Frappe vs. Milkshake — What's the Difference?

A frappe is a drink that originates from the French word "frappé," meaning "struck" or "iced." It primarily refers to a blended beverage made with coffee or fruit, often blended with ice to give it a slushy consistency. In certain parts of the world, the term frappe is specifically associated with a foamy iced coffee drink. On the other hand, a milkshake is traditionally a creamy beverage made by blending milk with ice cream, and often flavorings or sweeteners, resulting in a thick, smooth drink.

In many cafes or restaurants, a frappe can often be a coffee-based drink, similar to an iced coffee but blended to have a more aerated, frothy texture. This differs from the creamy texture of a milkshake, which gets its consistency from the ice cream used in its preparation. Some variations of frappes, especially in European contexts, may not even include coffee but could be fruit-based.

From a historical perspective, the frappe is believed to have Greek origins, especially the coffee version, which became popular in Greece in the 1950s. It became synonymous with cold, blended coffee drinks. Milkshakes, conversely, have been a staple in American diners since the early 20th century, originally made with a mixture of milk, malt, and flavorings before evolving to include ice cream.

In terms of preparation, a frappe may be made using a shaker or a blender, depending on the desired consistency. Ingredients like sugar, milk, or syrups can be added based on preference. A milkshake, however, almost always requires a blender to achieve its characteristically creamy texture, primarily derived from the ice cream.