‘Tis the season for coffee celebrations, and December 3 is dedicated to one of the most iconic holiday latte flavors: peppermint. National Peppermint Latte Day honors the beloved blend of bold espresso, smooth milk and refreshing peppermint that perfectly captures the spirit of the season. Now a seasonal staple, the peppermint latte began gaining popularity in 2002. However, it wasn’t until 2015 that the internet declared it deserved its own day of celebration.
The Historical Roots of Flavored Lattes
Flavored coffee is not a modern innovation. Its origins trace back centuries to the Middle East, when coffee was often brewed with cardamom, cinnamon or dried fruits. These traditions, still reflected in Arabic and Turkish coffees, introduced layers of unique, complex flavors to the beverage.
The American flavored latte, however, emerged in the 1980s in San Francisco’s North Beach neighborhood. LC "Brandy" Brandenburg, a retired coffee industry veteran, began experimenting with Torani syrups to craft what is considered the first flavored latte. His creation, the Fantasia, blended vanilla and orange flavors, igniting a flavored coffee trend that brought syrups like caramel, chocolate and vanilla to café menus across the country.
The Evolution of Café Culture and Flavored Lattes
Flavored lattes rose to prominence alongside broader changes in coffee culture. During the early 1980s, most American coffee shops offered only basic options like straight espresso or cappuccino. Flavored syrups made espresso drinks more approachable, appealing to customers who found traditional coffee too bitter.
By the 1990s, Starbucks and other chains fully embraced flavored lattes, popularizing holiday classics like the Eggnog Latte (1986), Pumpkin Spice Latte (2003) and Chestnut Praline Latte (2014).
Beyond flavor, lattes became a form of self-expression. Syrups and customizations allowed customers to craft drinks that reflected their personal tastes.
The Starbucks Peppermint Mocha: A Holiday Legend
The peppermint latte owes much of its popularity to Starbucks, whose Peppermint Mocha has become a holiday icon. After the success of the Gingerbread Latte in 2000, Starbucks’ research and development team set out to create another festive drink inspired by the season.
Inspired by the candy canes and peppermint candies that dominate the season, the team developed a recipe combining espresso, bittersweet mocha sauce, peppermint syrup and steamed milk. The final touch was whipped cream and red sprinkles, later swapped for dark chocolate curls.
Debuting in 2002, the Peppermint Mocha quickly became a fan favorite, earning a permanent spot on Starbucks’ seasonal menu. Today, it’s available hot, iced and blended, and it can even be found in grocery stores as pre-made drinks and limited-edition ground coffee.
How to Celebrate National Peppermint Latte Day
Here are some creative ways to make the most of this festive coffee holiday:
- Sip Local
Support a neighborhood coffee shop and try their take on the peppermint latte. It’s a chance to enjoy a seasonal favorite while supporting small businesses in your community. - Craft a Personalized Peppermint Latte
Experiment with new twists on the classic recipe (like the one below). Try milk alternatives like oat or almond, or add unique toppings such as crushed gingerbread cookies or white chocolate chips. - Create a DIY Peppermint Latte Bar
Set up a latte bar with peppermint syrup, whipped cream, chocolate shavings and other festive toppings. - Upgrade Your Coffee Amenity to SipWithMe
Bring the joy of barista-quality beverages to your community with SipWithMe and enjoy expertly crafted coffee that creates meaningful moments all year long! - Host a Latte Art Workshop
Learn the art of crafting festive designs like candy canes or snowflakes. - Plan a Holiday Pairing Party
Pair peppermint lattes with seasonal treats like gingerbread cookies, cranberry scones or chocolate truffles. It’s a delicious way to elevate your celebration.
Peppermint Latte Recipe
Grab your favorite SipWithMe espresso or coffee and brew up some holiday happiness with this delicious recipe from Recipe Rebel:
Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3/4 cup SipWithMe espresso or coffee
- 1/4 teaspoon mint extract
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whipped cream and chocolate shavings (optional)
Directions:
- Combine milk, sugar, and cocoa powder in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat until small bubbles form and sugar dissolves.
- Stir in espresso or coffee, mint extract, and vanilla extract. Remove from heat.
- Pour into your favorite mug and top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings if desired.
Whether you enjoy it at home or at a local coffee shop, National Peppermint Latte Day is a chance to celebrate the simple joys of the season. Cheers to peppermint perfection!
This holiday season, treat your community to exceptional coffee experiences. Learn more about SipWithMe today!
