What is a Frappe?
A frappe is a cold, frothy and energizing coffee drink made with espresso, milk, sugar and ice blended together. This cold coffee treat is perfect for warm weather and a favorite at coffee shops and cafes around the world. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, at the beach or having a backyard BBQ, a frappe gives you a boost of energy. While frappes are similar to frappuccinos, they are not the same – each has its own twist. In this recipe we’ll show you how to make a frappe at home that beats any coffee shop.
Ingredients and Equipment
Making a frappe at home is easy and you’ll need only a few basic ingredients and tools:
Ingredients:
- 2 double shots of cold espresso or ½ cup of cold, prepared instant espresso or strong brewed coffee
- ¼ cup of whole or 2% milk (you can use plant-based milk options like almond or coconut milk)
- 2 tablespoons of packed light brown sugar (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon of vanilla extract (optional but nice)
- 1 cup of ice cubes
- Whipped cream for serving (optional but highly recommended)
Equipment:
- Blender or shaker
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tall glass or jar for serving
- Straw (because sipping a frappe through a straw is more fun!)
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Basic Frappe Recipe
This basic frappe recipe is a great starting point for a refreshing and delicious homemade coffee drink.
Steps:
- Prepare the Coffee: If using instant espresso, dissolve it in a little cold water. If using brewed espresso or strong coffee, chill it before using in the recipe.
- Combine the Ingredients: In your blender, add the cold espresso, milk, light brown sugar, vanilla extract (if using) and ice cubes. The sugar helps balance the bitterness of the coffee and enhances the flavor.
- Blend the Mixture: Start by blending on low speed for 10-15 seconds, then high speed. Blend for another 20-30 seconds or until the mixture is smooth and frothy.
- Serve the Frappe: Pour the blended frappe mixture into two tall glasses. If desired, top with whipped cream for a indulgent finish. You can also drizzle with chocolate or caramel syrup for extra special.
- Drink Immediately: Frappe is best served fresh. Sip with a straw and enjoy the rich, smooth coffee flavor and creamy, icy texture.
Variations:
- If you want a stronger coffee flavor, use more espresso or add an extra shot.
- For a sweeter frappe, add more sugar or a flavored syrup like caramel or vanilla.
Customizing Your Frappe
One of the best things about making frappes at home is you can customize them to your taste. Here are some easy ways to do so:
- Non-Dairy Options: Use almond milk, soy milk or coconut milk instead of dairy milk for a vegan version. These alternatives also add subtle flavors to the coffee.
- Flavored Syrups: Add a shot of caramel syrup for a caramel frappe or chocolate syrup for a mocha frappe. These are easy ways to make your frappe feel like a dessert.
- Ice Cream: For a thicker, creamier frappe, blend in a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This will give you a milkshake-like consistency and turn your frappe into a treat.
- Try Different Flavors: Get creative and try out different flavor combinations like hazelnut, peppermint or coconut. Many coffee syrups come in these flavors so you can make your perfect frappe.
How to Make the Perfect Frappe
Here are a few tips to help you master the frappe:
- Use Strong Coffee: A bold coffee base makes all the difference in the flavor of the frappe. Use strong brewed coffee or espresso so the coffee doesn’t get watered down by the ice and milk.
- Milk Ice Cubes: Freeze milk in ice cube trays and use those instead of regular ice cubes to avoid watering down your drink. This will keep your frappe cold and creamy.
- Blend Well: Blend your ingredients long enough to get a smooth, frothy texture. The longer you blend, the creamier your frappe will be.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust the sweetness and creaminess to your taste. You can always add more sugar or milk to get your desired flavor.
- Drink Immediately: Frappe is best served fresh. The frothy texture and creamy consistency will start to settle if left too long so drink up before it gets flat.
Don’t Do This
Making a frappe is easy but here are a few common mistakes to avoid:
- Too Much Ice: Adding too much ice will water down the flavor of your frappe and make it weak and slushy. Use about 1 cup of ice per serving.
- Not Blending Long Enough: If you don’t blend long enough you’ll end up with a chunky or icy texture instead of smooth and creamy. Make sure you blend well.
- Not Adjusting Sweetness: Different coffees have different levels of bitterness so taste your frappe and adjust the sugar to balance the flavors.
- Waiting Too Long to Serve: Frappe needs to be served immediately to maintain the frothy, chilled texture. If left to sit it will lose its refreshing appeal.
Enjoy Your Frappe
Frappe is all about indulgence. Serve your frappe in a tall glass or a fun mason jar with a straw. If you’re feeling extra fancy top with whipped cream and shaved chocolate or cinnamon.
Frappe is a great summer pick me up and perfect to enjoy by the pool, at the beach or just at home. Treat yourself while you get your caffeine fix.
Variations and Flavorings
You can create so many different frappes. Here are some ideas to take your frappe to the next level:
- Caramel Frappe: Add a shot of caramel syrup and top with whipped cream and caramel drizzle.
- Mocha Frappe: Add chocolate syrup.
- Vanilla Frappe: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Iced Tea Frappe: Use brewed tea instead of coffee. Try a shot of lemon syrup for a lemon iced tea frappe.
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Advanced Frappe Techniques
Want to take your easy frappe making skills to the next level? Try these:
- Blender with Ice Crusher: If you have a blender with an ice crusher function use it for a smoother frappe texture.
- Cold Brew Coffee: Experiment with different types of coffee, cold brew or espresso shots to enhance the flavor of your frappe.
- Add Liqueur: For a grown up twist add a shot of your favorite coffee liqueur, Kahlúa or Baileys to the frappe.
- Shaker Method: If you prefer a more traditional frappe texture try shaking the ingredients in a cocktail shaker instead of blending. This will give you a slightly different texture but just as enjoyable.
Conclusion
Making a frappe at home is easier than you thought. With a few ingredients and a blender you can have a frothy coffee treat in minutes. Whether you stick to the classic or experiment with different flavors and ingredients frappes are endless. Try this and you’ll be making café quality frappes in no time.
