Do Starbucks Frappuccinos Have Caffeine?
If you’ve ever grabbed a sweet, icy Frappuccino from Starbucks, you might’ve wondered is there caffeine in this? It’s a fair question, especially if you’re trying to watch your caffeine intake or you’re ordering for someone sensitive to it.
The answer? Some Frappuccinos have caffeine. Some don’t. It all depends on the type of Frappuccino you order, and today, we’re breaking it all down for you.
What Exactly Is a Frappuccino?
Frappuccinos are Starbucks famous line of blended drinks part milkshake, part coffee, part dessert. There are two main kinds:
Coffee-based Frappuccinos. These are made with a special coffee blend called Frappuccino Roast. If you’re looking for a little energy, this is your go-to.
Crème-based Frappuccinos. These don’t include coffee (unless the ingredients naturally have caffeine, like matcha or chocolate). They’re great for kids or if you’re avoiding caffeine.
Popular Starbucks Frappuccinos: Caffeine & Calorie Guide
If you’re trying to figure out which Frappuccinos have caffeine — and how much — this table breaks it all down for you. These numbers are based on a Grande (16 oz) size, which is the most commonly ordered.
| Frappuccino Flavor | Base Type | Caffeine | Calories (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mocha Frappuccino® | Coffee-based | 100 mg | ~370 |
| Caramel Frappuccino® | Coffee-based | 90 mg | ~380 |
| Java Chip Frappuccino® | Coffee-based | 105 mg | ~440 |
| Espresso Frappuccino® | Coffee-based | 155 mg | ~250 |
| Coffee Frappuccino® | Coffee-based | 95 mg | ~230 |
| Vanilla Bean Crème Frappuccino® | Crème-based | 0 mg | ~380 |
| Strawberry Crème Frappuccino® | Crème-based | 0 mg | ~370 |
| Matcha Green Tea Frappuccino® | Crème-based | 70 mg* | ~420 |
| Double Chocolaty Chip Frappuccino® | Crème-based | 15 mg* | ~410 |
How to Choose a Frappuccino Based on Caffeine
Want More Caffeine?
Go for one of these:
- Espresso Frappuccino – Packs the biggest punch
- Java Chip – Chocolate + coffee = double the buzz
- Add an espresso shot – +75 mg caffeine
- Ask for extra Frappuccino Roast – Your barista can add more if you want it stronger
- Want Less (or No) Caffeine?
- Try one of these:
- Vanilla Bean Crème – No coffee, no caffeine
- Strawberry Crème – All sweet, no buzz
- White Chocolate Crème – Creamy, caffeine-free
- Ask for decaf or half-caff – Not every store offers it, but it’s worth asking
Why Caffeine Levels Matter
f you’re someone who gets shaky after too much caffeine, or you’re ordering for a child or teen, it’s important to know what’s in your cup. While a single Frappuccino won’t push you over the edge, some of them can come close, especially if you add espresso or drink them along with other caffeinated beverages.
The FDA suggests no more than 400 mg of caffeine a day for most adults. One Grande Espresso Frappuccino already has 155 mg.
You Can Customize Almost Everything
One of the best parts of ordering from Starbucks is how much you can personalize your drink. You can:
- Add or remove espresso shots
- Choose the milk (nonfat, almond, oat, etc.)
- Reduce the number of Frappuccino Roast pumps
- Skip the whipped cream or drizzle
- Adjust the sweetness
And if you want to know exactly how many calories or how much caffeine is in your drink, you can use our Starbucks Calorie Calculator. It lets you build your custom drink and see the nutrition instantly, super helpful if you’re watching your intake.
Quick Tips: Frappuccino Cheat Sheet
High Caffeine Options:
- Espresso Frappuccino
- Java Chip Frappuccino
- Mocha Frappuccino (classic!)
- Low or No Caffeine Options:
- Vanilla Bean Crème
- Strawberry Crème
- White Chocolate Crème
- Double Chocolaty Chip (low caffeine, not zero)
Final Thoughts
Frappuccino’s are fun, customizable, and can be as caffeinated (or not) as you want. If you like a little energy with your sweetness, go for the coffee-based ones. If you just want a treat, the crème-based options are a perfect pick.
The key is knowing what you’re drinking. And thanks to tools like the Starbucks Calorie Calculator, it’s easier than ever to find out what’s in your cup before you take a sip.
