Name: Chocolate Protein Frappe (Starbucks Copycat)
Prep time: 3 min
Total time: 3 min
Yield: 1 large frappe (16 oz)
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 scoop chocolate whey protein powder; 1 cup cold brew or strong chilled coffee; 1/2 cup milk (dairy or almond); 1 1/2 cups ice; 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon sugar-free chocolate syrup (optional); Whipped cream for topping (optional)

Question 1

How does this compare to the Starbucks Mocha Frappuccino?

Accepted Answer

A grande Starbucks Mocha Frappuccino has about 5g of protein and 50g of sugar. This recipe delivers 32g of protein and roughly 8g of sugar for the same 16 oz volume.

Question 2

Do I need a high-powered blender?

Accepted Answer

Not strictly, but it helps. A Vitamix or Ninja crushes the ice into a smooth slush. A standard blender works, you just need to blend for an extra 20 seconds and may end up with some larger ice chunks.

Question 3

Can I make it caffeine-free?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Swap the coffee for cold decaf or replace it entirely with 1 cup of chocolate almond milk. The protein and the cocoa carry the flavor either way.

Question 4

Which protein powder works best?

Accepted Answer

A rich chocolate whey concentrate or blend, like Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Chocolate or Quest Chocolate Milkshake. Avoid plain or vanilla, the cocoa needs reinforcement.

Question 5

Why is mine watery?

Accepted Answer

Either too little ice or too much liquid. Stick to a 3:2 ratio of ice to liquid by volume. If you need to thicken a finished frappe, add 1/2 cup more ice and blend for another 15 seconds.

Chocolate Protein Frappe (Starbucks Copycat, 32g Protein)