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There is nothing like the taste of a delicious cappuccino in the morning. But what about a refreshing frappuccino on a hot day? Both drinks are popular among coffee lovers, but there are some distinct differences between them.
In this blog post, we will compare a cappuccino vs frappuccino and help you decide which one is best for you!
Origins: Cappuccino vs Frappuccino
Coffee is a beverage that has been enjoyed for centuries around the world. But cappuccino and frappuccino are relatively recent additions to the coffee family.
Let’s first explore the origins of these two delicious beverages.
Cappuccino Origin
The origin of the cappuccino can be traced back to the 18th century when it first appeared in the coffeehouses of Vienna, according to Britannica.
The drink was known as a Kapuziner and was made with coffee, whipped cream, and sugar. This version of the cappuccino was quite popular in Vienna during this period.
In the early 20th century, Italian cappuccino emerged after the invention of the espresso machine.
It is believed that the name of both versions of cappuccino directly relates to the color of robes worn by members of the Capuchin order of friars, who wore a rich brown hooded cowl that revealed a white-tonsured head when removed.
This visual similarity also explains why capuchin monkeys are named after these monks, as they have a monk-like tuft on their heads which resemble both drinks’ colors.
The cappuccino consists of espresso and steamed milk, with a layer of frothed milk on top. It is typically served in a small cup and often consumed with a sweet pastry or biscotti.
Frappuccino Origin
In contrast, the Frappuccino is a relatively new addition to the coffee world.
It was first introduced by Starbucks in the 1990s and quickly became a popular drink around the world.
The Frappuccino is a blended coffee drink that is typically made with ice, milk, and a flavored syrup or coffee concentrate.
It can be topped with whipped cream and drizzled with syrup or sprinkles. Frappuccinos are usually served cold and are a popular choice during warmer months.
Cappuccino vs Frappuccino: How Are They Made
The ingredients used in a cappuccino vs Frappuccino differ significantly.
Cappuccino Ingredients
A cappuccino is made with espresso, steamed milk, and frothed milk. The espresso is the base of the drink, and it provides the strong, rich flavor that cappuccinos are known for.
The steamed milk is added to the espresso to make the drink less intense, and the frothed milk is layered on top to create a creamy texture.
Frappuccino Ingredients
In contrast, a Frappuccino is made with ice, milk, and a flavored syrup or coffee concentrate. The ice is blended with the milk and coffee concentrate to create a smooth, icy texture.
The flavored syrup is added to give the drink its distinct taste, and whipped cream is often added to the top to enhance the sweetness.
How To Make a Cappuccino
A cappuccino is a delicious Italian espresso-based coffee drink. To make a cappuccino, you will need freshly ground espresso beans, steamed milk, and frothed milk.
- Start by adding one or two shots of espresso to your cup. For the best results, use freshly ground espresso beans that have been tamped down evenly in the portafilter.
- Then, add steamed milk to the cup until it’s about two-thirds full. The steamed milk should be creamy and slightly sweet.
- Next, froth your milk until it forms a thick foam on top of the cup. You can do this with an electric frother, the steam wand on an espresso machine, or you can steam it yourself with a handheld steamer wand. Tip: Be sure not to over-froth your milk at this stage, as it will affect the taste of your cappuccino.
- Now that you have all of your ingredients ready, combine them together and stir lightly for maximum flavor and texture.
- If desired, sprinkle some cocoa powder or cinnamon on top for an extra special treat!
Enjoy your homemade cappuccino with friends or family for a truly delightful experience.
How to Make a Frappuccino
- Start by gathering the ingredients necessary to make a frappuccino. You will need milk, coffee, ice cubes, flavored syrup (such as mocha or vanilla), and your choice of sweetener (i.e. sugar or honey). Pro tip: Instead of using regular ice cubes, use coffee ice cubes.
- Measure out two cups of cold milk into a blender and add two teaspoons of flavored syrup. Stir until the syrup is completely dissolved into the milk.
- Add three tablespoons of freshly brewed espresso or strong coffee to the milk mixture in the blender. Feel free to add more if you want it stronger>
- Fill a blender cup with ice cubes and pour them into the milk mixture. Add one tablespoon of your chosen sweetener and blend until the frappuccino is smooth and creamy.
- Pour the frappuccino into a glass and top with whipped cream, chocolate syrup, sprinkles, or any other desired toppings. Enjoy!
Cappuccino vs Frappuccino: Key Differences
Flavor
The flavor of a cappuccino vs Frappuccino is also vastly different.
A cappuccino has a strong, bold flavor due to the espresso base. The steamed milk and frothed milk add a creamy texture and a slightly sweet taste, but the overall flavor is dominated by the coffee.
In contrast, a Frappuccino has a much sweeter taste due to the added syrup and whipped cream. The coffee flavor is still present, but it is much milder than in a cappuccino.
The icy texture also adds a refreshing element to the drink, making it a popular choice during warmer months.
Caffeine Content
A cappuccino typically contains 95 to 165 milligrams of caffeine, while a frappuccino can have anywhere from 63 to 126 milligrams.
The exact amount of caffeine in a cup of coffee depends on the size and type of coffee bean used in the preparation, how long the grounds were brewed, and how much water was used.
Cappuccinos are typically made with espresso shots that contain more caffeine than other brewing methods. Frappuccinos use concentrated coffee, which has fewer milligrams of caffeine per ounce than regular brewed coffee.
Additionally, Frappuccinos contain added sugar and other ingredients that may also affect caffeine levels. As such, the actual amount of caffeine in each cup of cappuccino or frappuccino may vary from one cafe to another.
Nutrition
The nutritional content of a cappuccino vs Frappuccino is also worth comparing.
A cappuccino is generally considered to be a lower calorie drink than a Frappuccino.
A typical cappuccino made with 2% milk and no added sugar contains around 120 calories, while a tall (12 oz) Frappuccino made with whole milk and whipped cream can contain up to 370 calories.
Frappuccinos also tend to be higher in sugar due to the added syrup and whipped cream, while cappuccinos are usually lower in sugar.
It’s worth noting that the nutritional content of both drinks can vary depending on the size, milk type, and added sweeteners.
However, as a general rule, cappuccinos tend to be a healthier option than Frappuccinos, particularly if you’re trying to limit your calorie and sugar intake.
Price
The price of a cappuccino vs Frappuccino can also vary significantly. Cappuccinos are generally less expensive than Frappuccinos because they contain fewer ingredients and are easier to prepare.
The price of a cappuccino at a coffee shop can range from $2 to $5, depending on the size and location.
In contrast, Frappuccinos can be quite expensive, with prices ranging from $4 to $7 for a tall (12 oz) size.
Cappuccino vs Frappuccino: Variations
Both cappuccinos and Frappuccinos can be customized to suit individual preferences.
For cappuccinos, you can choose the type of milk used (such as whole, skim, or almond milk), the amount of foam, and whether or not to add any flavorings (such as vanilla or caramel syrup).
Frappuccinos can also be customized by choosing the type of milk, syrup flavor, and whether or not to add whipped cream or additional toppings.
However, it’s worth noting that customization can also affect the nutritional content and price of the drink.
Adding extra syrup or whipped cream to a Frappuccino, for example, will increase the calorie and sugar content, as well as the price.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the differences between a cappuccino vs frappuccino are significant.
Cappuccinos are a traditional Italian coffee drink made with espresso, steamed milk, and frothed milk. They have a strong, bold flavor and are typically served hot in a small cup.
Frappuccinos, on the other hand, are a blended coffee drink made with ice, milk, and a flavored syrup or coffee concentrate. They have a sweet, creamy flavor and are typically served cold with whipped cream and syrup.
The choice between a cappuccino and Frappuccino ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a strong, bold coffee flavor with a creamy texture, a cappuccino is likely to be more to your liking.
If you prefer a sweet, icy drink with a milder coffee flavor, a Frappuccino may be the better option.
However, it’s worth noting that cappuccinos tend to be a healthier option than Frappuccinos, particularly if you’re trying to limit your calorie and sugar intake.
Ultimately, whether you’re a fan of cappuccinos or Frappuccinos, both drinks offer a unique and delicious coffee experience that can be customized to suit individual tastes.
Thanks for reading!
Happy brewing! Happy sipping!
P.S. Be sure to check out our other coffee-related articles for more information, as well as more tips and tricks on making the perfect cup of joe and to learn “All About That Coffee!”