Cool. Creamy. Naturally sweet. A berry swirl fantasy in a cup.
Description
This Strawberry Cream Frappuccino is the perfect sweet, icy treat to cool down and satisfy your inner child — with luscious strawberry puree swirled through rich milk and topped with clouds of whipped cream.
It’s like a milkshake, smoothie, and dessert all in one — and it doesn’t need any artificial flavors or syrups. Just real strawberries, a splash of maple or honey, and your favorite milk base.
Whether you’re craving a Starbucks dupe or just want a gorgeous pink drink to brighten your day, this recipe delivers with whole-food ingredients and optional dairy-free swaps.
Servings: 2 large frappes (16–20 oz each)
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Blend Time: 1 minute
Total Time: 6–7 minutes
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 20 fresh strawberries (~1¼ cups), hulled
- 2 cups whole milk (or almond, oat, coconut milk)
- ¼ cup maple syrup (or honey/agave, adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional for creaminess)
- 1–2 cups ice (depending on desired thickness)
Optional Add-Ins:
- 2 scoops vanilla ice cream (for milkshake-style richness)
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt (for creamier texture & protein boost)
- 2 tbsp heavy cream (for extra indulgence)
Topping:
- Whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
- Chocolate curls, freeze-dried strawberry dust, or fresh sliced berries
Instructions
🔻 STEP 1: Make the Strawberry Puree
- Add strawberries, maple syrup, and a splash of milk to a blender.
- Blend until completely smooth.
- Optional: Pour into a small jar and refrigerate for 5–10 minutes to chill.
Pro Tip: Save a few tablespoons to swirl into the sides of your glass for a café-style look.
🔻 STEP 2: Blend the Frappuccino Base
- Rinse your blender and add:
- 2 cups milk
- ½ of the strawberry puree
- Ice (start with 1 cup, then adjust)
- Vanilla, ice cream, or Greek yogurt if using
- Blend on high until thick, creamy, and frothy.
- Taste and adjust sweetness or thickness.
🔻 STEP 3: Assemble & Serve
- Drizzle strawberry puree along the sides of each serving glass.
- Pour in the frappuccino base.
- Top generously with whipped cream.
- Garnish with a whole strawberry, sprinkles, or freeze-dried fruit powder.
For extra flair: Add chocolate drizzle or a dollop of jam on top of the cream.
Customization Ideas
| Goal | Swap or Add |
|---|---|
| Vegan | Use oat milk + coconut whip + maple syrup |
| Low-Sugar | Use monk fruit or skip syrup entirely |
| Protein Boost | Add 1 scoop vanilla protein powder or Greek yogurt |
| Dessert Mode | Add 2 scoops vanilla ice cream or 2 tbsp sweetened condensed milk |
| Keto-Friendly | Use unsweetened almond milk + stevia + berries in moderation |
Storage
- Best consumed immediately after blending.
- You can store the strawberry puree in the fridge for 3–4 days in an airtight jar.
- Freeze leftover frappe base into popsicle molds for creamy strawberry pops!
Nutrition Estimate (Per 16 oz serving – with whole milk & syrup)
- Calories: ~240
- Protein: 6g
- Carbs: 30g
- Sugar: 20g
- Fat: 8g
Can vary depending on milk choice and sweetener.
Topping & Garnish Options
- Chocolate shavings or drizzle
- Strawberry jam swirl
- Crushed freeze-dried berries
- Granola or chia seeds for crunch
- Coconut cream and berry compote
Storytime
This recipe came from a summer craving. I wanted something sweet, fruity, and refreshing — but without the $7 price tag or fake syrups. I had strawberries in the fridge, some milk, and a blender. The result was better than anything I’d ordered before: thick, cold, naturally sweet, with that creamy strawberry-ice cream vibe I used to love as a kid.
Now, it’s a family favorite. My kids call it the “pink ice cloud.” I call it a sip of sunshine.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes! You may need less ice and a bit more liquid to blend smoothly.
Can I skip the sweetener?
Totally! Ripe strawberries often provide enough sweetness on their own.
How can I make it thicker?
Use more ice or add frozen banana, ice cream, or Greek yogurt.
Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best fresh, but you can pre-blend and refrigerate. Shake or blend briefly before serving.