Save This iced mocha frappe is pure bliss for coffee lovers on a hot afternoon The swirl of whipped cream and the bite of espresso beans create a blend of rich chocolate flavors and chilly refreshment that feels like a special treat while still coming together in minutes
I started making this when my local cafe closed and soon my friends started asking for my version Whenever I break out the espresso beans the whole house gets excited
Ingredients
- Strong brewed coffee: brings real robust coffee flavor so pick your favorite blend or cold brew and let it fully chill
- Milk: provides creamy body and you can swap for dairy or your favorite plant based kind just choose a full bodied oat or almond for good creaminess
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: gives deep chocolate flavor opt for a rich Dutch process cocoa for the most decadent finish
- Granulated sugar or sweetener: for perfect sweetness adjust to taste or try coconut sugar for a hint of caramel
- Ice cubes: for the signature cold frothy blend use clear fresh ice for the best texture
- Whipped cream: adds that luscious velvety topper homemade or store bought both work
- Chocolate syrup: is optional but adds extra chocolate flair and lovely presentation
- Chocolate covered espresso beans: offer a crunchy pick me up on top look for glossy fresh beans and roughly chop for better sprinkling
Instructions
- Brew and Chill:
- Make a batch of strong coffee using your favorite method and let it cool completely Chilling ensures your frappe stays icy and not watered down
- Blend the Frappe:
- In a blender combine the cooled coffee milk cocoa powder sugar and ice cubes Blend on high until the mixture looks thick silky and completely smooth with no big ice chunks
- Pour and Top:
- Divide the frappe evenly between two tall glasses You want lots of height for those lovely layers Swirl a generous amount of whipped cream on top
- Add the Finishing Touches:
- If using drizzle with chocolate syrup for extra richness Sprinkle each glass with chopped chocolate covered espresso beans so you get a bit of crunch and coffee flavor in each sip
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Pop in a sturdy straw and add a spoon so you can scoop up all the toppings Enjoy immediately for the perfect frosty café style treat
Save One of my favorite parts is picking out the espresso beans to sprinkle on top My brother and I used to compete over who could find the biggest chunk in our glasses and now I pass that on with my own kids
Storage tips
Frappe drinks are best enjoyed as soon as they are blended since the ice will start to melt and water everything down If you have to prep ahead blend the base and chill in the fridge before blending with ice just before serving Whipped cream and toppings are always best added right before drinking
Ingredient substitutions
If you do not have chocolate covered espresso beans chocolate chips or chocolate covered almonds work well for a crunch Cold brew concentrate gives a stronger coffee kick if desired Any favorite milk can step in If you like things extra rich try half and half
Serving suggestions
Turn this into dessert by topping with brownie bites or shaved dark chocolate Serve in mason jars for a fun twist or double up for a party pitcher and serve in little glasses with cute straws
Cultural and historical context
Inspired by classic coffeehouse mocha beverages the frappe is a beloved summer drink in Greece and globally Variations pop up everywhere from American diners to Asian bubble tea shops with espresso and cream
Seasonal adaptations
Use cinnamon or pumpkin spice in fall to warm up the flavors Try peppermint syrup during the winter holidays for a festive twist Drop in a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a sundae like summer treat
Success Stories
My neighbor made this with decaf so the kids could have their own fancy frappe and they declared it the best treat of the summer My cousin uses coconut whipped cream to keep it vegan and it is always the first thing gone at our backyard parties
Freezer Meal Conversion
You can freeze coffee in ice cube trays and use those instead of plain ice when blending for even better texture and flavor boost Leftover blended frappe can be poured into popsicle molds for homemade coffee pops
Save Make this iced mocha frappe your own and enjoy a cool coffee treat any time the craving strikes
Recipe FAQ
- → How strong should the coffee be for this drink?
For a bold flavor, use strong brewed coffee or cold brew concentrate. Adjust strength to taste preference.
- → Can I use non-dairy milk?
Yes, oat, almond, or soy milk work well and maintain a creamy consistency in the frappe.
- → Are there alternatives to espresso beans?
Chopped chocolate-covered almonds can replace espresso beans for a sweet, crunchy topping.
- → Can I make this without a blender?
While a blender creates the best frothy texture, you can vigorously shake ingredients with ice for a smooth result.
- → What’s the best way to serve this drink?
Pour into tall glasses, top generously with whipped cream, chocolate syrup, and chopped espresso beans. Serve with a straw and spoon.