If you’ve never had pandan before, get ready for a new favorite! This Pandan Coconut Frappe is creamy, cool, and just the right amount of sweet.
Think of it like a tropical milkshake, but with an earthy vanilla flavor from pandan and a smooth coconut finish.
It’s my go-to when I want something a little fancy but super easy to whip up. No baking, no fuss—just blend and sip.
🥥 What You’ll Need
- 1/4 cup pandan syrup (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup canned coconut milk (full-fat)
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1 1/2 cups ice cubes
- 1 tbsp sweetened condensed milk (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1 tsp shredded coconut (for topping)
- Bamboo or paper straw (optional, for serving)
🧠 Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Coconut milk has natural fats that make the drink extra creamy. Pandan has compounds that give off a vanilla-like aroma, which pairs perfectly with the sweet coconut. Blending the ice gives it that frappe texture—kind of like a slushy milkshake.
🍃 Why I Love This Recipe
There’s something magical about pandan. I grew up with pandan in desserts, so this drink always brings me back to home. Plus:
- It takes 5 minutes. That’s it.
- The color is show-stopping.
- It’s dairy-optional and naturally gluten-free.
- Perfect on a hot day (or any day honestly).
- It feels like a treat, but it’s simple and not overly sweet.
Servings & Time
Servings: 2
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: None
Total Time: 5 minutes
🍽 Tools You’ll Need
- Blender
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Glasses for serving
- Straw (optional)
🔁 Substitutions & Variations
- Use almond or oat milk instead of coconut for a lighter taste.
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert-style version.
- Use honey or maple syrup instead of condensed milk.
- Skip the condensed milk for less sweetness.
⏱ Make Ahead Tips
You can make the pandan syrup ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Just shake before using.
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Add pandan syrup to blender
2. Pour in coconut milk
3. Add cold water and sweetened condensed milk
4. Toss in the ice cubes
5. Blend until smooth and frothy
6. Pour into glasses and top with shredded coconut
💡 Pro Tips
- Chill your glasses before pouring for extra frostiness.
- Use full-fat coconut milk—the creamy texture makes a big difference.
- Blend longer than you think—you want it really smooth and airy.
- Taste before serving to adjust sweetness.
- Add a pinch of salt if your coconut milk is unsweetened—it brings out the flavors.
🧊 Leftovers & Storage
This drink is best fresh, but if you have extra, store it in a jar in the fridge for up to 1 day. Shake it up and re-blend with a few ice cubes before serving again.
🍱 Meal Plan Ideas
- Serve this as a dessert drink after a light dinner like grilled chicken and rice.
- Pair it with a tropical brunch—think mango, sticky rice, and fruit salad.
- Sip it while making spring rolls or other Southeast Asian dishes.
❌ Common Mistakes
- Using too much ice—it waters it down.
- Skipping the blend time—it won’t get that nice fluffy frappe texture.
- Using low-fat coconut milk—it just won’t be as creamy.
- Forgetting to taste before serving—everyone’s sweetness level is different!
🍽 What to Serve With
- Thai sticky rice with mango
- Coconut pancakes
- Vietnamese spring rolls
- Light chicken satay
- Banana fritters
❓ FAQ
Can I use fresh pandan leaves instead of syrup?
Yes! Just boil chopped pandan leaves with water and sugar, then strain to make your own syrup.
Is this vegan?
It can be—just skip the condensed milk or use a plant-based one.
Can I make it ahead?
You can prep the syrup and chill the coconut milk, but blend it fresh for best texture.
Do I need a high-speed blender?
Not really. Any blender that crushes ice will do the job.
🥰 Let’s Make It!
This Pandan Coconut Frappe is simple, gorgeous, and so satisfying. Whether you’re making it to cool off or just to try something new, you’re gonna love it. Give it a go and leave a comment—tell me how yours turned out, and ask any questions you’ve got. I’d love to hear from you!