The Boston frappe is a beloved drink that has been a staple in New England, particularly in Massachusetts, for decades. It’s a thick, creamy, and delicious beverage that’s perfect for hot summer days or as a pick-me-up any time of the year. But what exactly is a Boston frappe, and how does it differ from other types of milkshakes and frappes?
A Brief History of the Boston Frappe
The origins of the Boston frappe date back to the early 20th century, when it was first introduced at soda fountains and diners in the Boston area. The drink was created as a variation of the traditional milkshake, with a thicker and creamier texture. The name “frappe” is derived from the French word “frapper,” which means “to chill” or “to freeze.” Over time, the Boston frappe gained popularity throughout New England and became a beloved regional treat.
What Makes a Boston Frappe Different?
So, what sets a Boston frappe apart from other types of milkshakes and frappes? Here are a few key factors:
- Thick and creamy texture: Boston frappes are made with a combination of ice cream, milk, and a touch of air, which gives them a thick and creamy texture that’s similar to a milkshake.
- Use of ice cream: Unlike other types of frappes, which may use yogurt or other ingredients, Boston frappes are made with traditional ice cream.
- Limited flavor options: While you can find Boston frappes in a variety of flavors, the traditional options are limited to a few classic flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry.
- Regional ingredients: Many Boston frappes are made with regional ingredients, such as Hood ice cream, which is a beloved New England brand.
How to Make a Boston Frappe
Making a Boston frappe is relatively simple, and you can easily create one at home with a few basic ingredients. Here’s a recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 2 scoops of ice cream (traditional flavors like chocolate, vanilla, or strawberry work best)
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 1 tablespoon of sugar (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
- In a blender, combine the ice cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add the vanilla extract, if using, and blend for another second or two.
- Taste the frappe and adjust the sweetness or flavor as needed.
- Pour the frappe into a tall glass and serve immediately.
Tips for Making the Perfect Boston Frappe
Here are a few tips to help you create the perfect Boston frappe:
- Use high-quality ice cream: The type of ice cream you use can make a big difference in the flavor and texture of your frappe. Look for a high-quality, creamy ice cream that’s made with traditional ingredients.
- Don’t over-blend: Blending the mixture too much can result in a thin, icy texture that’s not characteristic of a traditional Boston frappe. Blend the mixture just until it’s smooth and creamy.
- Experiment with flavors: While traditional flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry are delicious, you can also experiment with other flavors like coffee, mint, or peanut butter.
Where to Find the Best Boston Frappes
If you’re looking to try a traditional Boston frappe, there are plenty of great places to find one in the Boston area. Here are a few recommendations:
- Emack & Bolio’s: This popular ice cream chain has been serving up delicious Boston frappes for decades. With multiple locations throughout the Boston area, you’re never far from a great frappe.
- Christina’s Homemade Ice Cream: This family-owned ice cream shop in Cambridge has been featured on food shows and publications around the country. Their Boston frappes are made with high-quality, homemade ice cream and are a must-try.
- Sullivan’s Castle Island: This casual, waterfront restaurant in South Boston serves up delicious Boston frappes made with Hood ice cream. It’s a great place to enjoy a frappe on a warm summer day.
Other Regional Variations
While the Boston frappe is a beloved regional treat, there are other variations of frappes that can be found throughout New England. Here are a few examples:
- New Hampshire frappe: In New Hampshire, frappes are often made with a thinner, more icy texture than traditional Boston frappes. They’re also often flavored with maple syrup or other local ingredients.
- Vermont frappe: In Vermont, frappes are often made with locally-sourced ice cream and flavored with ingredients like maple syrup, honey, or fresh berries.
Conclusion
The Boston frappe is a delicious and refreshing New England treat that’s perfect for hot summer days or as a pick-me-up any time of the year. With its thick and creamy texture, traditional flavors, and regional ingredients, it’s a drink that’s deeply rooted in the culture and history of the Boston area. Whether you’re a native New Englander or just visiting the area, a Boston frappe is a must-try treat that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
What is a Boston Frappe?
A Boston frappe is a cold and creamy dessert drink that originated in New England, particularly in Boston. It is made with ice cream, milk, and flavorings such as chocolate or strawberry, blended together to create a smooth and refreshing treat.
The Boston frappe is often confused with a milkshake, but the two are not exactly the same. While both are cold and creamy, a frappe typically has a thicker and more icy texture than a milkshake, thanks to the addition of ice and a higher ratio of ice cream to milk.
What is the difference between a Boston frappe and a milkshake?
The main difference between a Boston frappe and a milkshake is the texture. A frappe is thicker and more icy, while a milkshake is thinner and more liquidy. This is because a frappe typically contains more ice cream and less milk than a milkshake, giving it a more solid consistency.
Another difference is the way the two are blended. A frappe is typically blended with ice, which gives it a slushy texture, while a milkshake is blended without ice, resulting in a smoother and more uniform texture.
What flavors of Boston frappe are available?
Boston frappes come in a variety of flavors, including classic flavors such as chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla. Some shops and restaurants also offer more unique flavors, such as coffee, mint, and peanut butter.
In addition to these flavors, some Boston frappe shops also offer seasonal flavors, such as pumpkin and peppermint, which are available only during certain times of the year. This allows customers to try new and exciting flavors throughout the year.
Where can I find a Boston frappe?
Boston frappes can be found at a variety of shops and restaurants throughout New England, particularly in Boston and surrounding areas. Some popular places to try a Boston frappe include ice cream shops, diners, and restaurants that specialize in New England cuisine.
In addition to these physical locations, some shops and restaurants also offer Boston frappes for delivery or take-out, making it easy to enjoy this delicious treat from the comfort of your own home.
Can I make a Boston frappe at home?
Yes, it is possible to make a Boston frappe at home. To do so, you will need a few basic ingredients, including ice cream, milk, and flavorings such as chocolate or strawberry syrup. You will also need a blender, which is used to blend the ingredients together and create the thick and creamy texture of a frappe.
To make a Boston frappe at home, simply combine your ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. You can also add ice to the blender to give the frappe a thicker and more icy texture. Experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create your own unique Boston frappe recipes.
Is a Boston frappe a healthy treat?
Unfortunately, a Boston frappe is not typically considered a healthy treat. It is high in calories, sugar, and fat, thanks to the ice cream and milk used to make it. However, there are some ways to make a Boston frappe healthier, such as using low-fat ice cream and milk, or adding in healthy ingredients such as fruit or nuts.
If you are looking for a healthier alternative to a traditional Boston frappe, you might consider trying a “lighter” version made with healthier ingredients. Some shops and restaurants also offer healthier frappe options, such as those made with frozen yogurt or sorbet.
Can I customize my Boston frappe?
Yes, it is possible to customize your Boston frappe to suit your tastes. Many shops and restaurants offer a variety of toppings and mix-ins, such as whipped cream, sprinkles, and chopped nuts, which can be added to your frappe to give it extra flavor and texture.
You can also customize the flavor of your frappe by choosing from a variety of flavorings, such as chocolate, strawberry, or coffee. Some shops and restaurants also offer the option to create a “frappe flight,” which allows you to try multiple flavors at once.