Vanilla Hazelnut Iced Frappé

Name: Vanilla Hazelnut Iced Frappé
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cold brew coffee; 1 cup milk (or dairy alternative); 2 tablespoons hazelnut syrup; 2 tablespoons vanilla syrup; 1 cup ice; Whipped cream (for topping); Chopped hazelnuts (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Busy Day Cooking

I love making Vanilla Hazelnut Iced Frappés during the warm months, as they perfectly blend my favorite flavors with a refreshing chill. Every sip is a delightful experience, combining rich vanilla, nutty hazelnut, and creamy texture. This beverage quickly became a staple for my afternoon breaks, and I enjoy customizing it with different toppings like whipped cream or chocolate shavings. It’s a simple yet indulgent way to treat myself, and I find that it impresses guests when I serve it at gatherings. You'll want to keep this recipe handy!

Created by

Lucy Price

Last updated on 2026-02-16T05:33:36.927Z

Making the Vanilla Hazelnut Iced Frappé is more than just blending ingredients for me; it's a moment of creativity. I’ve found that using freshly roasted hazelnuts enhances the nutty flavor dramatically, so I always opt for real nuts when preparing this drink. Additionally, I like to adjust the sweetness by experimenting with different syrups to find my perfect balance.

This recipe also offers versatility; I can easily transform it into a dessert by topping it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an even richer treat. It’s all about tailoring it to my mood and occasion!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy, rich texture that refreshes during hot weather
Perfect blend of vanilla and hazelnut for a unique flavor profile
Customizable with various toppings to suit your taste

Understanding the Ingredients

The balance of flavors in your Vanilla Hazelnut Iced Frappé hinges on the quality of your ingredients. Using a rich cold brew coffee as the base not only lends a smoothness but also infuses a deep flavor that pairs wonderfully with hazelnut and vanilla. Opt for light roasts for a more mellow taste or darker roasts for more intense coffee notes. If you don’t have cold brew on hand, you can easily make it at home by steeping coarsely ground coffee in cold water for 12-24 hours.

Milk is another crucial component; it adds creaminess to your frappé. If you prefer a dairy-free option, nut-based milk such as almond or oat milk can substitute beautifully, contributing their unique flavors while keeping the drink luscious. I particularly like to use oat milk for how well it mimics dairy’s creaminess without overpowering the other flavors.

Perfecting Your Blending Technique

When blending your frappé, the order of ingredients can impact the final texture. Start by adding the cold brew and milk before the syrups and ice. This method ensures the syrups dissolve evenly and prevents large ice chunks from disrupting the smoothness. Blend on high until the mixture is fully combined. You’re aiming for a velvety consistency—if it’s too thick, add a splash more milk, and if it's too thin, toss in more ice.

Watch closely during blending to avoid over-processing. You want a creamy texture without turning it into a slushy mess. Check it after about 30 seconds; the goal is to achieve a glossy appearance without any visible ice chunks. Adjust as necessary to keep that delightful balance of smoothness and chill.

Customization and Variations

One of the joys of making your own Vanilla Hazelnut Iced Frappé is the ability to personalize it. For those who love their drinks a little sweeter, a pinch of chocolate syrup or a sprinkle of cinnamon can really elevate the flavors. Chocolate hazelnut syrups can also add a decadent twist if you're a fan of a chocolatey profile. Just be mindful of the balance; start with small amounts and taste as you go to ensure you don’t overpower the original vanilla and hazelnut flavors.

If you’re preparing this for a group, scaling up the recipe is simple. Consider blending in batches to maintain that perfect texture. You can also pre-mix the coffee and syrup base ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to a day, adding ice just before serving so it remains refreshing and enjoyable. This can save time during busy afternoons or gatherings and make entertaining a breeze.

Ingredients

Please gather these ingredients before you start:

Ingredients

1 cup cold brew coffee
1 cup milk (or dairy alternative)
2 tablespoons hazelnut syrup
2 tablespoons vanilla syrup
1 cup ice
Whipped cream (for topping)
Chopped hazelnuts (for garnish)

Make sure to use good quality syrups for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Vanilla Hazelnut Iced Frappé:

Blend the Base

In a blender, combine the cold brew coffee, milk, hazelnut syrup, vanilla syrup, and ice. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.

Serve and Garnish

Pour the frappé into two tall glasses. Top each with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chopped hazelnuts.

Enjoy

Serve immediately with a straw or a spoon. Enjoy your homemade Vanilla Hazelnut Iced Frappé!

Feel free to personalize your frappé with extra flavors!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a shot of espresso to your frappé. You can also make a larger batch in a pitcher for parties.

Serving Suggestions

When serving your Vanilla Hazelnut Iced Frappé, presentation matters. Serve it in tall, clear glasses to showcase the beautiful layers, and always top with a generous swirl of whipped cream. I love adding a few whole hazelnuts on top for texture and visual appeal, but chocolate shavings can also add that extra touch of indulgence.

Pair your frappé with a light dessert, such as biscotti or a slice of cake, to balance out the drink's richness. This can make for a delightful afternoon treat or a sophisticated addition to a brunch spread.

Storage Tips

While it's best enjoyed fresh, if you end up with leftover frappé, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Keep in mind it may separate, so give it a good shake or stir before serving again. However, the ice will dilute the flavor over time, so it’s ideal to make just enough for your immediate needs.

If you're looking to make the coffee base ahead of time, cold brew can be stored in the fridge for up to two weeks. Prepare the hazelnut and vanilla syrups in advance as well; homemade syrups can last for a month in the refrigerator, providing easy access for spontaneous frappé cravings.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your frappé turns out too watery, it's likely that you added too much milk relative to the ice. To fix this balance, simply blend in more ice and ensure you're using high-quality cold brew coffee to enhance the flavor without needing to increase the liquid volume. Remember that the ice will melt slightly during blending; a good guideline is to keep an eye on the texture halfway through blending.

In case your frappé isn’t sweet enough, remember that both the hazelnut and vanilla syrups are key players in building flavor. If adjusting these doesn’t yield the desired sweetness, consider adding a pinch of sugar or using sweeter flavored syrups. Start small, then blend and taste until you achieve the right balance.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular coffee instead of cold brew?

Yes, but cold brew is smoother and less acidic, which works better for this recipe.

→ What can I use as a substitute for hazelnut syrup?

Almond syrup or any nut-flavored syrup can work, though it will alter the flavor profile slightly.

→ How can I make this vegan?

Simply use a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk, and check that your syrups are vegan.

→ Can I add protein to this drink?

Absolutely! Adding a scoop of protein powder can be a great way to increase the nutritional value.