Creamy Mocha Milkshake Recipe for Coffee Lovers

Whip up these delicious Mocha Milkshakes in just a few minutes, with 4 simple ingredients. Smooth and creamy, with your favourite coffee and a dash of cocoa powder, a mocha milkshake is the best chocolatey coffee treat for hot days.

I can’t quite decide if mocha milkshakes are a snack, a dessert or a breakfast food, but they’re undeniably delicious any time of day.

They combine rich, creamy chocolate with a pleasant coffee kick for a perfectly balanced treat.

This recipe uses just four main ingredients (plus optional toppings) and takes only minutes to prepare.

Make one whenever a mocha craving strikes—easy, fast and utterly satisfying.

Scroll to the recipe card for the full ingredient list and a printable recipe, or read on for ingredient tips and step-by-step photos.

Ingredient Notes

• Ice Cream – Chocolate ice cream gives the most mocha flavour, but vanilla or coffee ice cream also work. Avoid varieties with chocolate chips if you prefer a smooth shake. For dairy-free or vegan shakes, use a plant-based ice cream.
• Milk – Any milk suits this recipe, dairy or non-dairy. Whole milk yields a creamier result.
• Coffee – Use instant coffee (freeze-dried works well) or 1–2 shots of espresso. Decaf is fine if you want the flavor without the caffeine. Adjust the amount to taste.
• Cocoa Powder – Choose your favourite unsweetened cocoa or cacao powder to boost the chocolate notes.
• Whipped Cream – Optional topping for a classic finish.

How to Make Mocha Milkshakes

These milkshakes are very simple to prepare, but a few tips will help you get the best texture and flavour.

Chill your glasses in the fridge before serving so the milkshake stays cold longer.

If using instant coffee, dissolve it in 2 tablespoons of hot water, then whisk in the cocoa powder until smooth and lump-free.

If using espresso, prepare your shot(s) and whisk in the cocoa until well combined. Let the mixture cool slightly before blending.

Add the coffee-cocoa mixture to the blender with the ice cream and milk, then blend until smooth and creamy.

If the shake is too thin, add another scoop of ice cream and blend again. If it’s too thick, add a splash more milk.

Extra Topping Ideas

The shakes pictured are finished with softly whipped cream and a light dusting of cocoa powder mixed with a little powdered sugar. Try these alternatives:

• Drizzle with caramel or chocolate sauce, or fold a little caramel into the shake for a caramel mocha variation.
• Sprinkle grated chocolate over the top.
• Dust with instant coffee powder instead of cocoa for a stronger coffee finish.

More Milkshake Recipes

If you like these mocha milkshakes, try other shakes such as coffee or Nutella milkshakes, or fruit-based floats for variety.