Yes, Oreo Frappes Have Caffeine: What You Need to Know

October 21, 2025 •

3 min read

The modern blended frappe, distinct from its traditional instant-coffee Greek counterpart invented in 1957, often contains caffeine sourced from coffee concentrate. When it comes to the popular Oreo frappe, particularly at places like McDonald's, the answer is a definitive yes, these drinks do have caffeine.

Quick Summary

Oreo frappes from major chains contain caffeine because they are made with a coffee or coffee-based mix. The exact amount varies by brand and size, though caffeine-free versions can often be customized.

Key Points

Yes, they contain caffeine: Commercially prepared Oreo frappes from chains like McDonald's are made with a coffee base that includes caffeine.
Source of caffeine: The caffeine comes from a coffee extract or brewed coffee concentrate mixed into the frappe base.
Varying caffeine levels: The amount of caffeine is not standard and can differ significantly based on the brand, serving size, and specific recipe.
Starbucks customization: While Starbucks doesn't have an official "Oreo frappe," custom orders like the Mocha Cookie Crumble are caffeinated, but a crème-based version can be requested for a caffeine-free option.
Control homemade content: When making an Oreo frappe at home, you have complete control over the caffeine content by choosing whether to include coffee, instant coffee, or espresso.
Not always a strong effect: Some people report feeling a minimal caffeine effect from commercial frappes, which might be due to the lower concentration compared to black coffee.

Do Oreo Frappes Have Caffeine? The Definitive Guide

The short answer is yes, Oreo frappes typically contain caffeine. The exact amount and source, however, depend on where you purchase the drink, as the term 'frappe' can refer to a variety of blended beverages. While the name suggests a sweet, dessert-like treat, most commercial versions include a coffee component that provides a notable caffeine kick.

Caffeine in McDonald's McCafé Oreo Frappé

McDonald's McCafé Oreo Frappé, a popular choice for many, definitely includes caffeine. The source of the caffeine is the brand's signature "Mocha Coffee Frappé Base," which contains coffee extract. While the company's US website does not explicitly publish the caffeine content, consistent reports and customer service estimates from various sources indicate specific ranges based on size.

It is important to note that the exact formula can vary by country. For example, the McDonald's UK website provides more specific details on the caffeine range for their iced frappe drinks, confirming the coffee content. The level of caffeine in these drinks is generally lower per ounce than in a standard cup of coffee, but the total amount in a large serving can still be significant.

How About an Oreo Frappe from Starbucks?

Starbucks does not offer an official "Oreo Frappe" on its menu, as the drink is a trademarked item from their competitor. However, a customer can order a custom drink often referred to as the "Oreo Frappuccino" by requesting a Mocha Cookie Crumble Frappuccino. This is the closest approximation and it is made with Starbucks' Frappuccino Roast coffee, which contains a standard amount of caffeine.

Another option is the Cookies & Cream Frappuccino, which is also a custom order and includes Frappuccino Roast coffee, making it a caffeinated choice. For those who want the cookie flavor without the coffee, Starbucks offers crème-based Frappuccinos. These versions are made without coffee and are caffeine-free, offering a perfect alternative for children or those sensitive to caffeine.

Homemade Oreo Frappes

When making an Oreo frappe at home, the caffeine content is entirely up to the person preparing it. Many recipes, including those inspired by major chains, call for brewed coffee, instant coffee powder, or espresso.

Here are some common ingredients used in homemade Oreo frappe recipes:

Strong brewed coffee or espresso: Adds a potent, traditional coffee flavor and caffeine boost.
Instant coffee granules: A quick and easy way to add coffee and caffeine, similar to the original Greek frappe.
Coffee extract: Mimics the base flavor used in commercial frappes but offers very minimal caffeine content, if any.
Coffee-free base: For a caffeine-free version, the recipe can simply omit the coffee ingredients, relying on the cookies and other flavorings for taste.

Comparative Caffeine Levels

The following table provides a comparison of estimated caffeine levels in popular blended coffee drinks. The values are approximate and can vary based on preparation.


Drink (Source)	Estimated Caffeine (Small)	Estimated Caffeine (Medium/Grande)	Estimated Caffeine (Large/Venti)
McDonald's McCafé Frappé	75 mg	85-130 mg	130-180 mg
Starbucks Mocha Cookie Crumble Frappuccino	85 mg	110 mg	135 mg
Homemade Oreo Frappe (with brewed coffee)	95 mg (approx)	-	-

Note: Caffeine levels can fluctuate based on specific ingredients and recipe variations.

Conclusion: Understand Your Drink

In summary, if you are ordering a frappe with coffee at a major fast-food chain like McDonald's or a coffee-based Frappuccino at Starbucks, it will contain caffeine. For those who need or prefer to avoid caffeine, it is crucial to either order a non-coffee-based version (like a Starbucks crème Frappuccino) or to specify your request when ordering. For homemade versions, the caffeine content is easily controlled by the ingredients used. Always clarify with the barista if you are concerned about the caffeine content in your blended beverage.

For more detailed nutritional information, including caffeine, for some McDonald's offerings in the UK, you can visit their help and FAQ section: McDonald's UK Help.

Frequently Asked Questions

The exact amount of caffeine is not publicly disclosed on the US McDonald's website. However, reports suggest it is approximately 75 mg for a small, 85-130 mg for a medium, and up to 180 mg for a large.

Yes, it is possible. You can order a Starbucks crème-based Frappuccino and add cookie pieces for a caffeine-free option. For homemade versions, simply omit any coffee or instant coffee from the recipe.

Starbucks does not have an official 'Oreo frappe,' but you can order a custom 'Oreo Frappuccino.' The closest standard menu item is the Mocha Cookie Crumble Frappuccino, which contains caffeine.

No, the coffee flavor is often quite subtle. Commercial frappes typically use a coffee base or coffee extract, which is milder than brewed coffee, and the flavor is often masked by the chocolate and cookie flavoring.

Not all frappes contain coffee. Some variations, like Starbucks' crème-based Frappuccinos, are made without any coffee. The original Greek frappe uses instant coffee, but modern versions vary by vendor.

No, the caffeine concentration in a frappe is generally lower per ounce than in a standard brewed coffee. However, larger frappe sizes can still contain a significant amount of total caffeine.

To make a caffeine-free Oreo frappe at home, blend together milk, vanilla ice cream, Oreo cookies, and ice. You can add vanilla extract or chocolate syrup for extra flavor but should omit any coffee or instant coffee.