A Brief History: From Greek Accident to Global Sensation
The story of the frappe as we know it begins not in a modern cafe, but by a poolside at the 1957 Thessaloniki International Fair in Greece. A Nestlé representative, Dimitris Vakondios, needed to make instant coffee but had no hot water. Improvised ingenuity led him to mix instant coffee with cold water and ice in a shaker, creating a frothy, chilled drink. The invention was a resounding success, and the Greek instant-coffee frappe became a hallmark of Greek coffee culture. This original version traditionally consists of instant coffee, water, and sugar, shaken to create a thick foam, with optional milk.
The Evolution of the Frappe
While the original Greek version is coffee-based, the term 'frappe' itself is a French word meaning 'chilled' or 'beaten,' referring to the drink's blended consistency. As the concept spread globally, the ingredients and preparation evolved far beyond instant coffee. Modern frappes in many regions, especially in the United States, are often blended drinks that may feature a wide range of ingredients, from flavored syrups and ice cream to fruit juice or chocolate, proving that the beverage is no longer exclusively a coffee drink.
Frappe vs. Frappuccino: Understanding the Distinction
A key source of confusion comes from the trademarked name 'Frappuccino,' which was acquired by Starbucks in the mid-1990s. While a Frappuccino is a type of frappe, not all frappes are Frappuccinos. This distinction is crucial for understanding the coffee content.
- Frappuccino: Starbucks' proprietary, blended iced drink. It comes in both coffee-based varieties (using 'Frappuccino roast,' a concentrated instant coffee) and creme-based varieties (coffee-free).
- Frappe: A general term for a blended iced drink, which can contain coffee, instant coffee, or no coffee at all. The ingredients vary significantly depending on the recipe and where it is being served.
Coffee vs. Creme: A Comparison of Frappe Types
Most modern coffee shops, including Starbucks, categorize their blended drinks into two main groups based on their core ingredients:
Coffee-Based Frappes
These are the classic, caffeinated versions that most people think of when they hear 'frappe.' They contain coffee, either in the form of espresso, instant coffee, or a concentrated coffee base, mixed with milk, flavorings, and ice. Examples include:
- Mocha Frappe
- Caramel Frappe
- Java Chip Frappe
Creme-Based Frappes
Specifically designed for those who want to avoid coffee, these are made with a non-coffee base (often milk or a milky substitute), flavorings, and ice. They offer the same blended, frosty texture without the caffeine kick. Popular options include:
- Vanilla Bean Creme Frappe
- Strawberry Creme Frappe
- Double Chocolaty Chip Frappe
Regional Variations and the Milkshake Connection
The perception of a frappe is heavily influenced by geography. In some parts of the world, the term has an entirely different meaning.
- New England (USA): A 'frappe' (pronounced 'frap') is a thick milkshake made with ice cream, milk, and flavored syrup. Coffee is only included if it is the requested flavor. This is a common point of confusion for tourists.
- France: Historically, a 'café frappé' might refer to chilled coffee with ice cream.
Comparison: Frappe vs. Frappuccino vs. New England 'Frappe'
| Feature | Traditional Greek Frappe | Starbucks Frappuccino | New England 'Frappe' | Non-Coffee Frappe (Creme) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Contains Coffee? | Yes, instant coffee. | Sometimes, in coffee-based versions. | No, typically a milkshake. | No. |
| Preparation | Shaken to create foam. | Blended until smooth. | Blended with ice cream. | Blended until smooth. |
| Base Ingredient | Instant coffee, water. | Coffee roast or creme base. | Ice cream, milk. | Milk or dairy alternative. |
| Texture | Frothy foam over iced liquid. | Creamy, smoothie-like consistency. | Thick and rich. | Creamy, smoothie-like consistency. |
Ordering and Customization
When ordering a blended drink, especially if you want to avoid coffee, it's essential to be specific. Here are some tips:
- Specify "Creme-Based": At Starbucks, always request the "Crème" version of a Frappuccino. For example, order a "Caramel Ribbon Crunch Crème Frappuccino" instead of the standard version.
- Ask Your Barista: If you are unsure, simply ask your barista if the drink contains coffee. They can guide you to a coffee-free option.
- Look for Descriptive Names: Many local coffee shops will use names like "Creme" or refer to non-coffee versions with flavor names like "Vanilla Bean Frappe".
Conclusion: The Final Verdict on Coffee in Frappes
No, all frappes do not contain coffee. The term encompasses a broad family of iced, blended drinks. While the original Greek version relies on instant coffee, modern interpretations and creme-based varieties are designed to be entirely coffee-free, offering a delicious and frosty experience without the caffeine. Whether you prefer the traditional kick of instant coffee or a sweet, creamy alternative, the frappe's versatility ensures there's a version for every preference. For more delicious, coffee-free options, you can explore other recipes like those on BBC Good Food.
