Frappe vs Frappuccino: What is the Difference?
Have you ever been in a Starbucks and wondered, “what the heck is the difference between a frappe and a frappucino?!” Well, you are not alone. We have all been there.
While the two may sound familiar, they are actually very different drinks. They are both popular chilled beverages in the coffee industry. So, let’s dive in and see what each beverage is, what the differences are, and which one is the better choice for you.
What is a Frappe?
The frappe has been around since the 19th century. It is a French coffee beverage that refers to a chilled or iced drink. Then, Dimitris Vakondios wanted a way to make an instant coffee and the Greek Frappe was invented. It quickly become popular throughout Greece. At the 2004 Summer Olympics it took center stage for the world to see.
It has now spread around the world. There are several ways to make and enjoy this beverage. Some use coffee as a base, others use espresso as the base. It depends on how you like it. So, what is a frappe? The traditional frappe is made with instant coffee and water.
However, there are many different variations of it. Some use brewed coffee or espresso instead. You can also add in cream, milk, ice, and flavor of your choice to personalize it for your taste.
What is a Frappuccino?
The Frappuccino was inspired by the frappe. This version is more like a milkshake then an iced coffee. The original version was created by The Coffee Connection using an ice cream milkshake and espresso. This business was purchased by Starbucks in 1994, along with this drink.
While the recipe has been changed and tweaked over time, the name stuck. A Frappuccino is now a trademark named beverage found only at Starbucks around the world. You can get frappuccinos both with coffee and without coffee in them.
They come in all different flavors for you to enjoy. If you want just a plain Frappuccino it is made with coffee, milk, and vanilla ice cream. If you want something a little more unique and fun, then try the Java Chip Frappuccino or the White Chocolate Mocha Frappuccino.
Frappe vs Frappuccino: What’s the Difference?
As you can see there are some similarities between these two drinks. They both contain coffee and are iced beverages. However, there are also some major differences between the two. Let’s take a look at how these two coffee beverages are different. These differences include:
Type of Coffee Used:
Traditionally frappes are made using instant coffee. On the other hand, frappuccinos are made using either brewed coffee or espresso. While some frappes are made using espresso, it is not common.
Specific or General:
Frappe is a generic term that is used around the world in different coffee shops and cafes. You will find this coffee beverage on menus. The Frappuccino is a trademarked name that you will only find at Starbucks.
Amount of Coffee:
Coffee is the base, or core ingredient, in a frappe. However, a Frappuccino may or may not contain any coffee in it. There are several ingredients in a Frappuccino, so it isn’t a straight coffee beverage. It is more like a milkshake that may contain some coffee in it.
Origin of Drink:
A frappe began in France and then was tweaked and altered in Greece. The Greek version quickly spread around the globe. It is now a staple coffee drink that you can order and buy around the world.
The Frappuccino is inspired by it and was created on the East Coast of America. It was then acquired by Starbucks and can now be found in them around the world.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can a frappe be made in a blender?
Yes, this is actually a common way to make them. You add all of the ingredients such as the coffee, water, and ice and blend them together. It’s a quick and easy way to make a frappe.
Do frappes taste like coffee?
Yes, because the base ingredient is coffee, this drink will taste like coffee. You can add in cream and flavored syrups to make it the flavor you want. However, this is a coffee beverage at its core.
Do frappes have milk in them?
The traditional frappe does not contain milk. However, it is common to add in milk or cream to it. It depends on how it is prepared for you.
Are frappes hot?
No, frappes are not hot. They are chilled coffee beverages, usually made with ice. Perfect for a hot summer day.
Are frappuccinos cold?
Yes, frappuccinos are cold drinks because they are made with ice and other cold ingredients.
Do a frappuccino have coffee in it?
The answer is it depends. Some frappuccinos are made with coffee. Others are not. There are many options on the Starbucks menu for you to choose. It really depends on which flavor you choose to get.
Are frappuccinos decaf?
Again, it depends. Some frappuccinos are made with decaf coffee and others have no coffee in them at all. It really depends on which flavor you choose to buy.
Are frappuccinos sweet?
Yes, frappuccinos are sweet coffee beverages. They are made like milkshakes and use flavored syrups and other sweet ingredients. If you don’t like sweet coffee drinks, then you won’t enjoy them.
Final Thoughts:
The frappe and the Frappuccino have several things in common. They also have some major differences between them. Personally, I think both beverages are delicious. I tend to choose the frappe over the Frappuccino because it is not as sweet and heavy.
If you enjoy an iced coffee more, then choose the frappe. However, if you like the idea of a coffee milkshake then you will love the Frappuccino. It really comes down to your personal preference and how you like your coffee prepared.
You can’t really go wrong with either one. They are both delicious options that come in many different flavors for you to enjoy.
Related Articles:
Frappe vs Iced Coffee: What is the Difference?
Long Black vs Americano: What is the Difference?
Flat White vs Latte: What is the Difference? (& Which is Better?)
