Once you see how easy it is to make a rich and creamy Starbucks Mocha Frappuccino at home you’ll never miss the fat and calories you’re saving.
Coffee and chocolate are a flavor match made in heaven which is why it is no surprise that the Starbucks Mocha Frappuccino is so popular. Cool, creamy, rich and chocolately – what’s not to love?
Confession: I’ve never actually ordered a Frappuccino at Starbucks before. While there are many unhealthy foods I can’t resist, Frappuccinos fall into my “off limits” category which means I never order them.
The same can be said for a McDonald’s Big Mac, General Tso’s Chicken at a mall food court or a donuts from Dunkin’ Donuts.
It all goes back to my 80’s childhood during the fat-free craze followed by my overweight adolescence in the 90’s/00’s. I didn’t grow up eating these heavy foods so to eat them now would pretty much be a guaranteed stomach ache.
Psychologically, consuming them would immediately bring me to a dark place so for these reasons, I avoid them.
The fact is, I’ve worked too hard to achieve weight loss success and I’ve also learned a lot about making smarter food choices over the years. By using ingredients I can pronounce such as cocoa powder, half and half, and strong coffee plus a few drops of my favorite chocolate stevia, I end up with a frothy, decadent frozen drink that is sheer perfection.
Frequently asked questions:
If you don’t have liquid stevia, honey or pure maple syrup work just as well.
Yes, they last up to 1 month in the freezer. Put into individual freezer-safe cups with lids before freezing for convenience.
Substitute chocolate stevia for regular, and omit the cocoa powder and you have a vanilla frap. Add crushed peppermints for a peppermint mocha, swap for white chocolate, or toasted coconut shavings.
Your straw is waiting.
Healthy Starbucks Mocha Frappuccino
Ingredients
- 2 cups strong brewed coffee chilled
- ¼ cup half and half or almond milk
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 14 drops chocolate stevia or sweetener of choice (ie honey,maple syrup, etc.)
- 1 pinch sea salt
- ice
- whipped cream and dark chocolate shavings optional garnish
Instructions
- Combine coffee, half and half, cocoa powder, vanilla, stevia and salt in a blender. Puree until smooth about 30-60 seconds.
- Add a scoop or two of ice and puree for additional 45-60 seconds on high.
- Pour into a glass and garnish with whipped cream and dark chocolate shavings.
Chef’s Notes
Nutrition
Want more delicious drink recipes? Check out my Pinterest board!
Elizabeth
This was delicious! I’ve been making an iced mocha version for a while, but I loved this blended version (the vanilla was a superb addition). I used whole milk instead of half and half and 1/2 tbsp of sugar. I think the key is using good cocoa powder – I use extra dark cocoa powder from Amazon. My only problem was that the drink kept separating (the drink and the ice) – any tips on having that not happen? Thanks for the recipe!
Liz DellaCroce
Oh I’m so glad you loved it!! The vanilla really is a great complement to the cocoa and I agree with you on high quality cocoa. If you’re looking for the drink to keep from separating, one tip is to add a pinch of xanthan gum. It’s a bit pricey so I rarely have it on hand but if you’re looking for the drink to keep from separating I’ve read it works well! I’ve also heard of people using powdered pectin – the stuff used when making jams or jellies. I hope that’s helpful!
Carolyn M
Glad you made this over as I had a number of the ones at Starbucks and they are to die for! Literally…. too many of those in life and I would die from a fat attack!
Liz DellaCroce
I hope you enjoy my version!
marlene
Have you tried this with fat-free half-and-half, Liz? That would make it even healthier–but would the texture and taste be the same?
Marlene
Thanks for the prompt reply, Liz, and education! I will read my labels carefully before buying fat-free in the future! And 1/4 cup of half and half, for 2 servings, is not much fat. Besides, we all need a little fat in our diets.
Alyssa (Everyday Maven)
Love this Liz!!! I am with you on having certain “off limits” foods. It’s shocking how many (empty!) calories the Starbucks version has!
Liz DellaCroce
I know…it’s a little scary, especially how much we pay for it!
Bonnie Esterow
thanks ! This sounds yummy!!
I have to confess that I go to Starbucks regularly. Im actually sitting in one right now !! My fav is Grande light coffee frappuccino w sugar free hazelnut (or vanilla or caramel syrup. Its under 200 cals and artificial sweetener be damned. lol! I love this, tastes great & lets me think im having a high calorie ice cream treat !!!
It does get a bit pricey so will have to make your version for a lot less money !!!
Liz DellaCroce
Trust me – I totally get it Bonnie!! Enjoy!
DessertForTwo
I remember the fat-free food my parents ate in the 80s. Remember Snackwells? Disgusting!
This drink, on the other hand, looks fantastic! Thanks :)
Liz DellaCroce
YES! I always joke about Snackwells!!!! So creepy. :) Thank you!
Carolyn
YUMMY! This is so similar to how I make my iced coffee in the summer. I do recommend using full cream, it makes it taste like ice cream! I suppose that adds calories but it’s low carb and sugar-free still! :)
Amy Murnan
One word – THANK YOU.
I could spend a fortune on these things.
Liz DellaCroce
You’re welcome!!! :)
Angela Pelc
Oh YUM! I have everything to make this, including a chocolate honey. Liz, you never cease to amaze me with your better versions of decadent recipes!
Liz DellaCroce
Wow chocolate honey sounds PERFECT Angela!! Enjoy!!
Cookin Canuck
My go-to summer coffee drink is an iced nonfat latte, but this healthy frap would be fantastic for a change-up.
Liz DellaCroce
Oooo I love a good iced latte!!! I also love the passion fruit iced tea unsweetened…ok you have me craving Starbucks! :)
Kathy
Do you happen to know the calorie / sugar / carb count in a Venti low fat, sugar free mocha frappacino from Starbucks? I just put another $25 on my Starbucks app and drink at least one if these a day. Dying to try your recipe.
Liz DellaCroce
Hi Kathy – I’m afraid I don’t but I bet you could out at Starbucks.com!
Angie | Big Bear's Wife
mm mm mm When I was in college I drank Starbucks every single day and then I got a job there and probably drank it 2-3 times a day. I will admit that I LOVE Starbucks, but making them at home (and ones that are better for me) would be 100% better!
Liz DellaCroce
I always secretly wanted to work at Starbucks – that’s so cool!!!
Kelli @ The Corner Kitchen
I absolutely love this, Liz! Such a great guilt-free treat. In high school and college I had no problem throwing back fraps on a regular basis. I probably haven’t had one in 10 years….it just feels like a lot of empty calories that I can’t justify. If I’m gonna splurge, pass me an ice cream cone :)
Liz DellaCroce
“Throwing back fraps” – I LOVE THAT PHRASE!! I work remotely from my Starbucks a lot and I always see skinny kids sucking them back like candy. Oh to be young. :)
Allyson
How are you SO BRILLIANT? :-) this is a great idea. You rock, Liz!
Liz DellaCroce
LOL!! I love you and miss you!! xoxo
Tieghan
Whoa! amazing!
Liz DellaCroce
Thanks sista!
[email protected]
Come to mama!!
Liz DellaCroce
Sending one your way!
Maegan @ The BakerMama
You made my morning! I love Mocha Frappuccinos in the summer, but they are way too expensive and unhealthy to drink everyday. I can’t wait to try your healthy homemade version!
Liz DellaCroce
I know – they are so pricey and I love the idea of being able to make them at home!
Julia
I love this lighter version!! I honestly never get these fancy drinks because of the calories. I must try this!!
Erin | The Law Student's WIfe
Liz, I love this. Every time I walk into a starbucks (which is rare, but still) I stand there at look longingly at the Frap board, then remind myself I’d rather have a milkshake…and that $6 the frap would set me back. So excited to see this recipe–my wallet (and my waistline) thank you!
taylor @ taylormade
this is awesome! I occasionally order the “light” mocha frap from starbucks, but I love the idea of making your own and knowing exactly what goes into it. so many calories, fat grams, and sugar grams saved — not to mention $$! Mmm can’t wait to try :)
Liz DellaCroce
I know – the light drinks are tempting but often that means they are made with even more chemicals/artificial sweeteners. I hope you enjoy this version!!
Aggie
Funny, I don’t go for donuts either – not worth the calories in my opinion! I don’t order the fancy drinks at Starbucks anymore for the same reason (I used to be a sucker for pumpkin spice latte & I always have a dilemma with the artificial sugar free options). The calories in those drinks are a killer!! I can’t wait to try this, I’ve been wondering about those flavored stevia drops, I saw them at my health food store, will pick up chocolate next time! :)
Liz DellaCroce
I feel the same way!! I remember in college I would get caramel macchiatos all the time. Now that I’ve lost the weight I just can’t go there mentally. The stevia drops are a life saver!! You can buy them all on amazon (link in the recipe) if you don’t have a store near you that sells them. That’s usually what I do since I hate shopping with the little one – hahah.