Does a Caramel Frappe Have Any Coffee in It?

December 1, 2025 •

3 min read

While the term 'frappe' originates from a French word meaning 'iced,' many modern blended versions do contain coffee. This article explores whether a caramel frappe has any coffee in it, clearing up the common confusion surrounding this popular drink.

Quick Summary

Yes, many caramel frappes from popular chains include coffee or a coffee-based mix for flavor, giving them a caffeine kick. Ingredients can vary by brand, and non-coffee options are often available, so it is best to check.

Key Points

Standard Versions: The default Caramel Frappuccino at Starbucks and Caramel Frappé at McDonald's both contain coffee.
Caffeine Content: Expect a standard caramel frappe from major chains to have a measurable amount of caffeine.
Creme-Based Alternatives: Starbucks offers 'Crème Frappuccinos' for a non-coffee, non-caffeinated option.
Varies by Brand: Not all drinks labeled 'frappe' contain coffee; the recipe is specific to the cafe.
Control at Home: Homemade versions allow you to easily omit the coffee for a caffeine-free dessert.
Ask the Barista: When in doubt, always ask for clarification on the ingredients at your local coffee shop.

Unpacking the Caramel Frappe: Coffee or No Coffee?

For many, the caramel frappe is a go-to treat—a creamy, sweet, and icy indulgence. But a common question lingers: does it actually have coffee in it? The answer, like the blended drink itself, is not a simple one-size-fits-all. The inclusion of coffee or caffeine depends heavily on the specific recipe and the cafe serving it. While the term 'frappe' broadly refers to a blended iced drink, major chains like Starbucks and McDonald's have their own distinct methods and ingredient lists.

The Starbucks Caramel Frappuccino: The Original Blend

Starbucks, which trademarked the Frappuccino name, clearly includes coffee in its standard Caramel Frappuccino. The recipe is a blend of ice, coffee, milk, and buttery caramel syrup. A medium-sized (Grande) Caramel Frappuccino at Starbucks contains approximately 90mg of caffeine, confirming the presence of a coffee base. For those who want the creamy texture without the coffee, Starbucks offers 'Crème Frappuccinos,' which are coffee-free versions, though they may still contain trace amounts of caffeine from other ingredients like chocolate.

The McDonald's McCafé Caramel Frappé: Coffee Extract is Key

McDonald's offers its own version, the McCafé Caramel Frappé, which also includes coffee. The ingredients list for the Caramel Coffee Frappe Base explicitly mentions 'coffee extract'. This coffee extract provides the coffee flavor and caffeine content in the blended drink, alongside cream, sugar, and caramel flavor. The exact caffeine level can vary depending on the size and regional recipe, but it's important to know that the standard version is not caffeine-free.

Homemade vs. Cafe Versions

When you make a caramel frappe at home, you have complete control over the ingredients. Many recipes call for cooled brewed coffee or espresso to provide the base, while others may use instant coffee powder. For a caffeine-free version, home cooks can simply substitute the coffee with extra milk or a non-caffeinated base, creating a delicious treat without the buzz. This customization is a major advantage of making your own frappe.

Common Ingredients in a Coffee-Based Caramel Frappe

While recipes can vary, the core components of a standard coffee-based caramel frappe often include:

Brewed Coffee or Espresso: Chilled, strong coffee provides the central flavor and caffeine kick.
Milk: Used for creaminess and texture, with options ranging from whole milk to dairy alternatives.
Ice: The essential ingredient for creating the characteristic frozen, slushy consistency.
Caramel Syrup/Sauce: Provides the signature caramel flavor and sweetness.
Sugar or Sweetener: Adds to the sweetness, though this can be adjusted.
Whipped Cream and Extra Caramel Drizzle: Standard toppings for a classic cafe-style presentation.

Frappe vs. Frappuccino: A Name Game with Different Rules

The terms 'frappe' and 'Frappuccino' can be confusing. 'Frappuccino' is a Starbucks-trademarked term for their specific line of blended beverages. A 'frappe' is a more generic term for a blended iced drink. While a Caramel Frappuccino from Starbucks is guaranteed to contain coffee, a 'caramel frappe' from another cafe might not. Always ask the barista for clarification if you're concerned about caffeine content. For more information on the history and variations of blended drinks, see this explanation from BBC Good Food on what a frappe is: https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/howto/guide/how-make-frappe.

Comparison Table: Popular Caramel Frappes


Feature	Starbucks Caramel Frappuccino	McDonald's McCafé Caramel Frappé
Coffee Source	Coffee base	Coffee extract in base
Caffeine	Yes, contains significant caffeine (~90mg Grande)	Yes, contains caffeine from coffee extract
Non-Coffee Option	Yes, order a 'Crème Frappuccino'	Not a standard menu option; must ask for customization
Flavor Profile	Signature espresso roast blended with caramel	Blended caramel flavor with a 'hint of coffee'
Availability	All Starbucks locations	All McDonald's locations serving McCafé

Conclusion: Always Check Your Drink's Recipe

So, does a caramel frappe have any coffee in it? For the widely recognized, branded versions from Starbucks and McDonald's, the answer is a definitive yes, as they use a coffee base or extract. However, the generic term 'frappe' can be used for non-coffee drinks, and many coffee shops offer creme-based or customizable versions. If you are sensitive to caffeine or just prefer to avoid coffee, your best bet is to ask your barista about the specific ingredients or to inquire about a coffee-free, creme-based alternative. For homemade versions, you have total control over whether to add coffee or not, allowing you to enjoy the caramel flavor your way.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, not all frappes have coffee. While many popular chain versions do, the term 'frappe' simply means a blended iced drink. Many cafes and menus, like Starbucks' Crème Frappuccinos, offer non-coffee, non-caffeinated options.

The amount of caffeine varies by brand and size. For example, a Grande (medium) Caramel Frappuccino from Starbucks contains approximately 90mg of caffeine, while a McDonald's caramel frappe also contains a caffeinated coffee extract base.

Yes, it is possible. At Starbucks, you can order a Caramel Crème Frappuccino, which is made without coffee. For other coffee shops, you should ask if they have a non-coffee or decaf alternative available, as their standard recipes may differ.

Frappuccino is a trademarked term by Starbucks for their specific line of blended beverages. A frappe is a more general term for any blended iced drink. While both can be made with coffee, only a Frappuccino comes from Starbucks.

The standard McCafé Caramel Frappé at McDonald's is made with a coffee extract base and does contain caffeine. You should inquire with your local McDonald's to see if they can customize a coffee-free version, but it is not a standard menu item.

A caramel frappe has a noticeable coffee flavor, but it is often balanced by the sweetness of the caramel, sugar, and milk. The coffee taste is present but not as dominant as in a black coffee or pure espresso drink.

To make a caffeine-free caramel frappe at home, simply omit the coffee or espresso from any recipe. You can use extra milk, a decaffeinated coffee flavor syrup, or simply focus on the caramel, milk, and ice for a delicious blended treat.