Iced coffee is more than just a summertime staple. We all know coffee is necessary, but what about adding some pizzazz to our caffeine routine? Enter: the frappe. But what is a frappe, really? And how did it come to be? Let's dive into the history of this iced coffee dream.
The frappe originally hails from Greece, where it was created by a Nescafé representative in the 1950s as a way to increase the country's coffee sales. The drink was a blend of instant coffee, sugar, and cold water, shaken over ice until frothy. It quickly became a hit in Greece and throughout Europe, but it wasn't until the late 1990s that the frappe became popular in America.
The American version of the frappe includes espresso shots, milk, and flavored syrups, blended together with ice until smooth. It’s commonly topped with whipped cream or drizzled with syrup for a sweet, indulgent treat. The frappe has a unique texture compared to other iced coffee beverages - it’s thicker and creamier, with a blended, almost milkshake-like consistency.
But what makes the frappe so special? It's all in the method. The combination of coffee, ice, and milk creates a delightful sensation as smooth as silk. It's no wonder it became so popular - who wouldn't love a refreshing iced coffee beverage that tastes like a dessert?
Fun fact: in Australia, a frappe is known as a “yannoh,” which sounds like a combination of yawn and "no," but it's actually short for "organic, non-harmful organic health."
The frappe might seem like a modern invention, but it actually has quite a history. From Greece to America, this iced coffee treat has taken the world by storm. With its unique flavor, texture, and endless customization options, it's no surprise that it's a go-to warm-weather beverage. So go ahead, order that frappe and raise a glass (or should I say cup) to the magic that is blended coffee. Cheers!
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frapp%C3%A9_coffee#:~:text=The%20frapp%C3%A9%20was%20invented%20through,postwar%20outdoor%20Greek%20coffee%20culture
https://chefd.com/what-is-frappe/#:~:text=In%20contrast%2C%20a%20Frappuccino%20is,like%20almonds%20for%20added%20texture
https://greekreporter.com/2022/07/12/frappe-the-history-of-coffee-that-greeks-are-obsessed-with/