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 ice; 1/2 cup milk of your choice; 2 tablespoons vanilla bean paste; 2 tablespoons sugar (or to taste); Whipped cream for topping (optional)

Highlighted under: Oven Fresh Creations

I love starting my mornings with a refreshing Vanilla Bean Cold Brew Frappe. The fragrant aroma of vanilla beans combined with rich cold brew coffee creates an indulgent treat that wakes up my senses. It’s my go-to drink whenever I'm craving something sweet yet energizing. Blending in just the right amount of milk and ice results in a creamy, frosty beverage that’s perfect for hot days or lazy weekends. Trust me, once you try this easy recipe, you won’t want to order it from a café again!

Created by

Gwendolyn Reed

Last updated on 2026-02-16T04:03:36.342Z

When I first tried making a Vanilla Bean Cold Brew Frappe at home, I was amazed at how simple yet delightful it turned out. The key to achieving that perfect blend of flavors is using quality cold brew coffee and fresh vanilla beans, rather than extracts. I'm often surprised at how a little extra effort can elevate a drink from ordinary to extraordinary.

I also discovered that the type of milk you choose can really change the game. Coconut milk adds a tropical twist, while almond milk makes it lighter. I personally enjoy experimenting with different options to see which one satisfies my taste buds the most!

Why You'll Love This Frappe
Rich vanilla aroma enhances your coffee experience
Creamy texture makes it feel like a dessert in a cup
Customizable with your favorite milk alternatives

The Role of Vanilla Bean Paste

Vanilla bean paste is the star of this frappe, offering a depth of flavor that vanilla extract simply cannot match. The tiny flecks of the vanilla beans give visual appeal and signify quality. When using vanilla bean paste, I recommend measuring carefully for the best results, as a little goes a long way. The sweetness and aromatic profile enhance the overall experience, making each sip feel luxurious.

Additionally, if you find yourself without vanilla bean paste, you can substitute with a good quality vanilla extract—though the final taste will differ slightly. Aim for 1-2 teaspoons of extract, but be wary of using too much, as the extract can sometimes impart a sharper flavor. The key is to balance the sweetness with the rich coffee base for an indulgent experience.

Choosing the Right Milk

The choice of milk can drastically alter the texture and flavor of your Vanilla Bean Cold Brew Frappe. Full-fat cow's milk provides richness, while almond or oat milk offers a lighter, nutty twist. If you’re aiming for creaminess, I suggest using whole milk or a creamy almond milk. Conversely, if you're looking for a dairy-free option but still want a rich mouthfeel, try using coconut milk.

For those watching sugar intake, unsweetened almond or cashew milk can work beautifully without compromising too much on flavor. You can even blend in a scoop of unsweetened Greek yogurt for an added protein boost while maintaining creaminess. No matter your choice, ensure your milk is chilled; this will help keep the frappe frosty and refreshing.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

While this Vanilla Bean Cold Brew Frappe is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep ingredients ahead of time. Brew a batch of cold brew coffee and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can even portion out the vanilla bean paste and sugar in zip-lock bags or containers to make blending quicker in the morning.

If you’re making this frappe for a gathering, consider doubling the ingredients to serve more guests. Blend in batches if necessary, and keep the extra in a chilled pitcher. Ensure you stir before serving, as separating can occur. Just remember, this drink is best consumed immediately after blending to ensure you enjoy the creamy texture and frosty temperature!

Ingredients

For the Frappe

1 cup cold brew coffee
1 cup ice
1/2 cup milk of your choice
2 tablespoons vanilla bean paste
2 tablespoons sugar (or to taste)
Whipped cream for topping (optional)

Instructions

Steps

Blend the Ingredients

In a blender, add the cold brew coffee, ice, milk, vanilla bean paste, and sugar. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Serve the Frappe

Pour the frappe into two glasses. Top with whipped cream if desired and a sprinkle of vanilla bean for garnish.

Pro Tips

Feel free to adjust the sweetness to your liking. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm spice twist.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance your Vanilla Bean Cold Brew Frappe experience, try serving it with a slice of vanilla cheesecakes or buttery cookies. The sweet and creamy nature of the frappe pairs well with desserts, making it a perfect afternoon pick-me-up or post-dinner treat.

For an extra touch, consider garnishing the whipped cream topping with a sprinkle of crushed coffee beans or a drizzle of caramel sauce. This not only adds visual appeal but also incorporates complementary flavors that elevate the overall indulgence of the drink.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your frappe turns out too watery, it could be because either the ice melted too quickly or too much milk was added. To fix this, try using less ice next time or blending for a shorter time. Alternatively, if you like a thicker consistency, use less milk or add more ice to the blend.

In case you find the flavor lacking sweetness or depth, don't hesitate to adjust sugar levels after blending. Remember that chilling the brewed coffee overnight can enhance its flavor profile, so planning ahead can provide a more robust coffee base, ensuring every sip is flavorful.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this frappe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Just substitute regular milk with almond milk, coconut milk, or any plant-based milk of your choice.

→ How do I store leftover frappe?

Leftover frappe can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good shake or stir before drinking.

→ Can I use vanilla extract instead of vanilla bean paste?

Yes, you can use vanilla extract, but the flavor intensity may vary. Use about 1-2 teaspoons of extract as a substitute.

→ Is it possible to make this frappe without a blender?

While blending is ideal for a smooth texture, you can whisk the ingredients together by hand. The texture will be more rustic.