What is the difference between a frappe and a milkshake?

A frappe is an iced, blended coffee drink typically made with instant coffee, milk, sugar, and ice, while a milkshake is a sweet, cold dessert beverage made from ice cream, milk, and flavorings like syrup or fruit.

Which is healthier, a frappe or a milkshake?

A frappe is generally healthier than a milkshake because it contains fewer calories and less sugar, as a milkshake's base of ice cream adds significant fat and calories, whereas a frappe relies on coffee and milk.

Can I use a milkshake recipe to make a frappe at home?

No, you cannot use a milkshake recipe to make a frappe because a milkshake requires ice cream as its primary base, while a frappe requires brewed or instant coffee, milk, and ice, producing a thinner, coffee-forward texture.

Is a frappe just a cold milkshake with coffee added?

No, a frappe is not just a cold milkshake with coffee added, because a traditional frappe is made with instant coffee, water, sugar, and milk, while a milkshake contains ice cream, making the frappe lighter and less creamy.

Which drink is better for a hot summer day, a frappe or a milkshake?

A frappe is better for a hot summer day than a milkshake because its coffee and ice content provides a refreshing, less heavy pick-me-up, whereas a milkshake's dense ice cream base can feel overly rich and filling in high heat.

What is the typical cost difference between buying a frappe and a milkshake?

The typical cost difference is small, with a frappe usually costing $4 to $6 and a milkshake costing $5 to $7 at cafés, though prices vary by location, brand, and added toppings like whipped cream or syrups.

Is it safe to drink a frappe or a milkshake if I am lactose intolerant?

It is not safe to drink a standard frappe or milkshake if you are lactose intolerant, because both contain milk, but you can request non-dairy alternatives like oat, almond, or soy milk to make them lactose-free.

Can I switch from drinking milkshakes to frappes without changing my caffeine intake?

No, you cannot switch from milkshakes to frappes without changing your caffeine intake, because a frappe contains coffee and typically delivers 60 to 150 milligrams of caffeine per serving, while a milkshake is caffeine-free unless you add coffee.

What is a common beginner mistake when making a frappe versus a milkshake?

A common beginner mistake when making a frappe is using hot coffee instead of chilled or instant coffee, which melts the ice and creates a watery drink, whereas a milkshake mistake is using melted ice cream, which ruins the thick, creamy texture.

Which drink is more versatile for customizing flavors, a frappe or a milkshake?

A milkshake is more versatile for customizing flavors than a frappe, because its neutral ice cream base pairs easily with fruits, candies, cookies, and syrups, while a frappe's coffee flavor limits additions to sweeteners, milk, and chocolate or caramel.

Difference Between

Difference Between Frappe and Milkshake

Written byNex Virox Team

Editorial Team

Reviewed byVarshal Nirbhavane

Senior SEO & Organic Growth Professional · 5+ years

Published: September 9, 202618 min read

Quick answer

The main difference between Frappe and Milkshake is that a frappe is a blended iced coffee drink made with instant coffee, water, sugar, and milk, while a milkshake is a sweet, cold dessert beverage made with ice cream, milk, and flavorings. Frappe is a caffeine-based, coffee-forward beverage served with ice, while Milkshake is a creamy, dessert-style drink that is typically thicker and richer.

Key takeaways

Core distinction: A frappe is a blended, iced coffee drink with a foamy top, while a milkshake is a sweet, dairy-based beverage made from ice cream and milk.
How each works: Frappes blend coffee, ice, and sweetener for a slushy texture; milkshakes churn ice cream and milk into a thick, creamy consistency.
Cost and effort: Frappes typically cost $4–$6 at cafés and require an espresso machine; milkshakes cost $3–$5 and need only a blender and ice cream.
Best-fit use case: Choose a frappe for a caffeinated afternoon pick-me-up; pick a milkshake for a dessert or a kid-friendly treat without caffeine.
Most common mistake: Assuming frappes contain ice cream—most are coffee-based, whereas milkshakes always use ice cream as the primary ingredient.

Table of Contents18 sections

Difference Between Frappe and Milkshake: Comparison Table

Aspect	Frappe	Milkshake
Definition	Iced, blended coffee drink with foam, often from a machine.	Sweet, cold beverage blending milk with ice cream or flavorings.
Primary Base	Uses instant coffee, water, sugar, and milk as core.	Starts with milk and typically adds ice cream for thickness.
Key Ingredient	Instant coffee granules or espresso shots define its flavor.	Ice cream or gelato provides the signature creamy richness.
Ice Content	Often blended with crushed ice, creating a slushy texture.	Uses ice cream, but rarely adds ice cubes to the mix.
Caffeine Presence	Contains caffeine from coffee, ranging from 50-200 mg per serving.	Typically caffeine-free unless coffee syrup or espresso is added.
Sweetness Level	Sweetened with sugar or syrup, but balanced by coffee bitterness.	Generally sweeter due to ice cream and added flavor syrups.
Texture Profile	Light, frothy, and airy with a foamy top layer.	Dense, smooth, and thick, often sipped slowly through a straw.
Serving Temperature	Served very cold, often with ice chunks for a frosty feel.	Cold but less icy, relying on frozen dairy for chill.
Origin History	Popularized in Greece and New England during the 1950s.	Emerged in late 19th-century America with malted milk shops.
Regional Popularity	Staple in Greek cafés, New England diners, and Middle Eastern shops.	Widely consumed in the US, UK, and Australia via fast-food chains.
Preparation Method	Shaken or blended in a mixer until foamy, often with a top.	Blended in a standard blender until smooth and pourable.
Glassware Used	Served in tall, clear glasses or plastic cups with a straw.	Presented in classic soda-fountain glasses or mason jars.
Topping Options	Often topped with whipped cream, chocolate dust, or syrup.	Garnished with whipped cream, sprinkles, or a cherry.
Caloric Range	Approximately 200-400 calories per 16-ounce serving.	Typically 300-600 calories per 16-ounce serving.
Protein Content	Provides around 5-8 grams of protein from milk.	Offers 8-12 grams of protein due to ice cream and milk.
Fat Content	Lower fat, around 5-10 grams, unless heavy cream is added.	Higher fat, ranging 10-20 grams from ice cream base.
Carbohydrate Load	Contains 30-50 grams of carbs from sugar and milk.	Has 40-70 grams of carbs, driven by ice cream and syrups.
Dietary Adaptability	Can be made with non-dairy milk and sugar-free syrups easily.	Harder to adapt; vegan versions require non-dairy ice cream.
Flavor Varieties	Limited to coffee, mocha, caramel, or vanilla profiles.	Extensive range: strawberry, chocolate, banana, mint, and more.
Customization Ease	Adjust coffee strength, sweetness, and milk type quickly.	Mix in cookies, fruits, or candy for personalized flavors.
Typical Occasions	Consumed as a morning pick-me-up or afternoon coffee break.	Enjoyed as a dessert, snack, or treat at casual gatherings.
Cultural Association	Linked with Greek coffee culture and New England beach towns.	Associated with American diners, drive-ins, and soda fountains.
Equipment Required	Needs a frappe mixer or shaker for proper frothing.	Requires a blender to combine ingredients smoothly.
Consistency Thickness	Thinner and more liquid, similar to a slushie or iced latte.	Thicker and spoonable, often requiring a wide straw.
Alcohol Addition	Rarely mixed with alcohol, staying a non-alcoholic beverage.	Can include liqueurs like Baileys or Kahlúa for adult versions.
Nutritional Focus	Often seen as a coffee substitute with moderate energy boost.	Viewed as an indulgent dessert with higher calorie density.
Seasonal Availability	Available year-round, especially popular in warm weather.	Year-round, but more frequently ordered during summer months.
Brand Examples	McCafé Frappé, Starbucks Frappuccino (similar but distinct).	Shake Shack, Five Guys, McDonald's, and local ice cream parlors.
Best-Fit Scenario	Ideal for coffee lovers seeking a cold, caffeinated refreshment.	Perfect for those craving a rich, sweet, dairy-based dessert drink.

What Is Frappe?

A frappe is a blended, iced beverage made from instant coffee, water, sugar, and milk, originating in Greece in 1957. It is defined by its thick, foamy top layer created by vigorous shaking or blending. Frappes exist to deliver a cold, caffeinated, and dessert-like refreshment.

Definition of Frappe

A frappe is a cold coffee drink produced by shaking or blending instant coffee, sugar, and water until frothy, then served over ice with milk. The defining trait is its stable, aerated foam head that separates from the liquid. Unlike brewed iced coffee, a frappe relies on mechanical agitation for texture.

Key Characteristics of Frappe

Characteristic	What It Means in Practice
Instant coffee base	Uses freeze-dried or spray-dried instant coffee granules, not espresso or brewed beans, for a distinct roasted flavor.
Foam layer	A thick, stable, cream-colored foam (1-2 cm) forms on top due to vigorous shaking in a cocktail shaker or mixer.
Ice integration	Ice cubes are added after shaking, so they melt slowly, keeping the drink cold without diluting the foam.
Sugar control	Sweetness is adjusted during shaking; the sugar dissolves into the foam, creating a balanced, syrupy body.
Milk optional	Served either "sketo" (no milk), "me gala" (with milk), or "me gala kai pagoto" (with milk and ice cream).
Serving temperature	Always served over ice in a tall glass, typically 300-400 ml, with a straw for sipping through the foam.
Shaker method	Traditional preparation uses a specialized shaker (frappier) for 30-60 seconds to achieve the signature froth.
Caffeine content	Contains roughly 60-120 mg of caffeine per serving, depending on the amount of instant coffee used (1-2 teaspoons).
Texture profile	Not blended with ice like a smoothie; it remains liquid with a separate foam head, not a slushy consistency.
Cultural origin	Invented at the 1957 International Trade Fair in Thessaloniki, Greece, by Nestlé representative Dimitris Vakondios.

Common Examples of Frappe

Greek Frappe - The original version using Nescafe Classic, sugar, and water, shaken until frothy and served with or without milk.
Frappe Cappuccino - A Greek frappe topped with a layer of frothed milk, mimicking a cappuccino's texture but served cold.
Caramel Frappe - A blended variation mixing instant coffee with caramel syrup, milk, and ice for a sweeter, dessert-like drink.
Vanilla Frappe - Adds vanilla extract or syrup to the base frappe, offering a milder, aromatic flavor profile without extra bitterness.
Frappe with Ice Cream - Known as "frappe me pagoto," this version adds a scoop of vanilla ice cream to the top for extra richness.
Chocolate Frappe - Blends cocoa powder or chocolate syrup with the coffee base, creating a mocha-style cold beverage.
Alcoholic Frappe - A modern twist adding a shot of Baileys, Kahlua, or whiskey to the classic frappe for an adult evening drink.
Frappe Freddo - A hybrid that uses a double shot of espresso shaken with ice and sugar, producing a similar foam but with a stronger coffee taste.
Vegan Frappe - Substitutes dairy milk with oat, almond, or soy milk, maintaining the foam using a plant-based milk with high protein content.
Decaf Frappe - Uses decaffeinated instant coffee, delivering the same frothy texture and flavor without the caffeine stimulation.

Advantages and Limitations of Frappe

Advantages	Limitations
Quick to prepare in under 3 minutes with just a shaker, instant coffee, and cold water.	Requires a shaker or electric mixer; a simple spoon stir will not produce the signature foam.
Highly customizable sweetness, milk type, and flavor syrups to match individual taste preferences.	Instant coffee's flavor is often perceived as harsher and less complex than freshly brewed espresso.
No special equipment like an espresso machine or blender is necessary for the classic version.	Foam collapses within 10-15 minutes, so it must be consumed quickly to maintain the intended texture.
Lower cost per serving compared to café-bought iced lattes, using inexpensive pantry staples.	High sugar content in standard preparation (2-4 teaspoons) makes it a calorie-dense treat, not a daily diet drink.
Provides a strong caffeine kick that is easily adjusted by adding more or less instant coffee powder.	Not suitable for those avoiding instant coffee due to its higher acrylamide content compared to fresh beans.
Refreshing and hydrating on hot days due to the large ice volume and slow melt rate.	Cannot be made ahead of time; the foam and ice separate after storage, ruining the presentation.
Gluten-free and naturally dairy-free when served without milk, fitting many dietary restrictions.	Texture is polarizing; some drinkers dislike the grainy instant coffee residue that settles at the bottom.
Portable and easy to replicate anywhere, as it only requires access to cold water and a sealed container.	Lacks the creamy, blended consistency of a milkshake-style frappe, which some users expect from the name.
Low acidity compared to hot brewed coffee, making it gentler on sensitive stomachs.	Not a traditional iced coffee; the instant coffee taste is a dealbreaker for specialty coffee enthusiasts.
Social and cultural appeal as a staple of Greek café culture, often enjoyed over long conversations.	Over-shaking creates excessive bitterness by over-extracting the coffee, requiring precise technique to avoid.

What Is Milkshake?

A milkshake is a sweet, cold beverage made by blending milk, ice cream, and flavorings like syrup or fruit. It is typically served thick with a straw and spoon, offering a rich, creamy treat that exists as a dessert drink.

Definition of Milkshake

A milkshake is a frothy, emulsion-based drink produced by mixing milk, ice cream, and sweeteners or flavor agents at high speed until aerated and thickened. It is traditionally served chilled in a tall glass, often topped with whipped cream, and consumed as a dessert or snack.

Key Characteristics of Milkshake

Characteristic	What It Means in Practice
Dairy base	Uses whole milk and ice cream, giving a creamy texture that a frappe lacks.
Thick consistency	Holds shape on a spoon, requiring a wide straw for sipping.
Cold serving	Served at 34-40°F, relying on frozen ice cream for chill, not added ice.
Sweet flavor profile	Relies on sugar syrups, candy, or fruit, making it a dessert rather than a coffee drink.
Blending method	Mixed in a blender or milkshake machine until smooth and aerated.
Whipped topping	Often crowned with whipped cream and a cherry, enhancing its treat status.
No coffee content	Contains zero caffeine unless coffee syrup is added, unlike a frappe.
Glass presentation	Served in a tall soda fountain glass, sometimes with a saucer.
Customizable mix-ins	Allows cookies, brownies, or peanut butter to be blended in for texture.
Caloric density	Ranges from 300-800 calories per 16-ounce serving, depending on add-ins.

Common Examples of Milkshake

Classic vanilla - The standard base, made with vanilla ice cream and milk, offering a pure, simple flavor.
Chocolate fudge - Blends chocolate syrup and ice cream, delivering a dense, cocoa-rich taste.
Strawberry - Uses fresh or frozen berries, giving a fruity, pink-colored option.
Oreo cookies and cream - Crushed chocolate sandwich cookies folded in, creating a crunchy texture.
Peanut butter cup - Mixes peanut butter with chocolate ice cream, balancing salty and sweet.
Banana - Adds ripe bananas for natural sweetness and a thicker body.
Caramel salted - Combines caramel sauce with a pinch of sea salt for a savory-sweet twist.
Mint chocolate chip - Features mint extract and chocolate bits, offering a refreshing, cool flavor.
Malt - Includes malted milk powder, adding a toasty, nutty depth.
Birthday cake - Blends cake pieces and sprinkles, mimicking a celebratory dessert.

Advantages and Limitations of Milkshake

Advantages	Limitations
Rich, indulgent flavor that satisfies dessert cravings.	High in sugar and fat, contributing to weight gain if consumed often.
Highly customizable with endless mix-in combinations.	Requires ice cream, so it cannot be made dairy-free without substitutes.
Provides calcium and protein from milk, supporting bone health.	Melts quickly at room temperature, losing texture within 15 minutes.
Easy to prepare at home with a basic blender.	Calorie count can exceed 800 per serving, making it a poor daily choice.
Appeals to all ages, from kids to adults.	Contains no caffeine, offering no energy boost for daytime consumption.
Can serve as a meal replacement for picky eaters.	Lactose intolerant individuals face digestive discomfort.
Offers a cold relief option on hot days.	Thick texture requires a spoon, making it less portable than a frappe.
Pairs well with burgers and fries in fast-food settings.	Artificial syrups in commercial versions lower nutritional value.
Creates a nostalgic soda fountain experience.	Blending aerates the mix, causing rapid volume loss if left standing.
Can be made alcohol-free for family-friendly events.	Not suitable for diabetics due to rapid glucose spike from sugars.

Similarities Between Frappe and Milkshake

Shared Aspect	How Frappe and Milkshake Are Alike
Core category	Frappe and milkshake are both blended cold beverages served in a tall glass.
Primary base	Both frappe and milkshake rely on milk as the foundational liquid ingredient.
Ice usage	Frappe and milkshake both incorporate crushed or cubed ice for chilling.
Blending method	Both frappe and milkshake require a high-speed electric blender for proper texture.
Flavor additions	Frappe and milkshake both accept syrups, extracts, or fruit purees for flavoring.
Sweetener profile	Both frappe and milkshake typically include sugar, honey, or artificial sweeteners.
Dairy variations	Frappe and milkshake both offer non-dairy alternatives like almond or oat milk.
Topping options	Both frappe and milkshake are commonly crowned with whipped cream.
Garnish choices	Frappe and milkshake both use chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or a cherry.
Serving temperature	Both frappe and milkshake are served immediately at near-freezing temperatures.
Straw requirement	Frappe and milkshake both need a thick straw due to their dense consistency.
Occasion fit	Both frappe and milkshake suit casual gatherings, desserts, or summer refreshment.
Cafe availability	Frappe and milkshake both appear on coffee shop and diner menus worldwide.
Customization level	Both frappe and milkshake allow infinite add-ins like cookies, nuts, or candy.
Texture goal	Frappe and milkshake both aim for a smooth, creamy, spoonable yet drinkable body.
Caloric range	Both frappe and milkshake typically deliver 300–600 calories per 16-ounce serving.
Prep time	Frappe and milkshake both take under five minutes from ingredients to glass.
Equipment cleanup	Both frappe and milkshake require immediate rinsing of the blender jar.
Seasonal appeal	Frappe and milkshake both peak in popularity during warm weather months.
Kid-friendly nature	Both frappe and milkshake appeal to children when made with mild flavors.
Adult variations	Frappe and milkshake both can include coffee liqueur or other spirits.
Protein boost	Both frappe and milkshake can be enriched with protein powder or nut butter.
Portion control	Frappe and milkshake both are typically served in 12–24 ounce portions.
Visual appeal	Both frappe and milkshake are presented with visible layered or swirled aesthetics.
Health perception	Frappe and milkshake are both viewed as indulgent treats rather than health foods.
Ingredient freshness	Both frappe and milkshake benefit from fresh milk and ripe fruit when used.
Cost range	Frappe and milkshake both cost $3–$7 at commercial outlets in 2024.
Home recipe ease	Both frappe and milkshake are simple to replicate with basic kitchen staples.
Allergen profile	Frappe and milkshake both commonly contain dairy, gluten (from syrups), and nuts.
Long-term trend	Frappe and milkshake both maintain steady demand as classic cold-drink staples.

Frappe or Milkshake: Which Should You Choose?

The decisive variable is caffeine: a frappe contains coffee, while a milkshake is caffeine-free. Choose a frappe for an energy boost or a milkshake for a pure, dessert-like treat.

When to Use Frappe

Choose Frappe when you need a cold, caffeinated pick-me-up. It suits morning or afternoon breaks, especially in warm weather. A frappe typically costs $4–$6, and it is ideal for coffee lovers seeking a blended, icy texture.

When to Use Milkshake

Choose Milkshake when you want a rich, sweet, dairy-based dessert drink. It fits post-dinner cravings or kid-friendly outings. A milkshake typically costs $4–$7, and it is perfect for those avoiding caffeine or preferring flavors like strawberry or chocolate.

Common Misconceptions About Frappe and Milkshake

Common Myth	The Reality
"A frappe and a milkshake are basically the same drink."	A frappe is iced, blended coffee, while a milkshake is a sweet, dairy-based dessert drink without coffee.
"Frappes always contain ice cream, just like milkshakes."	Traditional Greek frappes use instant coffee, water, and milk over ice, with no ice cream required.
"Milkshakes must contain coffee to be considered authentic."	Milkshakes are coffee-free by definition, relying on milk, ice cream, and flavor syrups for their base.
"The only difference between a frappe and a milkshake is the temperature."	Temperature is similar, but the core ingredients differ: coffee and ice versus milk and ice cream.
"Frappes are always served with whipped cream on top."	Whipped cream is optional; authentic Greek frappes are served plain with foam from shaking.
"Milkshakes are always thick enough to eat with a spoon."	Milkshake thickness varies by recipe; thin shakes are common in diners, while frappes stay slushy.
"A frappe is just a milkshake with espresso poured in."	Frappes blend coffee with ice and milk from the start, not adding espresso to an existing milkshake.
"Both drinks contain the same amount of caffeine."	Frappes contain 60-120 mg of caffeine per serving, while standard milkshakes contain zero caffeine.
"Milkshakes originated in Greece, just like frappes."	Frappes originated in Greece in 1957; milkshakes originated in the United States in the 1880s.
"You can swap a frappe for a milkshake in any recipe."	Swapping changes flavor and texture drastically because frappes are coffee-forward and milkshakes are dessert-sweet.
"Frappes are always made with espresso shots."	Classic frappes use instant coffee granules, not espresso, though modern cafés may add shots.
"Milkshakes are healthier than frappes because they lack coffee."	Milkshakes often have more sugar and fat; a 16-oz milkshake averages 500-800 calories versus a frappe's 300-500.
"The word 'frappe' means 'shaken' in French, so it's a milkshake."	'Frappe' means 'struck' or 'chilled' in French, but it specifically refers to iced coffee, not dairy shakes.
"All frappes are blended with ice cream for creaminess."	Many frappes use milk and ice only; creaminess comes from shaking or blending, not mandatory ice cream.
"Milkshakes can be served hot, just like a frappe."	Milkshakes are served cold by definition; frappes are also cold, but hot coffee drinks are separate categories.
"A frappe has more calories than a milkshake every time."	Calorie counts vary widely; a small black frappe can be 150 calories, while a large milkshake exceeds 1,000.
"Frappes and milkshakes use the exact same blending technique."	Frappes are shaken or blended briefly for a foamy top; milkshakes are blended longer for a smooth, thick texture.
"Milkshakes always contain malt powder, like a malted shake."	Malt powder is optional; a classic milkshake uses syrup, milk, and ice cream, without malt.
"Frappes are a type of milkshake sold at coffee shops."	Frappes are a distinct coffee beverage category; milkshakes are a dessert category, rarely sold at coffee counters.
"You can make a frappe by blending a milkshake with instant coffee."	That creates a coffee milkshake, not a frappe, because frappes use ice as the base, not ice cream.
"Both drinks are equally filling due to similar ingredient volumes."	Milkshakes are denser and higher in fat, making them more satiating; frappes are lighter and more hydrating.
"Frappes contain no dairy, while milkshakes always contain dairy."	Frappes can be made with milk or plant-based alternatives; milkshakes require dairy or dairy substitutes, but both vary.
"The color of a frappe is always brown, like coffee."	Frappes can be green (matcha), pink (strawberry), or white (vanilla) when flavored, not just coffee-brown.
"Milkshakes are always served in tall glasses with a straw."	Milkshakes are often served in tall glasses, but frappes are served in cups with lids, especially to-go.
"A frappe is a regional name for a milkshake in New England."	In New England, 'frappe' means a thick milkshake with ice cream, but globally it means iced coffee, causing confusion.
"Frappes are always caffeinated, while milkshakes are always caffeine-free."	Frappes are caffeinated unless decaf is used; milkshakes are caffeine-free unless coffee syrup is added.
"You can order a frappe at any diner that serves milkshakes."	Diners typically serve milkshakes but lack espresso machines or instant coffee, so frappes are rare outside cafés.
"Milkshakes are a healthier breakfast option than frappes."	Neither is a breakfast staple; frappes provide caffeine, but milkshakes offer more protein and calcium per serving.
"Frappes and milkshakes have identical sugar content per ounce."	Frappes average 10-15 grams of sugar per 8 oz, while milkshakes average 20-30 grams per 8 oz, nearly double.
"The only way to differentiate them is by taste, not ingredients."	Ingredients are definitive: coffee and ice define a frappe; milk and ice cream define a milkshake, with no overlap.

Conclusion

Difference Between Frappe and Milkshake comes down to coffee versus ice cream. A frappe blends instant coffee, milk, and ice for a caffeinated, frothy pick-me-up. A milkshake blends ice cream, milk, and syrup for a thick, sweet dessert. Choose a frappe for an energy boost; choose a milkshake for a creamy treat.

FAQs on Difference Between Frappe and Milkshake

What is the difference between a frappe and a milkshake?: A frappe is an iced, blended coffee drink typically made with instant coffee, milk, sugar, and ice, while a milkshake is a sweet, cold dessert beverage made from ice cream, milk, and flavorings like syrup or fruit.
Which is healthier, a frappe or a milkshake?: A frappe is generally healthier than a milkshake because it contains fewer calories and less sugar, as a milkshake's base of ice cream adds significant fat and calories, whereas a frappe relies on coffee and milk.
Can I use a milkshake recipe to make a frappe at home?: No, you cannot use a milkshake recipe to make a frappe because a milkshake requires ice cream as its primary base, while a frappe requires brewed or instant coffee, milk, and ice, producing a thinner, coffee-forward texture.
Is a frappe just a cold milkshake with coffee added?: No, a frappe is not just a cold milkshake with coffee added, because a traditional frappe is made with instant coffee, water, sugar, and milk, while a milkshake contains ice cream, making the frappe lighter and less creamy.
Which drink is better for a hot summer day, a frappe or a milkshake?: A frappe is better for a hot summer day than a milkshake because its coffee and ice content provides a refreshing, less heavy pick-me-up, whereas a milkshake's dense ice cream base can feel overly rich and filling in high heat.
What is the typical cost difference between buying a frappe and a milkshake?: The typical cost difference is small, with a frappe usually costing $4 to $6 and a milkshake costing $5 to $7 at cafés, though prices vary by location, brand, and added toppings like whipped cream or syrups.
Is it safe to drink a frappe or a milkshake if I am lactose intolerant?: It is not safe to drink a standard frappe or milkshake if you are lactose intolerant, because both contain milk, but you can request non-dairy alternatives like oat, almond, or soy milk to make them lactose-free.
Can I switch from drinking milkshakes to frappes without changing my caffeine intake?: No, you cannot switch from milkshakes to frappes without changing your caffeine intake, because a frappe contains coffee and typically delivers 60 to 150 milligrams of caffeine per serving, while a milkshake is caffeine-free unless you add coffee.
What is a common beginner mistake when making a frappe versus a milkshake?: A common beginner mistake when making a frappe is using hot coffee instead of chilled or instant coffee, which melts the ice and creates a watery drink, whereas a milkshake mistake is using melted ice cream, which ruins the thick, creamy texture.
Which drink is more versatile for customizing flavors, a frappe or a milkshake?: A milkshake is more versatile for customizing flavors than a frappe, because its neutral ice cream base pairs easily with fruits, candies, cookies, and syrups, while a frappe's coffee flavor limits additions to sweeteners, milk, and chocolate or caramel.