Picture this: you stroll out for a casual walk on a pleasant day, and step into the cafe of your choice. You open the menu card, and it lights up with several dreamy coffee options. Among the many, two names particularly stand out: Frappe and Latte.

Both are delightful coffee drinks, each having a unique appeal, making you pause to decide. Should you go for the cool, creamy thrill of a frappe or the warm, silky comfort of a latte? So, since the two make a major portion of the coffee drinks ordered at a cafe, choosing between them can be challenging.

This friendly guide helps you make your pick. It walks you through a detailed comparison between a latte and a frappe – the drinks competing strongly with cappuccino coffee. 

Defining a Frappe and a Latte

Before diving deeper into the differences between the two coffee-based drinks, let’s understand the basics about a latte and a frappe. 

Frappe

A frappe is a cold beverage made with ice, milk, sweeteners, and, of course, coffee. The added flavors make it sweeter than other coffee drinks. It first originated in Greece in 1957. The drink is blended, resulting in a frothy top with large, airy bubbles. This, combined with the drink’s icy nature, makes it a perfect drink to enjoy in hot summers.

Latte

Another beverage with a coffee base, a latte is a favorite for many coffee enthusiasts. The drink combines espresso shots with steamed milk, which creates a smooth and creamy hot drink. In fact, in Italy, latte is famous for its creamy texture. It is a hot beverage with a creamy, comforting, and highlights coffee flavor without being too strong.

Difference Between a Frappe and a Latte

The following table gives a quick look at the differences between the two coffee beverages:

1. Breaking Down Ingredients and Preparation 

Despite being two coffee-based beverages, the ingredients and preparation techniques of frappe and latte differ.

Frappe is made when different ingredients are blended in a machine, resulting in a frothy drink. The ingredients include:

• Instant coffee 
• Water 
• Milk 
• Sugar 
• Ice 

These are the base ingredients. You can always make variations and personalize the drink per your preferences. For instance, you can add different syrups like caramel or vanilla for unique tastes. If you want a near-milkshake-like experience, you can include ice cream blended into the mix. Adding whipped cream on top makes it even more indulgent.

Preparation Technique 

1. Stir instant coffee with a splash of cold water until foamy.
2. Blend with ice, a bit of sugar, and milk.
3. Pour into a tall glass. Add whipped cream or syrup if you like.

Latte is an espresso-shot-based drink. Each of the ingredients is added in a specific ratio to enjoy the desired drink. These include:

• ⅓ espresso
• ⅔ steamed milk

Like frappes, lattes can also be customized. You can use non-dairy and skimmed milks instead of full-cream milk, such as oat milk or almond milk, for plant-based versions. You can even add flavored syrups and spices like cinnamon for enhanced flavor.

Preparation Technique

1. Brew an espresso shot (or use strong coffee). 
2. Heat and froth milk gently. 
3. Pour espresso into a cup, then pour steamed milk over it.  
4. Top with foamy milk. 

2. Comparing Caffeine Levels

True, frappes and lattes are coffee beverages, but the varying caffeine levels significantly contribute to the flavor differences.

Frappes should be your preferred choice when you desire a mild cold coffee version with an airy texture. The following is a brief breakdown of the caffeine content in different frappes:

Lattes, on the other hand, usually pack a strong, predictable caffeine punch from the espresso shot. These are preferred when you desire a reliable go-to coffee drink for a gentle buzz. The following is a brief breakdown of the caffeine content in lattes:

3. The Taste and Texture Analysis

Any two beverages with the same basic ingredients can differ worlds apart in taste and texture. The same is the case for frappes and lattes.

Frappe is a cold, dessert-based drink that you can drink and enjoy through a straw. It is a little icy, sweet, and fluffy beverage, close to milkshakes. Every sip is smooth with a tiny zing of coffee and sugar.

Lattes are warm, creamy milk-hugging beverages with a gentle to strong coffee punch (based on the strength of the espresso shot). It’s smooth and rich, with an espresso flavor, offering both a relaxing and satisfying feel. 

4. Measuring the Calories

While latte and frappe are drinks that are enjoyed without checking the calorie count. However, some diet-conscious individuals do love to drink coffee while taking note of the associated calories. The following is a quick breakdown of the calories present in each frappe and latte:

Taking the Final Sip

Both frappes and lattes shine in their own way. A frappe is a chilled, sweet, dessert-like drink and is perfect for sunny afternoons. On the other hand, a latte is the warm, creamy, comforting drink that pairs beautifully with slow mornings or cozy evenings.  

Neither drink is “better” than the other; it all depends on your mood, the weather, and how you like your coffee experience. So, next time you’re at any of the best coffee places in Lahore, you’ll know exactly which one to order with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions