When the Greek sun blazes and temperatures rise, locals turn to their most iconic chilled coffee drink: the frappé. Invented by accident and now a beloved staple, this frothy, icy beverage is the ultimate summer refreshment with caffeine.
In this article, we’ll explore the origins of the Greek frappé, what makes it different from other cold coffees, and how to make an authentic version at home.
The Accidental Invention of the Frappé
The Greek frappé was born in 1957 during the Thessaloniki International Fair. A Nestlé representative was demonstrating instant chocolate milk using a shaker, but one employee, unable to find hot water, mixed instant coffee, water, and ice in a shaker instead.
The result? A frothy, chilled coffee drink that would become a cultural icon across Greece and Cyprus.
What Is a Greek Frappé?
Unlike iced coffee or cold brew, the Greek frappé is:
- Made with instant coffee (typically Nescafé)
- Shaken or blended to produce a thick foam
- Served cold over ice, often with sugar and milk
- Refreshing, frothy, and slightly bitter in a good way
It’s often sipped slowly, especially at cafés by the beach or in public squares, where enjoying a frappé becomes a social ritual.
Ingredients for a Traditional Frappé
- 2 teaspoons instant coffee (Nescafé is traditional)
- 2 teaspoons sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- Ice cubes
- Cold water or milk to top up
- Optional: evaporated milk for a creamy version
How to Make a Greek Frappé at Home
Shaker Method (Traditional)
- Add instant coffee, sugar, and 2 tbsp cold water to a cocktail shaker or jar with a tight lid.
- Shake vigorously for 30 seconds until a thick foam forms.
- Pour the foam into a tall glass filled with ice.
- Top with cold water or milk, and stir gently.
- Serve with a straw and enjoy slowly.
Blender Method (Easier)
- Add all ingredients to a blender: coffee, sugar, 2 tbsp water, and a few ice cubes.
- Blend until frothy and light.
- Pour into a tall glass and top up with more water or milk.
- Serve immediately.
Types of Frappé (By Sweetness)
- Sketos: No sugar (strong and bitter)
- Metrios: Medium sweetness (1–2 tsp sugar)
- Glykos: Sweet (2+ tsp sugar)
You can also order it:
- Me gala: with milk
- Horís gala: without milk
Frappé vs Frappuccino vs Cold Brew
| Drink | Base | Texture | Sweetness | Preparation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Greek Frappé | Instant | Frothy | Adjustable | Shaken/blended |
| Frappuccino | Espresso | Creamy/Icy | Sweet | Blended with cream and syrup |
| Cold Brew | Ground beans | Smooth | Unsweetened | Steeped 12+ hrs |
The Greek frappé stands out for its foam and simplicity, relying on just a few ingredients to create something bold and refreshing.
Best Time and Place to Enjoy It
- Summer afternoons in the shade
- At the beach, in a café, or on your balcony
- During casual meetups or as a post-lunch drink
- With light snacks like olives, cheese, or pastries
It’s not uncommon to see locals linger for hours with just one frappé, slowly sipping and enjoying the moment.
Final Thoughts: Simple, Social, and Satisfying
The Greek frappé proves that great coffee doesn’t need to be complicated. With just instant coffee, water, and ice, you can create a cold drink that’s refreshing, energizing, and tied to decades of Mediterranean tradition.
So the next time the weather heats up, skip the fancy cold brews and try a homemade frappé—you might just find your new favorite summer ritual.