Your Ultimate Summer Pick-Me-Up
When the summer heat rolls in, there's nothing quite like a frosty glass of Greek-style iced coffee, better known as Frappe. Cooling you down and lifting your spirits. Born in Greece in the 1950s and beloved ever since, the frappé is more than a drink, it's a daily ritual, a social experience, and a symbol of summer leisure. Whether you're lounging on the balcony, planning a beach day, or just need a mid-afternoon energy boost, this frothy and flavorful coffee is the perfect companion.
The best part? You can make it right at home, with just a few simple ingredients. Here's your step-by-step guide to crafting the perfect Greek frappé.
What You'll Need
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2 teaspoons instant coffee (Nescafé is the classic choice in Greece)
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1–2 teaspoons sugar (optional, depending on your preference)
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2 tablespoons cold water
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Ice cubes
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Cold water or milk (or a mix of both, depending on how creamy you want it)
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A tall glass
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A handheld milk frother or shaker jar
- A straw (optional, but traditional!)
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Froth It Up
In a shaker or tall glass, add your instant coffee, sugar (if using), and about 2 tablespoons of cold water.
Use a handheld frother or shake vigorously in a sealed jar until the mixture becomes thick and foamy. This rich, velvety foam is the heart of the frappé.
Step 2: Ice, Ice, Baby
Fill a tall glass with a generous amount of ice cubes. The more, the better, this is meant to be ice-cold and long-lasting.
Step 3: Pour & Top Off
Pour your frothy coffee mixture over the ice. Then top it off with cold water, milk, or a combination of the two, depending on how strong or creamy you want it. Stir gently to combine.
Step 4: Sip & Savor
Pop in a straw and enjoy your frappé slowly, like the Greeks do. It’s not just a drink, it’s a moment to pause and enjoy life.
Make It Your Own
Sweetness Levels:
Sketos : No sugar
Metrios: 1 to 2 tsp sugar
Glykos: 2+ tsp sugar
With or Without Milk: Add milk if you prefer a creamier taste, or stick to water for a more intense coffee flavor.
Add a Twist: Sprinkle in some cinnamon, a drop of vanilla extract, or even a splash of liqueur for a grown-up version.
Why It’s So Popular
The Greek frappé isn’t just a delicious iced coffee, it’s a lifestyle. It’s what people sip at cafés for hours, chatting with friends and soaking up the sun. It's the fuel for summer adventures and lazy afternoons alike. Once you try it, you'll understand why it's become a staple from Athens to the islands, and why it's quickly winning hearts around the world.
Now it’s your turn.
Try making your own Greek-style frappé and bring some Mediterranean magic into your summer days. Whether you're enjoying it solo or with friends, remember the Greek philosophy: take your time, enjoy every sip, and always make space for good coffee.
We Drink Coffee Together.
Kali orexi (enjoy)! 🇬🇷