Decoding the Biscoff Frappe: A Tale of Two Drinks
The caramelized, spiced flavor of Lotus Biscoff cookies has exploded in popularity, leading to a proliferation of Biscoff-flavored drinks and desserts. Among the most popular is the Biscoff frappe, a creamy, blended drink that promises a sweet, cookie-filled experience. However, confusion often arises around one key ingredient: coffee. Is the rich, caramel flavor of a Biscoff frappe inherently tied to coffee, or is it just a delicious, sweet indulgence? The definitive answer is that it varies significantly depending on the recipe or the vendor. The distinctive Biscoff taste is derived from a Belgian speculoos cookie, a caramelized biscuit with notes of cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg—not coffee. This flavor pairs well with coffee, but is not dependent on it. Here, we'll break down the different versions, so you'll know exactly what to expect from your next order.
The Coffee-Based Biscoff Frappe
For those who love a caffeine boost, many Biscoff frappes are designed as a coffee-forward drink. These are often similar to a classic frappuccino, blending coffee or espresso with a flavor base.
Common Coffee Frappe Ingredients
- Espresso or Strong Coffee: Typically chilled, this provides the coffee base and caffeine.
- Biscoff Spread: The key ingredient that imparts the iconic caramelized cookie flavor.
- Milk: Provides the creamy texture, with options ranging from whole milk to almond or oat milk.
- Ice: Blended with the other ingredients to create the signature frosty, thick texture.
- Whipped Cream & Garnish: Often topped with whipped cream, a drizzle of extra Biscoff spread, and crushed Biscoff cookies for extra flavor and texture.
Many at-home recipes follow this method, combining a shot of espresso with the sweet, cookie-flavored elements for a complete cafe-style drink. Some independent cafes and coffee shops also serve their Biscoff frappes with a coffee base as standard, though it is often customizable.
The Caffeine-Free Biscoff Frappe
In contrast, many other versions of the Biscoff frappe contain absolutely no coffee and are essentially milkshakes with the signature Biscoff flavor. These are ideal for children, people who avoid caffeine, or those simply craving a rich, dessert-like treat. Companies like McDonald's (which previously offered a Biscoff frappe) and other cafes frequently serve this caffeine-free alternative.
Non-Coffee Frappe Ingredients
- Milk: Serves as the creamy base, just as in the coffee version.
- Vanilla Ice Cream or Vanilla Base: Often used to thicken the drink and add a sweet, creamy flavor that complements the Biscoff.
- Biscoff Spread & Cookies: Gives the drink its signature flavor and texture.
- Sweetener: Sometimes includes extra sugar or vanilla syrup to enhance the sweetness.
This version highlights the cookie's unique, spiced flavor without the bitterness of coffee, creating a different but equally delicious experience.
Comparison Table: Coffee vs. Non-Coffee Biscoff Frappe
| Feature | Coffee-Based Biscoff Frappe | Non-Coffee Biscoff Frappe |
|---|---|---|
| Core Ingredients | Coffee/espresso, Biscoff spread, milk, ice, sweetener | Milk, vanilla ice cream/base, Biscoff spread, ice |
| Caffeine Content | Yes, contains a significant amount of caffeine. | No, completely caffeine-free. |
| Flavor Profile | Coffee-forward with caramelized, spiced undertones. | Sweet, creamy, dessert-like with prominent cookie flavor. |
| Best For | Morning or midday pick-me-up; coffee lovers seeking a sweet treat. | Evening desserts; people sensitive to caffeine; children. |
| Cafe Availability | Common at independent cafes and as DIY 'secret menu' options. | Often available at fast-food chains or as a custom order. |
How to Ensure Your Frappe is Coffee-Free
- Ask Directly: The simplest solution is to ask the barista, "Does your Biscoff frappe have coffee in it?" or "Is it a coffee frappe or a creme frappe?" Many establishments will offer both variations, or can easily make a non-coffee version.
- Order a 'Creme' Frappe: At some places that offer a range of frappes, you can specify that you want a creme-based version. A 'creme' frappuccino at Starbucks, for instance, has no coffee base.
- Specify Ingredients: When ordering at an independent cafe, you can request that they use a non-coffee base. For example, “Can I have the Biscoff frappe made with a vanilla base instead of coffee?”
- DIY at Home: The best way to control the ingredients is to make it yourself. A standard home recipe can be made coffee-free simply by omitting the espresso and potentially adding more vanilla ice cream for a thicker, richer base.
A Note on Cafe-Specific Variations
It is important to remember that every cafe has its own unique recipe. For example, some international locations or chains might have different menu offerings. A Reddit thread of McDonald's employees indicated that some frappes might have coffee flavoring but little actual caffeine, especially in older versions. In other instances, a specific recipe might call for coffee, as seen in many 'DIY' Starbucks-style Biscoff Frappuccino recipes. Always assume the recipe can change and, if in doubt, inquire about the ingredients.
Conclusion: Your Biscoff Frappe, Your Choice
Ultimately, whether a Biscoff frappe contains coffee is not a universal fact but a matter of how it's prepared. You have the power to choose by either checking the ingredients list, asking the barista, or making your own custom version at home. The Biscoff flavor itself—a rich, caramelized spice that is distinct from coffee—lends itself perfectly to both coffee-based and non-coffee blended beverages. So whether you need a morning pick-me-up or a late-night treat, you can indulge in the decadent taste of Biscoff, with or without the coffee.
Learn more about the flavor inspiration by exploring the history of the original Lotus Biscoff cookies on their official website: Lotus Biscoff official site.
Making a Biscoff Frappe at Home
Creating a delicious Biscoff frappe at home is straightforward and allows for complete control over the ingredients, including the presence of coffee. A simple recipe for a non-coffee version would involve blending vanilla ice cream, milk, Biscoff spread, and ice until smooth, then garnishing with whipped cream and crushed cookies. For a coffee kick, one can easily add a shot of chilled espresso or some cold-brewed coffee into the blender with the other ingredients. This adaptability is one of the reasons the Biscoff frappe is so popular.
Regional Differences in Biscoff Frappe Offerings
Across the world, the definition and ingredients of a 'Biscoff frappe' can differ greatly. In some regions, a frappe is strictly a non-coffee milkshake, while in others, it is inherently coffee-based. For example, the discontinued McDonald's Biscoff frappe in the UK was part of a line of frappes that sometimes included coffee, while dupes for the US market often specify if they contain coffee flavoring. These regional variations make it even more important to verify the ingredients if you are in a new location.
Biscoff Frappes and Caffeine Sensitivity
For those with caffeine sensitivity, assuming a Biscoff frappe is automatically caffeine-free could be a mistake. As discussed, coffee or espresso is a common addition, and even some coffee flavorings can contain small amounts of caffeine. Always make sure to order a 'creme' or non-coffee version to be safe. Thankfully, with the popularity of customizable drinks, it's easier than ever to get a delicious, decadent treat without any caffeine jitters.
Biscoff Frappe: The Verdict
To put it simply, the presence of coffee in a Biscoff frappe is not guaranteed. It is a flexible, customizable drink that draws its signature flavor from the Biscoff cookies and spread, not from coffee itself. Whether you want a caffeinated or non-caffeinated experience, a Biscoff frappe can be made to suit your preference. Always check the ingredients or ask your barista to be certain. Enjoy the spiced, caramel goodness either way!
Key Ingredients for Biscoff Frappe
Key components in most Biscoff frappes include a dairy or non-dairy milk, ice, Biscoff cookie spread for flavor, and crushed Biscoff cookies for garnish and texture. Coffee or espresso is an optional addition, turning the creamy dessert drink into a caffeinated blended beverage. Toppings like whipped cream and extra Biscoff drizzles are also standard to enhance the indulgence.
Health and Nutritional Considerations
Finally, it's worth noting the nutritional difference between a coffee-based frappe and a non-coffee version. While both are generally high in sugar and calories, a coffee version can have additional health effects due to caffeine. For those monitoring their caffeine intake or seeking a sweet treat late in the day, the non-coffee version is the clear choice. For those seeking an energy boost, the coffee version delivers both caffeine and a delicious flavor.
