for a luscious frappe. Substitute with almond, oat, or coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
Hot Cocoa Mix (3 tablespoons): The star ingredient, providing rich chocolatey goodness.
Ice Cubes (2 cups): Essential for the frappe’s thick, frosty texture.
Whipped Cream (for topping): Adds a velvety finish and makes the drink irresistibly indulgent.
Peppermint Extract (¼ teaspoon): Infuses a cool, festive flavor reminiscent of candy canes.
Chocolate Syrup (2 tablespoons): Enhances the chocolate flavor and doubles as a drizzle for decoration.

Optional Additions

Crushed Candy Canes: For a festive crunch and a pop of holiday color.
Mini Marshmallows: Classic hot cocoa vibes in every sip.
Espresso Shot (optional): Perfect for those who want a caffeinated kick.

Special Garnishes

Red and Green Sprinkles: For a playful, Christmas-themed touch.
White Chocolate Shavings: Adds elegance and a rich, creamy contrast to the cocoa flavor.
Star-Shaped Marshmallows: A whimsical garnish that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.

Instructions: How to Prepare Starbucks Santa’s Hot Cocoa Frappe

Creating this festive drink is a breeze, even for kitchen novices. Follow these simple steps to whip up a frappe that rivals any café creation.

Step 1: Preparation

Assemble Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients on the counter for easy access. Use pre-crushed candy canes and pre-chilled milk to save time.
Prepare Your Blender: Ensure your blender is clean and ready for action. For best results, use a high-powered blender to achieve the smooth, frosty texture.
Optional Prep Work: If you’re adding espresso, brew it beforehand and let it cool slightly to avoid melting the ice.

Step 2: Blending the Frappe

Combine Ingredients: In the blender, add milk, hot cocoa mix, ice cubes, peppermint extract, and chocolate syrup.
Blend: Start blending on low speed to crush the ice, then increase to high speed until the mixture is smooth and frothy. This should take about 30-45 seconds.
Taste and Adjust: Pause to taste your frappe. Add more chocolate syrup for richness or an extra splash of peppermint extract for a bolder mint flavor.

Step 3: Assembly and Serving

Serve: Pour the frappe into a tall glass or festive holiday mug.
Top It Off: Generously dollop whipped cream on top, then decorate with crushed candy canes, sprinkles, or marshmallows.
Drizzle: Finish with a swirl of chocolate syrup for a café-worthy presentation.

Customizing Your Starbucks Santa’s Hot Cocoa Frappe

The versatility of this recipe means you can tweak it to fit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:

Flavor Variations

Spicy Chocolate: Add a pinch of cinnamon and cayenne for a Mexican hot chocolate twist.
Vanilla Peppermint: Swap chocolate syrup for white chocolate sauce and add vanilla extract for a lighter, creamier version.
Mocha Mint: Incorporate a shot of espresso for a coffee-infused treat.

Dietary Adaptations

Vegan Option: Use plant-based milk (like almond or oat) and coconut whipped cream. Opt for a vegan-friendly hot cocoa mix and chocolate syrup.
Sugar-Free Version: Choose a sugar-free hot cocoa mix and syrup for a guilt-free indulgence.

Making It a Meal

Pair your frappe with a plate of holiday cookies, like gingerbread or snickerdoodles, for the ultimate festive snack. It also pairs wonderfully with savory brunch items like croissants or quiches.

Serving Tips for Christmas

Presentation Ideas

Use clear, tall glasses to showcase the frappe’s frosty layers and garnishes. Tie a red ribbon around the base of the glass for extra charm.
For a whimsical touch, serve with striped paper straws or candy cane stirrers.

Thematic Décor

Create a cozy ambiance by serving your frappe alongside festive décor. Think holiday napkins, a sparkling centerpiece, or mini Christmas ornaments on the table.

Complementary Pairings

Serve with:

Starbucks-style cake pops for a fun, festive pairing.
Eggnog or mulled wine for a varied holiday drink menu.
Savory snacks like cheese platters to balance the sweetness.

Tips for Making Starbucks Santa’s Hot Cocoa Frappe

Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh, high-quality milk and chocolate syrup ensures the richest, most authentic flavor. Avoid powdered milk substitutes, as they may dilute the creamy texture.

Adjusting Flavor

For a sweeter drink, add a teaspoon of sugar or an extra pump of chocolate syrup. If it’s too rich, dilute with a splash of milk and re-blend.

Storage Tips

While the frappe is best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers in the freezer for up to a day. Blend with a splash of milk to restore its creamy texture before serving.

Make It Ahead

You can prepare the whipped cream and crush candy canes a day in advance. Store them in airtight containers to keep them fresh and ready for assembly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve immediately to maintain the frosty texture. For parties, set up a “hot cocoa frappe bar” with toppings like marshmallows, sprinkles, and syrups for guests to customize their drinks.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of chocolate?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate or white chocolate syrups work beautifully in this recipe, offering a unique twist.

How do I make this less sweet?

Reduce the amount of chocolate syrup or use unsweetened cocoa powder for a milder flavor.

Can this be frozen for later use?

Yes! Freeze any leftovers in an airtight container. Thaw slightly and re-blend before serving.

What’s a good substitute for peppermint extract?

Try using peppermint schnapps (for adults) or crushed mint candies as an alternative.

Conclusion

Starbucks Santa’s Hot Cocoa Frappe isn’t just a drink—it’s a celebration of the season. Its delightful mix of creamy, chocolatey, and minty flavors captures the essence of holiday cheer in every sip. Whether you’re enjoying it solo by the fireplace or sharing it with loved ones, this recipe is guaranteed to bring smiles all around.

Why not make it your new holiday tradition? Share your version of the Santa’s Hot Cocoa Frappe in the comments below, and don’t forget to spread the joy by sharing this recipe with friends and family. Here’s to creating sweet, festive memories—one frappe at a time!