Frappe Vs. Frappuccino: One Is Definitely Better Than the Other ...

on May 11, 2010 at 9:49 AM

If you've had a chance to sample the McDonald's Frappe, you may have been surprised to discover just how similar it is to the Starbucks Frappuccino. (This could be why Starbucks felt the need to lure brand-ambivalent frozen coffee drink fans with its half-price Frappuccino deal.)

So how do the beverages compare exactly? We looked at calorie info, price, and of course, taste to determine which is better: The Frappe or the Frappuccino.

Beverage: McCafe Mocha Frappe, 16 oz.

Price: $2.79 plus tax.

Nutrition: 560 calories; 24 grams of fat; 70 grams of sugar.

Overall: How does the Frappe taste? Pretty darn good ... and if you don't believe me: The proof is in the caloric information. More of a milkshake than a refreshing coffee drink, the Frappe is rich and creamy with minimal coffee taste.

Beverage: Starbucks Mocha Frappuccino, 16 oz.

Price: $4.03

Nutrition: 370 calories; 15 grams of fat; 54 grams of sugar.

Overall: Compared to the Frappe, the Frappuccino is practically a diet drink -- and you can tell; it just tastes ... well, anemic ... with less cream, less richness, less heft, more ice. A plus? Intense coffee flavor -- this is a coffee drink, after all.

The verdict? I'm going for the Frappe based on taste alone -- but I'm going to hate myself for the rest of the day.

Which do you prefer: Frappe or Frappuccino?

About the author Kim Conte

has shoes that make people stop her on the street and ask "Where did you get those?" but it doesn't work for taxi cabs as she was hit by one ... and lived to tell the tale. She has more freckles than Lohan but way less attitude. And she's a fierce cook with tons of recipes to share -- and wishes she could share some with Bourdain.

Filed Under: desserts, drinks, eating out, food, products, trends

Comments (24)

Cafe MicheleZ

on May 11, 2010 at 10:18 AM

I'm currently obsessed with the Frappe. The price! Now I want one. Thanks A LOT! :)

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jagamama0710

on May 11, 2010 at 10:34 AM

Oh I am so addicted to the Frappe it's ridiculous. Caramel is my favorite. I see the signs that say "come try our caramel frappe!" and it's all I can do to not say "why yes I will!" and turn into that drive thru. I do limit it to one (ok sometimes 2) a week though. I actually got one while I was in the beginning of labor back in February. lol

RanaAurora

on May 11, 2010 at 11:26 AM

You can ask them to put more of the "coffee" flavor in the Starbucks version. But I agree. It tastes off. It's... I hate to say it... it's gross. I'm sticking with a green tea frappachino or an iced latte from Starbucks.

CjsMama914

on May 11, 2010 at 12:21 PM

I just don't like the McDonald's version. I don't really know why, they just don't taste right to me. I've tried them a couple times and I'll stick to Starbucks.

lovinangels

on May 11, 2010 at 1:12 PM

I'll frappacinno light and save my fat azz from getting any fatter.

momoflilangel

on May 11, 2010 at 2:17 PM

I prefer the Frappuccino from Starbuck's. The Frappe is too milkhake-y to me.

Momof3cuties

on May 11, 2010 at 5:08 PM

I am a frappe addict! Once I had the first one the cravings began! Let's just say when I cave into those cravings...I either opt for a smaller one one or take an extra long walk that evening....after having worked out at the gym for an hour. I love them!!!