Origins and History: A Tale of Two Drinks
To understand if frappe is the same as a Frappuccino, one must journey back to their very different beginnings. The original frappé was born in Greece in 1957 when a Nestlé representative improvised with instant coffee, cold water, sugar, and ice. This simple, frothy drink quickly became a Greek favorite.
The Frappuccino has a more modern, commercial history. The name combines "frappe" (a New England term for milkshake) and "cappuccino". It was first created in the early 1990s at The Coffee Connection in Boston. Starbucks bought the chain and the Frappuccino name in 1994, launching its version globally the following year.
Ingredients and Preparation Methods
The core ingredients and preparation also differ. The traditional frappé uses instant coffee and is shaken, while the Frappuccino features complex flavorings and is blended.
The Authentic Greek Frappe
Making a genuine frappé involves shaking ingredients to create foam, known as afrogala. The steps include combining instant coffee (traditionally Nescafé), sugar, and a little cold water in a shaker. After shaking vigorously, the mixture is poured into a glass over ice, with more cold water and optional milk added.
The Starbucks Frappuccino
Starbucks Frappuccinos are made by precisely blending ingredients. They use a coffee concentrate (or a non-coffee crème base), milk, and a special syrup, which are blended with ice until smooth. A wide range of syrups and add-ins are available, and the drink is typically topped with whipped cream.
The Trademark: Ownership and Terminology
A key difference is the Frappuccino trademark, owned exclusively by Starbucks. This means only Starbucks can use this name. The term "frappe" is generic and used by other shops, like McDonald's, for their blended iced coffees, which are often similar to Frappuccinos rather than the traditional Greek version.
Comparison Table: Frappe vs. Frappuccino
| Feature | Greek Frappe | Starbucks Frappuccino |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Greece, 1957, invented by Dimitris Vakondios | Boston, 1992, trademark acquired by Starbucks in 1994 |
| Trademark | Generic term, not trademarked | Trademarked brand name, exclusively owned by Starbucks |
| Primary Coffee | Instant coffee granules | Coffee concentrate (or crème base) |
| Preparation | Shaken vigorously to create foam | Blended with ice until smooth |
| Texture | Distinct, layered drink with foam on top | Uniform, thick, and slushy |
| Sweetness | Adjustable with sugar | Pre-formulated for high sweetness; often includes high-sugar syrups |
| Toppings | Traditionally minimal, maybe a splash of milk | Typically topped with whipped cream, syrups, and other garnishes |
| Variations | Simple variations with sugar and milk | Wide variety of flavors, add-ins, and customizations |
| Availability | Served in many cafes globally; generic versions widely available | Exclusively at Starbucks locations |
Conclusion: More Than Just a Name
Frappé and Frappuccino are not the same. The Greek frappé is a simple, historical classic based on instant coffee and shaking, while the Frappuccino is a modern, complex, blended dessert-like drink tied to Starbucks. The trademark distinction is crucial, leading other companies to use the generic "frappe" name for similar beverages. The choice between them depends on whether you prefer a traditional coffee taste or a sweet, blended treat.
Make Your Own Frappe or Frappuccino at Home
Making these drinks at home is simple. For a Greek-style frappé, shake instant coffee, sugar, and cold water to make foam, then pour over ice and add water or milk. For a Frappuccino-style drink, blend cooled strong coffee or espresso with milk, sugar, ice, and flavorings like chocolate or caramel, then top with whipped cream. For more detailed instructions, you can find guides online, such as the Food Network's.
The Commercialization of Iced Coffee
Iced and blended coffee has become increasingly commercialized, largely influenced by Starbucks' Frappuccino, transforming them into dessert beverages. The Frappuccino, with its many flavors and high-calorie ingredients, appeals to a broad audience. Other brands like McDonald's offer similar drinks under the "frappe" name. This evolution can be confusing, but understanding the drinks' origins helps clarify the differences.
Flavor Profile and Customization
The flavor profiles are another key difference. A traditional frappé highlights the bold taste of instant coffee with a layered texture, with customization mainly limited to sweetness and milk. Frappuccinos are typically sweeter and creamier, often with flavorings that can mask the coffee taste. Starbucks offers extensive customization options, including various syrups, drizzles, and add-ins, catering to those who prefer a dessert experience.
Frappe in New England vs. Greece
It's important to note that in New England, "frappe" historically referred to a thick milkshake with ice cream. This regional term likely influenced the creation of the original blended coffee drink that became the Frappuccino. This adds another layer to the term's meaning, although the Greek and Starbucks versions are the most prominent today.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a frappe is not the same as a Frappuccino. A frappe is a generic term for a style of iced coffee with regional variations, including the traditional Greek version. A Frappuccino is a trademarked, blended beverage exclusive to Starbucks. Recognizing these distinctions helps you choose the drink that best suits your preference.
Visit a guide on homemade Frappuccinos for more ideas on creating your own blended iced drinks.
The Frappe and Frappuccino on the Global Stage
The frappé is a significant part of Greek culture, especially in summer, representing a social coffee experience. Its simplicity makes it a cafe staple. The Frappuccino, through Starbucks' marketing, is a global trend. Its variations and seasonal releases maintain its popularity year-round. This contrast between a cultural institution and a commercial trend highlights the core differences.
