Does mochaccino contain caffeine? An in-depth look

December 12, 2025 •

3 min read

According to coffee experts, a standard mochaccino contains caffeine primarily from its espresso base. Yes, a mochaccino contains caffeine, making it a beverage that delivers both a sweet, chocolatey flavor and a noticeable energy kick.

Quick Summary

A mochaccino contains caffeine because it is made with espresso, a concentrated coffee. The caffeine level is based on the number of espresso shots, with a small amount also coming from the chocolate.

Key Points

Caffeine Source: The primary source of caffeine in a mochaccino is the espresso, not the chocolate.
Variable Content: The total caffeine content depends mainly on how many shots of espresso are used in the drink.
Small Chocolate Contribution: While chocolate does contain caffeine, its contribution to the mochaccino's overall caffeine is minimal.
Decaf Availability: You can easily order a decaf mochaccino to get the same flavor profile without the high caffeine level.
Comparing Drinks: A standard mochaccino (with a double shot) often contains more caffeine than a single-shot cappuccino but less than a large drip coffee.

Understanding the Mochaccino's Caffeinated Ingredients

At its core, a mochaccino is a coffee-based beverage, and it's the coffee component that is the primary source of caffeine. The term "mochaccino" is a variation of caffè mocha, combining espresso, steamed milk, and chocolate. This delicious blend results in a layered and indulgent drink, but the caffeine content is a direct consequence of its foundational ingredients.

The Role of Espresso

Espresso is a concentrated coffee brewed by forcing a small amount of near-boiling water under high pressure through finely-ground coffee beans. A single shot of espresso contains approximately 63 milligrams of caffeine, while a double shot contains around 126 milligrams. Since most mochaccinos are made with at least one shot of espresso, this ingredient alone ensures a substantial caffeine presence in the final drink. The number of espresso shots is the most significant factor determining the total caffeine content.

The Contribution of Chocolate

The chocolate used in a mochaccino, typically as a syrup or cocoa powder, also contains a small amount of caffeine. However, this contribution is generally minor compared to the espresso. For instance, a tablespoon of cocoa powder might add only a few milligrams of caffeine. While not the main source, it does add to the overall stimulating effect of the beverage. The type of chocolate also matters, with dark chocolate containing more caffeine than milk or white chocolate.

How Much Caffeine to Expect

The exact amount of caffeine in a mochaccino can vary widely based on several factors, including the serving size and the number of espresso shots used. Here is a typical breakdown:

Single-Shot Mochaccino: A small mochaccino with one shot of espresso will contain roughly 63-65 mg of caffeine, plus the minimal amount from the chocolate.
Double-Shot Mochaccino: A larger drink or a barista's standard recipe often includes a double shot, elevating the caffeine content to around 125-130 mg.
Large Cafe Drink: A large (16-ounce) mochaccino from a major coffee chain might contain 150 mg or more of caffeine, depending on the number of shots and the specific recipe.

Mochaccino vs. Other Caffeinated Beverages

To put a mochaccino's caffeine content into perspective, it's helpful to compare it to other popular drinks. The following table illustrates the approximate caffeine levels of various beverages.


Beverage	Serving Size	Approximate Caffeine (mg)
Mochaccino (Single Shot)	8 oz	65
Mochaccino (Double Shot)	12 oz	130
Drip Brewed Coffee	8 oz	95-100
Espresso Shot	1 oz	63-65
Cappuccino (Single Shot)	6 oz	65-70
Black Tea	8 oz	40-70

Factors That Influence Your Mochaccino's Kick

Beyond the number of espresso shots, other elements can subtly alter the caffeine content of your drink. When ordering or preparing your own, consider the following:

Serving Size: Larger sizes often contain more shots of espresso to maintain the coffee flavor, directly increasing the caffeine.
Chocolate Type: As mentioned, a mochaccino made with dark chocolate will have slightly more caffeine than one with milk or white chocolate.
Decaf Options: If you love the flavor but not the energy boost, most coffee shops can prepare your mochaccino with decaffeinated espresso. The resulting drink will contain a negligible amount of caffeine, primarily from the chocolate.

The Verdict on Decaf Mochaccinos

For those who are sensitive to caffeine or prefer to avoid it, a decaf mochaccino is a perfectly viable and delicious option. It's made using decaf espresso, which has undergone a process to remove most of its caffeine content. The flavor profile remains largely the same, but the stimulating effects are minimized. This allows you to enjoy the rich, chocolatey, and creamy taste of a mochaccino without worrying about a caffeine crash or restless night. When ordering, simply specify that you would like your espresso to be decaf.

Conclusion: The Answer is a Resounding Yes

So, does mochaccino contain caffeine? The answer is an unequivocal yes. As a coffee-based beverage built on a foundation of espresso, a mochaccino naturally includes caffeine. While the exact amount can differ based on the number of espresso shots, the type of chocolate used, and the serving size, it's safe to assume any standard mochaccino will provide a caffeinated boost. For those monitoring their intake, opting for a decaf version is an excellent way to savor the delicious flavor without the stimulant effects. Understanding the caffeine content allows you to enjoy this popular and decadent drink responsibly, whether you're seeking a morning pick-me-up or a late-afternoon treat.

Learn more about different coffee drinks and brewing techniques by exploring resources like Olde Brooklyn Coffee.

Frequently Asked Questions

A mochaccino is a coffee-based drink made with espresso, steamed milk, and chocolate, which can be in the form of syrup, powder, or melted chocolate.

A mochaccino and a cappuccino often have similar espresso-based caffeine content if they use the same number of shots. The mochaccino, however, has added chocolate and is typically sweeter, which can give the perception of more strength.

Yes, you can order a mochaccino made with decaffeinated espresso. This significantly reduces the caffeine content, leaving only a trace amount from the chocolate.

Yes, it does, though only slightly. Dark chocolate contains more caffeine than milk chocolate, so a mochaccino made with dark chocolate will have a marginally higher caffeine count.

The terms are often used interchangeably, but a mochaccino is technically a variant of a caffè mocha. The specific proportions and preparation can vary, with the mochaccino often having a thicker foam like a cappuccino.

Since it contains caffeine from espresso, a mochaccino can keep you awake, especially if you are sensitive to caffeine or drink it later in the day. The stimulating effects depend on your personal tolerance.

To reduce the caffeine in your mochaccino, you should ask for it to be made with decaf espresso. You can also opt for a smaller size, which typically uses fewer espresso shots.