Learn how to make a refreshing Nescafe frappe at home using a blender and a handful of simple ingredients. This frothy iced coffee is ready in about five minutes and works with Nescafe Gold espresso powder or any instant coffee. It’s perfect for hot days and can be adjusted to suit your sweetness or milk preference.
I prefer black coffee with minimal sweeteners, so I appreciate that this frothy iced coffee can be made to suit any taste. Reduce or omit the sugar for a stronger, less sweet coffee flavor, or add a touch more if you like it sweeter. The blender produces a pleasant, slightly textured drink with small chunks of crushed ice — ideal for a quick, satisfying pick-me-up.
What is a Classic Greek Frappe?
A classic Greek frappe is a simple iced coffee made from instant coffee (such as Nescafe), water, ice, and milk, shaken or blended until frothy. It originated in Greece and became popular because it’s fast, refreshing, and requires minimal equipment. While a dedicated frappe shaker or handheld mixer works well, a regular countertop blender does a great job and creates a nicely crushed ice texture.
Ingredients
Below are the ingredients for a single serving. Adjust quantities to make more servings.
- 1–2 tablespoons granulated sugar (1½ tablespoons is a good starting point)
- 1 teaspoon Nescafe instant espresso powder (or any instant coffee)
- 1 tablespoon boiling water
- About 10 ice cubes
- 1/3 cup cold milk (2% recommended, or your preferred milk)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Recipe Summary
- Yield: 1 serving
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Total time: 5 minutes
Instructions
- In the blender, combine the instant espresso powder, granulated sugar, and the tablespoon of boiling water. Secure the lid and blend briefly until the powder and sugar dissolve and form a frothy mixture.
- Add the ice cubes to the blender. Secure the lid again and pulse until the ice is crushed into medium-sized chunks — not completely slushy unless you prefer it smoother.
- Pour in the milk and add the vanilla extract if using. Pulse a few more times until everything is well combined and the texture reaches your preference.
- Pour the frappe into a tall glass or cappuccino mug. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Step-by-Step Photos
Substitutions and Tips
- Instant coffee: Any brand of instant coffee can be used if you don’t have Nescafe. A teaspoon of instant espresso or strong instant coffee yields similar flavor.
- Milk alternatives: Substitute heavy cream for a richer, creamier result, or use oat milk, almond milk, or another non-dairy option to suit dietary preferences.
- Sweetener options: Swap granulated sugar for a liquid sweetener (honey, maple syrup, or simple syrup) but remember that liquid sweeteners will change the liquid balance slightly.
- Presentation: Top with whipped cream and a light drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for a café-style treat. Serve with a straw so you can stir as you sip.
Special Equipment
This recipe requires only a blender and a way to heat water. A standard countertop blender works well; a handheld frother or shaker can be used for a slightly different texture but is not required.
Other Refreshing Drink Ideas
If you enjoy this frappe, try other blended coffee or cocoa drinks for variety. Frozen hot chocolate or a simple iced latte are easy to make with the same basic approach: blending a concentrate, ice, and milk to taste.
If you try this recipe, adjust the sugar and milk to suit your taste and enjoy a homemade iced coffee that’s faster and less expensive than most coffee-shop options.
