What is a Frappe
A frappe is a cold, blended iced, drink with a smooth and creamy texture. Born in Greece in the 1950s, the frappe became popular because of its simplicity and versatility. Made with instant coffee, water, sugar and ice, this iced coffee drink has spread worldwide and you can find many variations in coffee shops around the globe.
The word “frappe” comes from the French verb frapper which means “to slap” or “to beat” which reflects the vigorous mixing or shaking needed to create the drink’s foam. While coffee is the traditional base, frappes can be made with tea, hot chocolate or even fruit juice, so it’s a treat for all. Usually served cold, frappes are often topped with whipped cream, syrups or even ice cream to add flavor and richness.
Ingredients and Options
The traditional frappe is simple with just a few ingredients:
- Instant coffee: The original frappe recipe uses instant coffee as it dissolves fast and creates the right foam.
- Water: Cold water is mixed with the coffee to form the base of the drink.
- Sugar: Added to taste, how sweet you like your frappe.
- Milk: Added for a creamier texture, milk can be whole or skim depending on your preference.
- Ice: The ice is necessary to chill the drink and give it a thick consistency.
But you can customize your frappe in many ways:
- Espresso or brewed coffee: For a stronger coffee flavor, use espresso or strong brewed coffee instead of instant coffee.
- Flavored syrups: Caramel, chocolate or vanilla syrups to give your frappe a sweet and creamy twist.
- Hot chocolate or tea: For a non-coffee option, use hot chocolate or brewed tea as the base and add milk and sugar for sweetness.
- Ice cream or whipped cream: Add these to make your frappe more decadent and dessert-like.
You can also customize your frappe to suit your dietary needs. For a lighter version use skimmed milk or plant based milk alternatives like almond, soy or coconut milk. Adding crushed ice or ice cream can also change the texture and turn your frappe beverage into a thicker and creamier drink.
Limited Edition Deal! Smartwhip 640g – Now £26.95
How to Blend
- Use cold ingredients: Cold coffee, milk and ice are necessary for a frappe. Warm or room temperature ingredients won’t blend well and will result to a watery drink.
- Blend well: Whether using a blender or a cocktail shaker, the key to a frappe’s foam is vigorous blending. For a creamier drink blend for about 30 seconds until smooth. Using crushed ice instead of whole ice cubes will also help to a smoother texture.
- Play with ratios: The perfect frappe is all about balance. Too much coffee will make the drink bitter, too much milk or sugar will overpower the flavor. Start with the basic recipe and adjust the ratios of coffee, milk and sugar to your taste.
- Chill with ice: Adding ice cubes or crushed ice not only chills the frappe but also thickens the texture. If you prefer a thicker drink, reduce the liquid and increase the ice.
Nutrition and Health Info
Frappes are delicious but high in sugar and fat especially when topped with whipped cream, syrups or ice cream. So they are more of an occasional treat than an everyday drink. But with a few tweaks you can make a healthier frappe at home.
- Low-fat or skimmed milk: Using low-fat milk reduces the saturated fat in your frappe without compromising the creamy texture.
- Sugar alternatives: If you want to reduce sugar, try using natural sweeteners like honey or stevia. These alternatives are sweet without the calories.
- Vegan options: Plant based milk like almond or oat milk can be used to make a vegan frappe. Pair it with dairy free chocolate or caramel syrup for extra flavor.
Caffeine content in frappes is similar to regular coffee but can vary depending on the type of coffee used. If you’re sensitive to caffeine, use decaf coffee or try a tea based frappe for a lower caffeine option.
Try Flavors and Recipes
One of the best things about making frappes is the endless possibilities. You can create many flavors of drinks and combinations to suit your mood or cravings. Here are a few to get you started:
- Mocha frappe: Add a tablespoon of chocolate syrup to your coffee mixture for a mocha flavor. Top with whipped cream and chocolate sauce for a treat.
- Caramel frappe: Mix in a shot of caramel syrup for a sweet buttery flavor. Add a sprinkle of sea salt for a salted caramel frappe.
- Vanilla frappe: Add a dash of vanilla extract or syrup to your coffee for a smooth slightly sweet flavor. Pairs well with almond milk for a non dairy version.
- Cold brew frappe: For a smoother less bitter drink try using cold brew coffee as the base instead of instant coffee or espresso. Cold brew’s natural mild flavor is perfect for frappes.
How to Make a Frappe at Home
Making what is in a frappe, at home is easy and you can customize it to your liking. Here’s how to make a simple one:
- Ingredients: Combine cold brew coffee or espresso, milk, sugar (to taste) and ice cubes in a blender.
- Blend: Blend on low speed for 15-20 seconds then high speed for 30 seconds or until smooth and frothy.
- Serve: Pour into a glass and if desired top with whipped cream and syrup.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately with a straw for best texture and flavor.
Advanced Frappe Techniques
If you want to take your frappe game to the next level here are some advanced techniques to try:
- Frappe maker: Using a frappe maker or high powered blender will give you a smoother more consistent texture.
- Espresso shot: For a stronger coffee flavor add a shot of freshly brewed espresso to your frappe.
- Chocolate variations: Try different types of chocolate—dark, white, milk— for different flavors. You can even add chocolate shavings or cocoa powder for extra richness.
- Toppings: Get creative with toppings like whipped cream, chocolate shavings or a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg. These will turn your frappe into a gourmet drink.
Original price was: £27.50.£21.50Current price is: £21.50.
Original price was: £26.95.£21.95Current price is: £21.95.
Original price was: £23.95.£19.99Current price is: £19.99.
Original price was: £29.95.£19.95Current price is: £19.95.
Original price was: £24.98.£20.98Current price is: £20.98.
Original price was: £24.95.£20.50Current price is: £20.50.
Original price was: £35.00.£26.95Current price is: £26.95.
Conclusion
Frappes are a fun drink that can be customized to suit any taste or diet. Whether you like a classic coffee frappe or like to experiment with flavors and ingredients the options are endless. Now you can make a frappe at home to your liking.
