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 milk (or almond milk); 1/2 cup vanilla ice cream; 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk; 1 cup ice cubes

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love the rich and bold flavors of Vietnamese coffee, and combining it with vanilla in a frappe creates a delightful drink that’s perfect for a hot day. The smoothness of the vanilla pairs beautifully with the strong coffee, making it a refreshing pick-me-up. I've experimented with different ratios to find the perfect balance, and trust me, this one is a keeper! With just a few ingredients, you can whip up this delicious treat at home and impress your friends or even treat yourself after a long day.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-09T16:33:27.255Z

During my quest for the perfect summer beverage, I stumbled upon the delightful combination of Vietnamese coffee and vanilla. The use of condensed milk not only sweetens the coffee but adds a creaminess that elevates the drink. I often add a touch of ice cream to make it even more indulgent!

One key tip I discovered is to brew the coffee strong and let it cool before blending, as this helps in achieving the perfect texture without diluting the flavor. It’s like a coffee shop experience right at home!

You Will Love This Recipe Because
Bold and rich Vietnamese coffee flavor
Creamy vanilla undertones for a luscious finish
Perfectly refreshing for warm weather

Perfecting the Coffee Base

The cornerstone of this Vietnamese Coffee Vanilla Frappe is, of course, the coffee. As you're making this drink, it's crucial to use a robustly brewed Vietnamese coffee. Look for dark roast coffee that has been brewed using a traditional phin filter for an authentic flavor. After brewing, allow it to cool to room temperature to prevent melting the ice too quickly, which can dilute the frappe's richness.

When mixing, consider using a coffee-to-milk ratio you enjoy best. If you're looking for an even bolder taste, feel free to adjust the amount of coffee; just remember that a stronger coffee adds depth but can also alter the balance of flavors with the vanilla and ice cream. This fine-tuning can be an enjoyable part of creating your perfect frappe.

Achieving the Right Texture

Blending is where the magic happens in achieving that luscious texture. Blend the ingredients on high speed until they're smooth and creamy, which typically takes about 30-45 seconds. If you find the mix too thick or your blender is struggling, adding a little more milk can help achieve a silky consistency without compromising the flavor. Aim for a texture that's thick enough to hold up a spoon but still drinkable through a straw.

After blending, take a moment to taste your frappe before serving. If you desire extra sweetness or a more intense vanilla flavor, this is your chance to stir in an additional tablespoon of sweetened condensed milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Balancing sweetness is important to create a drink that accentuates the coffee rather than overwhelms it.

Customizing Your Frappe

This recipe is versatile, allowing for various adaptations to suit your preferences. If you're looking for a dairy-free version, simply substitute the milk with almond or oat milk and use a plant-based ice cream. The flavor profiles still resonate beautifully with the coffee, and you'll maintain that creamy mouthfeel.

For those who enjoy a unique twist, consider incorporating flavors like a hint of cinnamon or a splash of vanilla extract for extra depth. You can even throw in some chocolate syrup or caramel drizzle over the top for indulgence. Experimenting with flavors can make each frappe a new delight, so don’t hesitate to get creative!

Ingredients

For the Frappe

2 cups strong brewed Vietnamese coffee, cooled
1 cup milk (or almond milk)
1/2 cup vanilla ice cream
2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
1 cup ice cubes

Instructions

Blend the Ingredients

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

Serve

Pour the frappe into tall glasses and enjoy immediately, or top with whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Pro Tips

Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less condensed milk to your taste. Adding a sprinkle of cocoa on top can enhance the flavor even more.

Serving Suggestions

This Vietnamese Coffee Vanilla Frappe can be served as a delightful treat on warm days or as a refreshing pick-me-up in the afternoon. Pair it with a light snack, like tropical fruit or a flaky pastry, to balance the bold flavors. If you're hosting friends, consider setting up a little coffee bar where they can customize their frappes with different toppings like crushed nuts, chocolate shavings, or whipped cream.

Serving in tall, clear glasses not only showcases the gorgeous creamy layers but also elevates the overall presentation. You can garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or chocolate curls to give it a stunning finish. A bright straw completes the ensemble and makes for an inviting drink you can’t wait to sip.

Storage and Keeping

If you find yourself with leftover frappe, you can store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a week. Just ensure it's well-mixed before freezing, as separation can occur. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it thaw for about 15-20 minutes or blend it again with a splash of milk to revive the creamy texture.

However, it’s best enjoyed fresh, as the ice cream and ice cubes contribute to its overall texture. Keeping your ingredients prepped, or even brewed coffee on hand, can minimize the time it takes to whip up your next batch, ensuring you can quickly treat yourself after a long day.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your frappe ends up too thin after blending, try adding more ice cubes and blending again until you reach the desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thick, incorporate a splash more milk to loosen it up, striking the perfect balance. Remember, a creamy frappe should hold its form but still be easy to sip.

Additionally, if the flavors seem off, consider how your coffee was brewed. Over-extracting coffee can lead to bitterness, while under-extraction might leave it tasting too weak. Adjust your brewing method next time, and paying attention to steeping times can make a significant difference in the final flavor profile of your drink.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular coffee instead of Vietnamese coffee?

Yes, but using Vietnamese coffee gives a unique depth of flavor. A strong brew is important.

→ Can I make this without ice cream?

Absolutely! You can use a little more milk or add frozen yogurt for a lighter version.

→ Can I store leftovers?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can store it in the fridge for a few hours. Just stir well before serving.

→ Is this drink suitable for kids?

Yes, it can be made without the coffee or with decaf coffee for a kid-friendly version!