Skinny Peppermint Mocha Food

STARBUCKS PEPPERMINT MOCHA

Steps:

• Combine 3 Tbsp Baking Cocoa with 3 Tbsp warm water to make into a rich syrup. Pour into a 16 ounce mug.
• Add espresso
• Add Peppermint syrup.
• Steam milk and add to remainder of cup.
• Garnish with whipped cream and sugar crystals.
• Note: To make espresso (for 2 servings of this recipe) for those who do not know how, follow the directions below. Don't let the thought scare you it is almost as easy as making regular american coffee- it just takes a little practice:
• Buy a $30 machine (Mr. Coffee ECM250 is good).
• Put water into carafe up to band and put into machine.
• Put coffee (any kind of finely ground) into filter head and pack down well.
• Turn on and brew until carafe fills to 4 cup line that way there is still enough water in machine to steam milk.
• Switch to steam mode and steam milk (if you do not have a frothing pitcher a 12 oz ceramic mug will work filled half way with milk but takes 2 fill ups to make one serving of this recipe).
• Follow recipe and enjoy!

SKINNY PEPPERMINT MOCHA CUPCAKES

Steps:

• Preheat oven to 350* F.
• Mix together Cake Mix, can of Diet Pop, and Peppermint Extract (Do not add ingredients listed on the back of the box).
• Fill cupcake liners 1/2-2/3 full of batter (depending on how big you want them).
• Bake as directed on the back of the box for cupcakes (usually 25-30 minutes).
• Frosting: Use a whisk to mix together the Cool Whip Lite, Pudding Mix, and Peppermint Extract. Wait for cupcakes to cool, then frost and decorate. Enjoy!