The Greek frappé is more than just an iced coffee—it’s a cultural icon.
Invented in Greece, this refreshing drink is loved for its creamy foam and bold coffee flavor.
It’s especially popular during summer, offering the perfect balance of coolness and caffeine.
With just a few simple ingredients and a quick prep time, you can enjoy this frothy delight right at home.
Here’s how!
How to Make a Greek Frappé: At A Glance
- Mix 2 tsp instant coffee, sugar (optional), and 3 tbsp cold water in a shaker or jar.
- Shake or blend until thick, creamy foam forms.
- Pour foam into a tall glass.
- Add 3–4 ice cubes and fill with cold water.
- Optionally, add 1–2 tbsp milk for creaminess.
- Stir gently, insert a straw, and enjoy!
History of the Greek Frappé
The Greek frappé was created by accident in 1957 during the Thessaloniki International Fair.
Dimitris Vakondios, a representative for Nescafé, was searching for a quick way to prepare his coffee.
Without access to hot water, he mixed instant coffee, sugar, and cold water in a shaker.
The result was a frothy, iced coffee that quickly gained popularity.
Over time, this simple yet innovative drink became a staple of Greek coffee culture.
It is now synonymous with leisurely afternoons at cafés and gatherings with friends.
The frappé’s accessibility, refreshing qualities, and ability to be customized have cemented its place as a beloved tradition in Greece and beyond.
What is a Greek Frappé?
A Greek frappé is a foam-topped iced coffee that combines simplicity with bold flavor.
It is made using instant coffee, cold water, and sugar, with the option to add milk for a creamier taste.
The defining feature of the frappé is its thick, velvety foam, created by vigorously shaking or blending the coffee and water.
This foam gives the drink its signature texture and visual appeal, making it stand out from other iced coffees.
Served over ice in a tall glass, the frappé is a refreshing drink that is both easy to prepare and highly customizable to suit individual tastes.
Ingredients Needed
To make a Greek frappé, you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients:
- Instant Coffee: 2 teaspoons (traditionally Nescafé for the best foam).
- Cold Water: 3 tablespoons for mixing, plus enough to fill the glass (about 250 ml or 8.5 fl oz).
- Sugar (Optional): 1–4 teaspoons, depending on your preferred sweetness:
- 1 teaspoon for medium sweetness (Métrios).
- 2–4 teaspoons for a sweeter frappé (Glykós).
- Ice Cubes: 3–4 cubes to keep the drink chilled.
- Milk or Evaporated Milk (Optional): 1–2 tablespoons for added creaminess.
Equipment Required
To prepare a Greek frappé, you’ll need the following tools:
- A Tall Glass: For serving the frappé and accommodating the foam and ice.
- A Teaspoon: To measure the coffee, sugar, and water accurately.
- A Shaker, Electric Milk Frother, or Blender: These tools are essential for creating the frappé’s signature thick and creamy foam. A shaker works well for a more hands-on approach, while an electric frother or blender offers quicker and more consistent results.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Follow these simple steps to prepare a classic Greek frappé:
- Combine the Ingredients: Add 2 teaspoons of instant coffee, your desired amount of sugar (1–4 teaspoons), and about 3 tablespoons of cold water into a shaker, electric frother, or mixing glass. The water should just cover the coffee and sugar.
- Create the Foam: Vigorously shake the mixture in the shaker or blend it with an electric frother until a thick, creamy foam forms. This should take around 30–60 seconds.
- Pour the Foam: Transfer the foamy mixture into a tall glass.
- Add Ice: Place 3–4 ice cubes into the glass to keep the drink chilled.
- Top Up with Water and Milk: Fill the rest of the glass with cold water. Add 1–2 tablespoons of milk or evaporated milk if you prefer a creamier frappé.
- Serve: Insert a straw, give the drink a gentle stir to combine the layers, and serve immediately.
Customizing Your Frappé
The beauty of a Greek frappé lies in its flexibility, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences.
Sweetness levels are a key part of customization:
- Skétos (Plain): Made without any sugar, this option highlights the bold, slightly bitter taste of coffee.
- Métrios (Medium Sweet): Add 1–2 teaspoons of sugar for a balanced sweetness that doesn’t overpower the coffee’s flavor.
- Glykós (Sweet): For a sweeter experience, use 2–4 teaspoons of sugar, doubling the coffee’s intensity with a rich, sugary profile.
You can also choose to add milk (me gála) for a creamier texture and a smoother taste.
A splash of evaporated milk adds richness and depth, while regular milk or non-dairy alternatives, like almond or oat milk, create a lighter, more refreshing finish.
Tips for the Perfect Frappé
Use Spray-Dried Instant Coffee
For the best foam consistency, always use spray-dried instant coffee.
This type of coffee dissolves easily in cold water and creates a thick, stable foam.
While Nescafé is the traditional choice, any high-quality instant coffee can work well as long as it’s spray-dried.
Always Use Cold Water
Cold water is essential for forming the frappé’s signature creamy foam.
Using warm or hot water can interfere with the frothing process and result in a less stable foam.
For the best results, make sure the water is chilled before mixing.
Customize to Your Taste
Experimentation is key to crafting your perfect frappé.
Start by adjusting the amount of coffee to suit your preferred strength.
If you like a bolder flavor, add an extra teaspoon of coffee.
Similarly, test different sugar levels to find the right balance of sweetness, whether you prefer plain, moderately sweet, or very sweet.
Small adjustments can make a big difference, so don’t hesitate to tweak the recipe to match your preferences.
Variations and Additions
Add Flavored Syrups
Transform your Greek frappé by introducing flavored syrups like vanilla, caramel, or chocolate.
Just a small drizzle of syrup can elevate the drink, adding a new layer of sweetness and aroma.
These flavors pair beautifully with the rich coffee base, making your frappé feel like a café-style treat.
Top with Whipped Cream or Cocoa Powder
For an indulgent twist, top your frappé with a dollop of whipped cream.
This adds a creamy richness that contrasts perfectly with the coffee’s bold flavor.
You can also sprinkle a pinch of cocoa powder, cinnamon, or even grated chocolate on top for a decorative and flavorful finish.
Add Vanilla Ice Cream
If you’re in the mood for something more decadent, try adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream to your frappé.
This turns the drink into a dessert-like experience, blending the creamy sweetness of the ice cream with the strong coffee flavor.
As the ice cream melts, it enriches the drink and creates a luscious texture.
Conclusion
Making a Greek frappé at home is a simple way to enjoy a taste of Greece.
With just a few ingredients and a quick prep, you can create a refreshing, frothy coffee that’s perfect for any occasion.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with sweetness levels, milk options, or flavor additions to make it your own.
Give it a try, and bring a little bit of Greece into your day!
FAQs
Can I use decaffeinated instant coffee?
Yes, decaffeinated instant coffee works for a Greek frappé.
However, the foam may be slightly less stable compared to regular instant coffee.
Is it necessary to use Nescafé brand coffee?
While Nescafé is the traditional choice for its ability to create thick foam, any high-quality instant coffee can be used to achieve similar results.
Can I prepare a frappé without a frother or shaker?
Yes, you can use a tightly sealed jar to shake the mixture vigorously until it becomes frothy.
It’s an easy alternative if you don’t have specialized equipment.
