Vanilla Hazelnut Iced Frappé
Highlighted under: Fast & Simple Meals
When summer hits, I crave refreshing drinks that cool me down without sacrificing flavor. One of my favorite indulgences is the Vanilla Hazelnut Iced Frappé. This creamy concoction combines the rich essence of vanilla with the nutty crunch of hazelnuts, creating a beverage that's both energizing and satisfying. I love preparing this frappé at home because it's easy, customizable, and perfect for hot days. Whether enjoyed on a sunny morning or as an afternoon pick-me-up, this drink is sure to delight anyone who loves a flavorful treat.
Making my own Vanilla Hazelnut Iced Frappé has become a delightful tradition in my kitchen. I experimented with different ratios of vanilla and hazelnut, and I found that balancing these flavors is key for an invigorating drink. Using high-quality vanilla extract and fresh roasted hazelnuts makes a noticeable difference, enhancing the overall taste.
Another tip I discovered is the importance of blending with ice cubes to achieve that perfect texture. It not only cools the drink efficiently but also gives it a delightful slushy consistency. Add a sprinkle of crushed hazelnuts on top for an extra touch!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Indulgent flavors that awaken your senses
- Creamy and frosty texture that's irresistible
- Perfect for hot days or as an afternoon treat
Ingredient Insights
The backbone of this Vanilla Hazelnut Iced Frappé is strong brewed coffee. Choosing a good quality coffee is crucial, as it contributes significantly to the overall flavor profile. If you’re using a light roast, you may find the nuttiness of the hazelnut syrup becomes more pronounced, while a dark roast offers a rich, bold foundation. Make sure to chill the coffee thoroughly before blending; this will ensure your frappé remains icy and refreshing without diluting it too quickly.
Milk is another vital component, and you have options here. While whole milk creates a creamier texture, you can use almond or oat milk for a lighter alternative and to cater to dietary preferences. If you're looking to add an extra layer of flavor, try a vanilla-flavored non-dairy milk, which pairs beautifully with the other ingredients without overpowering them. The choice of milk will affect the mouthfeel and sweetness, so choose according to your taste!
Blending Techniques
Blending is where the magic happens, and achieving the perfect consistency can make or break your frappé experience. A high-powered blender works best, as it will effectively crush the ice and combine the ingredients into a smooth, cohesive drink. Blend on high for about 30 to 45 seconds, but keep an eye out for any remaining ice chunks—your goal is a silky texture. If your mixture seems too thick, add a splash more milk to loosen it up just a bit.
For a more decadent texture, you can experiment by adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a scoop of protein powder for an extra creamy finish. Just remember that too much additional volume may require a bit more blending time to get it all incorporated smoothly. Also, ensure you’re not over-blending, as this could result in a soupy frappé rather than the desired frosty treat.
Ingredients for Vanilla Hazelnut Iced Frappé
Ingredients
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee, chilled
- 1 cup milk (or non-dairy alternative)
- 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons hazelnut syrup
- 1 cup ice cubes
- Whipped cream for topping
- Crushed hazelnuts for garnish
Gather these ingredients, and let’s create something delicious!
Steps to Prepare Vanilla Hazelnut Iced Frappé
Blend the Ingredients
In a blender, combine the chilled coffee, milk, vanilla extract, hazelnut syrup, and ice cubes. Blend on high until smooth and creamy.
Serve and Garnish
Pour the mixture into two tall glasses. Top each frappé with whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed hazelnuts for added crunch.
Enjoy your refreshing Vanilla Hazelnut Iced Frappé!
Pro Tips
- Experiment with different milk types for a unique flavor, and try adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Serving Suggestions
Once you’ve blended your frappé, serving it chilled enhances the experience. Use tall, clear glasses to showcase the inviting layers and colors of your drink. For a fun twist, try adding a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce along the inside of the glass before pouring the frappé; this not only makes for a beautiful presentation but adds a delightful extra layer of sweetness.
Pair your Vanilla Hazelnut Iced Frappé with a light snack, like a buttery croissant or a handful of mixed nuts, to balance out the sweetness. This drink also serves well for brunch gatherings—imagine it being served alongside fresh pastries or as a refreshing pick-me-up during a warm summer afternoon.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
If you find yourself wanting this frappé often, you can prep ahead by freezing brewed coffee into ice cubes. This allows you to whip up your frappé on a whim without worrying about diluting the flavor. Just blend the coffee ice cubes with the other ingredients, and you’ll have a delicious drink ready in minutes without waiting for the coffee to chill.
To store a prepared frappé, keep it in the refrigerator for up to two hours. However, be aware that the icy texture will change as it sits. If you plan on leftovers, I recommend blending a little extra ice into the mixture right before serving to bring back that frozen, creamy texture.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use decaf coffee for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using decaf coffee is a great option if you want to enjoy the flavor without the caffeine.
→ What can I substitute for hazelnut syrup?
You can use other flavored syrups like almond or chocolate if you want a different taste.
→ Can I make this frappé without a blender?
While a blender is ideal for achieving a smooth texture, you can whisk the ingredients vigorously to combine them, though it may not be as frothy.
→ How do I store leftover frappé?
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for a few hours, but it's best enjoyed fresh.
Vanilla Hazelnut Iced Frappé
When summer hits, I crave refreshing drinks that cool me down without sacrificing flavor. One of my favorite indulgences is the Vanilla Hazelnut Iced Frappé. This creamy concoction combines the rich essence of vanilla with the nutty crunch of hazelnuts, creating a beverage that's both energizing and satisfying. I love preparing this frappé at home because it's easy, customizable, and perfect for hot days. Whether enjoyed on a sunny morning or as an afternoon pick-me-up, this drink is sure to delight anyone who loves a flavorful treat.
Created by: Piper Andrews
Recipe Type: Fast & Simple Meals
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 2 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee, chilled
- 1 cup milk (or non-dairy alternative)
- 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons hazelnut syrup
- 1 cup ice cubes
- Whipped cream for topping
- Crushed hazelnuts for garnish
How-To Steps
In a blender, combine the chilled coffee, milk, vanilla extract, hazelnut syrup, and ice cubes. Blend on high until smooth and creamy.
Pour the mixture into two tall glasses. Top each frappé with whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed hazelnuts for added crunch.
Extra Tips
- Experiment with different milk types for a unique flavor, and try adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 100mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 39g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 25g
- Protein: 7g