Step-by-Step Guide: Making The Best Freddo Espresso At Home

Are you craving a refreshing pick-me-up as the sun beats down? Then look no further than the freddo espresso, the iconic iced coffee that’s a summertime essential, at least here in Greece.

While I dabbled in frappes when I was younger (tourists love them!), there’s something undeniably superior about the freddo espresso. It’s all about the rich, intense flavor of real espresso, chilled to perfection and topped with that heavenly crema layer. Unlike the instant coffee base of a frappe, the freddo offers a more nuanced and satisfying coffee experience.

I spent way too much time (and let’s be honest, euros) at cute cafes across the city perfecting my freddo order, but finally, a lovely barista at a Nespresso shop in Athens spilled the secrets on how to make this delightful drink at home perfect. So, grab your espresso maker, some ice, and get ready to become your own personal barista!

Freddo Espresso Ingredients:

• 2 shots of freshly brewed espresso (each shot has to be “stretto”, meaning a single shot that contains less water but more flavor) – Nespresso pods work great here!
• Ice cubes
• Sugar (optional)
• Splash of cold water (optional)
• Milk froth (for Freddo Cappuccino)

Nespresso Machine:

If you are thinking of getting an espresso machine that’s good quality, affordable, simple to use and doesn’t take up too much space on your kitchen counter, I would strongly suggest the Nespresso Essenza Mini. I have mine for almost 3 years now, using it at least twice a day and I simply cannot live without it.

Nespresso Frother FTW:

For those of you already rocking a Nespresso machine, their magic weapon is the Aeroccino milk frother. This little gadget is a game-changer for creating that perfect crema layer, hot or cold. But you can easily make crema (just coffee or milk) with a handheld frother.

The Freddo Flow:

• Espresso First: The foundation of a great freddo is a bold espresso base. Nespresso pods offer convenience, but freshly ground beans work just as well. Nespresso even has a unique line specifically designed for freddo, boasting high intensity flavors. Recently, I ventured outside my usual routine and tried their Coconut capsules. While coconut isn’t my usual go-to, the unexpected twist on the classic freddo was delightful. It inspired me to experiment, and now I love mixing pods – one from the original line and another flavored one – for a truly immersive coffee experience.

• Sweeten Up (Maybe): Like your coffee on the sweeter side? Now’s the time to add a teaspoon or two of sugar, depending on your preference. Remember the Greek sweetness scale: “sketo” (no sugar), “metrio” (medium – one teaspoon), and “glyko” (sweet – two teaspoons). I usually go for “metrio” and use brown sugar, but you can also put syrup instead (do you like caramel?)
• Frothing Magic (For Cappuccino Freddo): If you’re craving a creamy freddo cappuccino, here’s where the Aeroccino shines! Pop some cold milk in the frother, choose the “cold foam” setting, and let it work its magic. You want a light and airy froth, not hot and dense.
• No Frother? No Problem! Pour your hot espresso into a mug and whisk vigorously with a hand frother for 10-15 seconds until you see a nice layer of frothy crema develop.
• The Ice Bath: Fill a tall glass with fresh ice cubes.
• The Grand Cascade: Slowly pour your frothed espresso (or espresso with crema) over the ice, taking care not to lose that precious crema. Watch as the espresso creates a beautiful layered effect in the glass.
• Water or Milk? Your Call: Want to weaken it down a bit? Add a splash of cold water. Feeling fancy? For the cappuccino freddo, gently pour your cold milk froth on top of the espresso and ice. Just remember, a little goes a long way!

Bonus Tip: Invest in some cute iced coffee glasses! Presentation matters, people.

And don’t forget the straws!

And voila! Your very own Athenian-inspired freddo espresso, ready to transport you to a sunny Greek cafe with every sip. Now, find some shade, fire up some Greek music, and take a look at our guide on how to slay all day! at the beach… Oh.. Summer bliss!