Cappuccinos and Frappuccinos are notoriously confusing. The same drink can be sold in different coffee shops as a cap or a frappe. Usually, you have to pay more for one than the other as well. But what is the difference between a Cappuccino and a Frappuccino? And which one should you choose?
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What Is the Difference Between a Cappuccino and a Frappuccino?
The difference between a cappuccino and a frappuccino is how they are prepared. A cappuccino is a hot coffee drink made with a shot of espresso, equal amounts of steamed milk, and foam, and is usually topped with a layer of frothy milk foam. In contrast, a frappuccino is a Starbucks trademarked cold-blended coffee beverage that comes in several different flavors.
![A cup of cappuccino in a blue mug placed on a blue saucer with a spiral notebook and a black ballpen on a brown wooden table](https://fueledbycoffee.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/bettersip-difference-between-cappuccino-and-frappuccino-02-1024x682.jpg)
A cappuccino is generally smaller than a frappuccino because it contains less ice cream or froth than its larger counterpart. A cappuccino should also be more robust regarding flavor because there is more espresso than ice cream in this particular type of drink.
Serving Size
The first difference between a cappuccino and a frappuccino is size. Cappuccinos are usually smaller than frappuccinos, though the size of each depends on the establishment where you order them.
For instance, a large cappuccino at Starbucks is around 12 ounces, while grande or venti frappuccinos are 16 and 20 ounces, respectively. The amount of milk in each drink also varies depending on its size.
Temperature
The drink’s temperature is the main difference between a cappuccino and a frappuccino. A cappuccino is served hot, while a frappuccino is served cold.
Sugar Content
Another significant difference between a cappuccino and a frappuccino is the sugar and fat content. A frappuccino is loaded with sugar. On the other hand, a cappuccino contains only 0.07 ounces of added sugar per 8-ounce serving and none for a 12-ounce serving. That’s about one teaspoon of added sugar for an 8-ounce drink, or none if you choose a decaf version.
Which to Choose: Cappuccinos or Frappuccinos?
Cappuccinos and Frappuccinos are both great drinks. They taste delicious, have a similar look, and are available at Starbucks. They both have pros and cons, though which is the best?
If You Want Something Sweet, Choose a Frappuccino!
These drinks have more sugar than Cappuccinos, so they are sweeter and more dessert-like. They also have more calories than regular coffee drinks, so if you’re watching your weight, you might want to steer clear of these!
If You Want Something More Filling, Choose a Cappuccino!
A cappuccino will give you more caffeine and protein, which keeps you fuller for longer than just drinking milk alone. You’ll also get less fat because there isn’t any ice cream in your drink (although some people prefer this). The only disadvantage with this choice is that there aren’t many different varieties available.
![A frappuccino with whipped cream drizzled with chocolate syrup in a mason jar placed on a white surface](https://fueledbycoffee.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/bettersip-difference-between-cappuccino-and-frappuccino-01-683x1024.jpg)
If You’re Trying to Impress Someone, Order a Frappuccino!
It’s more expensive and looks cooler on Instagram. The Cappuccino is like a regular coffee with cream, while the Frappuccino has an extra chocolate drizzle and comes in many different flavors (like mocha).
Other differences include
- If you’re looking for a hot drink that will help keep you warm on a cold day, then a Cappuccino is what you want.
- If you’re looking for something to cool down with and don’t mind sacrificing some flavor in exchange for convenience and more calories, go with a Frappuccino.
- If you’re trying not to spend too much money – get a cappuccino! It’s cheaper than the Frappuccino and will give you the same amount of caffeine and a similar taste.
Related Questions
Is a Frappuccino the Same as an Iced Cappuccino?
A frappuccino is a blended coffee drink made with espresso and milk, topped with whipped cream, chocolate, or caramel syrup, and drizzled with chocolate syrup. It’s served in a tall glass. An iced cappuccino is a hot coffee beverage made with espresso and steamed milk shaken together until frothy. It’s served in a small glass with ice cubes floating on top.
Which Has More Caffeine: Frappuccino or Cappuccino?
The frappuccino has more caffeine than the cappuccino. A small serving of a Frappuccino made with whole milk, whipped cream, and caramel syrup contains 130 mg of caffeine. A typical cappuccino with 2 percent milk, no whipped cream, and no caramel syrup contains 105 mg of caffeine.
Conclusion
A cappuccino is made with a single shot of espresso and equal amounts of steamed milk and foam. It’s served hot; a frappuccino is cold and comes in several different flavors. Some notable differences between the drinks include serving size, coffee makeup, and sugar content.