Vanilla Bean Cold Brew Frappe

Name: Vanilla Bean Cold Brew Frappe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cold brew coffee; 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy); 2 tablespoons vanilla bean paste; 1 cup ice; 2 tablespoons sweetener (sugar, honey, or syrup, optional); Whipped cream for topping (optional)

Highlighted under: Everyday Baking Recipes

I absolutely love treating myself to a refreshing Vanilla Bean Cold Brew Frappe on warm afternoons. This drink combines the robust flavor of cold brew coffee with the creaminess of vanilla, creating a delightful balance that lifts my spirits. I’ve perfected this recipe to ensure that each sip is smooth and indulgent, while also being easy to whip up at home. The best part? It only takes a few minutes to prepare, making it a perfect pick-me-up during a busy day.

Created by

Abigail Moore

Last updated on 2026-02-16T10:09:36.531Z

When I first created this Vanilla Bean Cold Brew Frappe, it was a hot summer day, and I was craving something cool and energizing. I decided to experiment by blending cold brew coffee with ice, vanilla bean paste, and a touch of milk. The result was so refreshing that I found myself making it every week. I love how the vanilla flavor brightens the drink without overwhelming the rich coffee taste.

I also discovered that using a high-quality cold brew makes all the difference. The coffee's natural sweetness and smoothness pair exceptionally well with the vanilla, creating a delightful beverage that's perfect for any occasion. Try it with almond milk for a nutty twist!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich vanilla aroma that tantalizes the senses
Perfect blend of smooth cold brew and creamy texture
Easily customizable to suit your coffee cravings

Choosing the Right Cold Brew Coffee

The foundation of your Vanilla Bean Cold Brew Frappe is the cold brew coffee itself. For the best flavor, opt for a well-brewed batch using coarsely ground coffee beans steeped in cold water for 12-24 hours. If you prefer a less acidic taste, aim for a longer steeping time. Remember, the quality of coffee greatly influences the final drink, so try to use freshly roasted beans and filter water for an optimal result.

If you're short on time, store-bought cold brew can work as a convenient alternative. However, be cautious with brands that include added flavors and syrups, as they can overshadow the delicate vanilla notes. A simple, black cold brew will allow the vanilla bean paste to shine, maintaining that creamy and balanced taste in your frappe.

Mastering the Texture

One of the most enjoyable aspects of a frappe is its creamy, frothy consistency. When blending, start at a lower speed to combine the ingredients gradually, then increase to high speed, blending for about 30 seconds or until the mixture looks thick and velvety. If your frappe turns out too thin, add a bit more ice and blend again; conversely, if it's too thick, a splash of milk can smooth it out.

For the best visual appeal, consider serving the frappe in clear glasses to showcase the creamy texture. If you're using whipped cream, it can be a fun touch to drizzle some additional vanilla sauce or even a hint of chocolate syrup over the top for extra indulgence.

Ingredients

Cold Brew Frappe Ingredients

1 cup cold brew coffee
1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
2 tablespoons vanilla bean paste
1 cup ice
2 tablespoons sweetener (sugar, honey, or syrup, optional)
Whipped cream for topping (optional)

Instructions

Blend the Ingredients

In a blender, combine the cold brew coffee, milk, vanilla bean paste, ice, and sweetener, if using. Blend until smooth and frothy.

Serve and Enjoy

Pour the frappe into glasses and top with whipped cream if desired. Enjoy immediately for the best flavor and texture!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different types of milk or add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!

Customization Options

The wonderful thing about this frappe is how easily you can tailor it to your preferences. For a richer flavor, try adding a pinch of salt to enhance the sweetness and depth of the vanilla. If you're feeling adventurous, incorporate a shot of espresso for an extra caffeine kick or even a scoop of your favorite ice cream for a luxurious treat on hot days.

Additionally, experiment with different milks based on your dietary needs. Almond, oat, or coconut milk can create unique flavor profiles that complement the vanilla. Just ensure that whichever milk you use, it's chilled for the best frothy texture.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to prepare this frappé in advance, consider blending the coffee, milk, and vanilla mixture and storing it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just remember to add ice right before serving, as blending with ice beforehand may lead to separation. Keep the whipped cream separate to ensure it stays fresh and maintains its texture.

On particularly busy days, having a quick batch ready to go can come in handy. You might even pour the mixture into ice cube trays to create coffee ice cubes. This way, you can easily blend frozen cubes, maintaining that perfect frappé consistency without watering it down.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this vegan?

Absolutely! Use a non-dairy milk like almond, soy, or oat milk.

→ How can I make it sweeter?

Simply add more sweetener to taste. You can use sugar, honey, or your favorite sweetener.

→ Is there an alternative to cold brew?

Yes, you can use strong brewed coffee that has been chilled, but cold brew provides a smoother flavor.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ingredients and blend just before serving.