Are you looking for a delicious and refreshing drink to cool down on a hot summer day? Look no further than frozen coffee! This tasty treat is the perfect combination of iced coffee and a creamy, frozen texture. Whether you’re a fan of Dunkin’ frozen coffee or prefer Starbucks’ frozen drinks, there’s something for everyone to love about these icy beverages.
In this article, VINUT will dive into the world of frozen coffee and explore everything from its origins to the best places to find it near you.
What is Frozen Coffee?
Frozen coffee, also known as blended coffee, is a popular drink made by blending ice, coffee, milk, and sweeteners together. It has become a staple in many coffee shops and can be found on the menus of major chains such as Dunkin’ Donuts and Starbucks. The drink is typically served in a large cup topped with whipped cream and drizzled with chocolate or caramel sauce. It’s the perfect way to satisfy your coffee cravings while staying cool.
The Origins of This Coffee
The history of frozen coffee dates back to the early 1950s when a man named Robert N. McLendon Jr. invented the first blender. He used his invention to mix instant coffee, sugar, water, and ice to create a slushy-like drink that he called “Instant Iced Coffee.” Fast forward to 1963, and the first Coffee Slushie machine was created by John E. Rosencrans, which became an instant hit at convenience stores. However, it wasn’t until the 1990s that this kind of coffee became mainstream with the introduction of Frappuccinos at Starbucks.
Frozen Coffee
Frozen coffee, also known as blended coffee, is a popular drink made by blending ice, coffee, milk, and sweeteners together. It has become a staple in many coffee shops and can be found on the menus of major chains such as Dunkin’ Donuts and Starbucks. The drink is typically served in a large cup topped with whipped cream and drizzled with chocolate or caramel sauce. It’s the perfect way to satisfy your coffee cravings while staying cool.
The Origins of Frozen Coffee
The history of frozen coffee dates back to the early 1950s when a man named Robert N. McLendon Jr. invented the first blender. He used his invention to mix instant coffee, sugar, water, and ice to create a slushy-like drink that he called “Instant Iced Coffee.” Fast forward to 1963, and the first Coffee Slushie machine was created by John E. Rosencrans, which became an instant hit at convenience stores. However, it wasn’t until the 1990s that frozen coffee became mainstream with the introduction of Frappuccinos at Starbucks.
Why You Should Try Frozen Coffee
Frozen coffee is not only delicious, but it also offers several advantages over traditional hot coffee. For one, it’s the perfect way to cool down on a hot day while still getting your caffeine fix. The blended texture also makes it easier for the body to digest, giving you a quick energy boost without feeling too jittery. Plus, with various flavors and toppings available, you can customize your frozen coffee to your liking, making it the perfect drink for everyone.
Dunkin’ Frozen Coffee
Dunkin’ Donuts is a popular coffee chain known for its delicious donuts and freshly brewed coffee. In recent years, they have expanded their menu to include frozen coffee options, making it a go-to spot for those looking for a refreshing drink. Let’s take a closer look at some of the must-try frozen coffee options at Dunkin’.
Original Blend Frozen Coffee
The Original Blend Frozen Coffee is a classic frozen coffee made with Dunkin’s signature coffee blend, blended with ice, and topped with whipped cream. It offers the perfect balance of sweetness and coffee flavor, making it a fan favorite.
Oreo Frozen Coffee
For all the Oreo lovers out there, this one’s for you! The Oreo Frozen Coffee is a delicious blend of chocolatey goodness, coffee, and ice, topped with whipped cream and Oreo crumbles. It’s a decadent treat that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Oreo Frozen Coffee Ingredients:
- 1 cup of Dunkin’ original blend coffee
- 2 cups of ice
- 2 tablespoons of chocolate sauce
- 2 tablespoons of Oreo cookie crumbles
- 1/2 cup of milk
- Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
- Brew 1 cup of Dunkin’ original blend coffee and let it cool.
- In a blender, combine the cooled coffee, 2 cups of ice, 2 tablespoons of chocolate sauce, 2 tablespoons of Oreo cookie crumbles, and 1/2 cup of milk.
- Blend until smooth.
- Pour into a cup and top with whipped cream and extra Oreo crumbles.
- Enjoy your homemade Oreo Frozen Coffee!
Dunkin Donuts Frozen Coffee
If you’re in the mood for something extra special, Dunkin’ Donuts also offers a range of frozen coffee drinks that are perfect for any occasion. From fruity blends to indulgent treats, let’s explore some of their top frozen coffee options.
Vanilla Bean Coolatta
The Vanilla Bean Coolatta is a classic Coolatta flavor blended with Dunkin’s signature coffee and topped with whipped cream. It’s the perfect mix of vanilla and coffee, making it a refreshing treat.
Frozen Arnold Palmer
For a twist on a classic beverage, try Dunkin’s Frozen Arnold Palmer. It’s a blend of lemonade and iced tea, with a splash of frozen coffee for an added caffeine kick. It’s the perfect drink for those who enjoy a little bit of everything.
Frozen Arnold Palmer Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of Dunkin’ original blend coffee
- 1/2 cup of lemonade
- 1/2 cup of iced tea
- 1 cup of ice
- Sugar (optional)
- Lemon wedge for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Brew 1/2 cup of Dunkin’ original blend coffee and let it cool.
- In a blender, combine the cooled coffee, 1/2 cup of lemonade, 1/2 cup of iced tea, and 1 cup of ice.
- Blend until smooth.
- Taste and add sugar if desired.
- Pour into a glass and garnish with a lemon wedge.
- Enjoy your Frozen Arnold Palmer!
Finding Frozen Coffee Near Me
Now that we’ve explored some of the top frozen coffee options at Dunkin’, you may be wondering where you can find these delicious drinks near you. The good news is that most major coffee chains, including Dunkin’ Donuts and Starbucks, offer frozen coffee options on their menus. You can also use the store locator on their websites to find the nearest location.
If you prefer homemade frozen coffee, there are also plenty of recipes online that you can try in the comfort of your own home. All you need is a blender and some basic ingredients, and you’ll be sipping on a refreshing frozen coffee in no time.
Starbucks Frozen Drinks
One of the pioneers of frozen coffee, Starbucks has an extensive menu of blended drinks that have become a fan favorite. From Frappuccinos to Cold Brew Floats, here are some must-try frozen coffee options at Starbucks.
Caramel Ribbon Crunch Frappuccino
The Caramel Ribbon Crunch Frappuccino is a decadent blend of caramel syrup and coffee, topped with whipped cream, caramel drizzle, and crunchy caramel ribbon pieces. It’s the perfect balance of sweetness and coffee flavor, making it a popular choice among Starbucks fans.
Salted Caramel Mocha Frappuccino
For those who enjoy a little bit of saltiness in their sweet treats, the Salted Caramel Mocha Frappuccino is the perfect drink. It combines coffee, mocha sauce, and toffee nut syrup, topped with whipped cream, caramel drizzle, and a sprinkle of sea salt. It’s a delicious mix of flavors that will satisfy any craving.
Salted Caramel Mocha Frappuccino Ingredients:
- 1 cup of Starbucks cold brew coffee
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 2 tablespoons of chocolate syrup
- 2 tablespoons of toffee nut syrup
- 1 cup of ice
- Whipped cream (optional)
- Caramel sauce (optional)
- Sea salt (optional)
Instructions:
- Brew 1 cup of Starbucks cold brew coffee and let it cool.
- In a blender, combine the cooled coffee, 1/2 cup of milk, 2 tablespoons of chocolate syrup, 2 tablespoons of toffee nut syrup, and 1 cup of ice.
- Blend until smooth.
- Taste and add more syrup if desired.
- Pour into a glass and top with whipped cream, caramel sauce, and a sprinkle of sea salt.
- Enjoy your homemade Salted Caramel Mocha Frappuccino!
FAQs About Frozen Coffee
As with any popular drink, there are often questions that arise. Here are some frequently asked questions about frozen coffee.
What is the difference between a Frappuccino and a Coolatta?
A Frappuccino is a blended drink made with coffee or espresso, while a Coolatta is a slushie-like drink made with water and flavoring. They may have similar flavors, but their base ingredients make them different drinks.
Are frozen coffee drinks suitable for children?
Frozen coffee drinks typically contain caffeine, so parents should use their discretion when deciding if it’s appropriate for their child to consume. Some coffee shops also offer decaffeinated options for those who want to enjoy a frozen coffee without the caffeine.
Can I customize my frozen coffee at a coffee shop?
Yes, most coffee shops allow you to customize your frozen coffee with different flavors, milks, and toppings. Don’t be afraid to ask the barista for your preferred modifications.
Is frozen coffee considered a dessert or a coffee drink?
It can be both! Some frozen coffee drinks, like Frappuccinos, are often seen as indulgent treats, while others, like Cold Brew Floats, can be considered a caffeinated beverage.
Are there any dairy-free options for frozen coffee?
Yes, many coffee shops offer non-dairy milk alternatives such as almond, coconut, or oat milk for those who are lactose intolerant or prefer a plant-based option.
Conclusion
Frozen coffee has come a long way since its invention in the 1950s. From convenience store slushies to Starbucks’ iconic Frappuccinos, this refreshing drink has become a staple for many coffee lovers during hot summer days. Whether you prefer Dunkin’ frozen coffee or Starbucks’ frozen drinks, there’s no denying the popularity and deliciousness of this icy treat. So the next time you’re looking for a way to cool down and get your caffeine fix, try a frozen coffee – you won’t be disappointed!