Vietnamese Coffee Vanilla Frappe

Name: Vietnamese Coffee Vanilla Frappe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups strong brewed Vietnamese coffee, cooled; 1 cup ice cubes; 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Whipped cream for topping (optional)

Highlighted under: International Flavor Recipes

I absolutely love starting my day with a refreshing Vietnamese Coffee Vanilla Frappe. The rich flavor of coffee blends harmoniously with the smoothness of vanilla, creating an indulgent drink that’s perfect for any time of day. This recipe is simple yet delivers an exciting twist to your usual coffee break. Whipping it up takes just a few minutes, making it an ideal choice for a quick pick-me-up or a chilled afternoon treat. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be back for more!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-09T17:21:27.695Z

When I first experimented with a Vietnamese Coffee Vanilla Frappe, I was captivated by how the robust coffee aroma melded beautifully with creamy vanilla. Using a blend of strong Vietnamese coffee and sweetened condensed milk, this drink replicates the local cafes' charm right in my kitchen. I found that blending the coffee with ice for the perfect consistency is key, and it creates a frothy, café-style finish.

This frappe isn’t just a cool drink; it’s a delightful experience! I love sprinkling a bit of cocoa powder on top as a finishing touch, which gives it a beautiful presentation and an extra layer of flavor. It's a delightful way to elevate an afternoon or to impress guests at brunch!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich coffee flavor balanced beautifully with creamy vanilla
Quick and easy to make, perfect for any time of the day
A delightful twist that captures the essence of Vietnamese coffee culture

The Importance of Quality Coffee

Using high-quality Vietnamese coffee is crucial for achieving the authentic flavor profile that this frappe is known for. Look for brands that source their beans from Vietnam, which often have a robust, rich taste with hints of chocolate. The strength of the brewed coffee is key; it should be brewed strong enough to withstand the dilution from ice without losing its character. Aim for a coffee-to-water ratio of about 1:5 to ensure depth and intensity.

Another important aspect of the coffee is its brewing method. Traditional Vietnamese coffee is often made using a drip brew with a phin, which allows for a slow extraction that brings out the nuanced flavors. If you don’t have a phin, you can use an espresso machine or a French press, but be sure to let the coffee cool completely before blending to avoid melting the ice too quickly.

Perfecting the Frappe Texture

The texture of your frappe is as important as its flavor. To achieve that creamy, frothy consistency, the balance of ice to liquid matters significantly. Too much ice can lead to a slushy result, while too little might create a watered-down drink. Start with the recommended amount of ice, and you can adjust based on your texture preference. Also, blending at high speed is essential; blend until the mixture is smooth and glossy, which usually takes about 30 seconds.

For those who prefer a sweeter frappe, feel free to adjust the amount of sweetened condensed milk. It's a great idea to start with half a cup, then add more to taste. Remember, this ingredient not only provides sweetness but also creaminess, contributing to the overall mouthfeel of the drink.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While the classic Vietnamese Coffee Vanilla Frappe is delicious on its own, consider some fun toppings to enhance its presentation. A dollop of whipped cream not only adds visual appeal but also introduces another layer of creaminess that complements the frappe's rich flavors. A sprinkle of cocoa powder or cinnamon on top can also elevate the beverage further, adding a hint of spice that pairs wonderfully with the coffee and vanilla.

For a fruity twist, try blending in some fresh or frozen bananas or a scoop of coffee-flavored ice cream. This variation adds natural sweetness and creaminess, creating a delectable dessert-like version of the frappe. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, substitutes like coconut milk or almond milk can be used in place of sweetened condensed milk, keeping the integrity of the frappe without the dairy.

Ingredients

For the Frappe

2 cups strong brewed Vietnamese coffee, cooled
1 cup ice cubes
1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Whipped cream for topping (optional)

Instructions

Blend Ingredients

In a blender, combine the cooled Vietnamese coffee, ice cubes, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract. Blend on high until smooth and frothy.

Serve

Pour the frappe into tall glasses. Optionally, top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for a beautiful finish.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a shot of espresso or experimenting with flavored syrups such as hazelnut or caramel.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Vietnamese Coffee Vanilla Frappe can be prepared in advance for busy mornings. Brew a batch of Vietnamese coffee the night before, allowing it to cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but also ensures you always have a refreshing drink ready to go. You can also pre-measure the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract to streamline the process in the morning.

If you prefer a portion of the frappe ready for later, consider blending the ingredients without ice and storing the mixture in an airtight container in the fridge. When you're ready to serve, simply pour it over ice and blend again for a quick and delightful treat.

Storage and Freezing

Store any leftover Vietnamese Coffee Vanilla Frappe in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, though it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you find that the frappe has separated after sitting, a quick stir or a gentle blend will help recombine the ingredients. Avoid freezing the frappe as the texture can change and become icy, losing that smooth, creamy blend you desire.

For a longer-term solution, consider freezing brewed Vietnamese coffee in ice cube trays. You can then use these coffee cubes in your frappe to help maintain its rich flavor without diluting it. This can be a fantastic way to enjoy your frappe on a hot day without worrying about losing its coffee essence.

Troubleshooting Your Frappe

If your frappe ends up too thick, you can easily fix it by adding a little extra cooled Vietnamese coffee or a splash of milk or plant-based milk to thin it out. Blend the mixture again until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it's too thin, feel free to add more ice just a bit at a time; blend again until you've reached a frothy, rich consistency.

Another common issue is not having enough sweetness. If you find your frappe lacks that satisfying sweetness, remember that sweetened condensed milk is the primary sweetener. You can also stir in a bit of sugar or flavored syrups after blending if needed. Adjusting after the fact is perfectly acceptable, so don’t hesitate to make it your own!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular coffee instead of Vietnamese coffee?

Yes, you can use any strong brewed coffee, but keep in mind that Vietnamese coffee has a unique flavor that enhances the frappe.

→ Can I make this frappe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute sweetened condensed milk with a dairy-free version made from coconut or almond milk.

→ How can I adjust the sweetness?

Feel free to adjust the amount of sweetened condensed milk to your taste, or replace it with your favorite sweetener.

→ Is this recipe suitable for kids?

While the caffeine content is relatively low in this drink, it's best to serve it to older kids or as an occasional treat.