You might be wondering what Starbucks frappuccino is doing as a topic on a Thrifty Thursday.  Starbucks is anything but thrifty.  Even with coupons, these little jars can cost more than I’m willing to spend.  But they are oh, so good!  So here’s my thrifty solution – make it yourself!Go out and buy yourself a pack of 4 jars (with coupons, of course) and then use those to compare with the ones you’ll make.  I’m fairly certain you won’t tell the difference.  When you’ve drained the bottles, refill them with your homemade batch and they’re ready to go when you are.

I use a 2 quart pitcher.  You can brew your own espresso (you’ll need about 4 shots) or you can do this handy shortcut – use instant.  I actually use instant decaf and I think it tastes great (and I’m a coffee purist – I don’t drink instant normally, I just keep it around for frappuccinos and baked goods).  The store brand will work just fine, too!

• 2 Tbsp of instant coffee
• 1 cup sugar (try using a sugar substitute to make it lighter)
• 1 tsp vanilla or 1 package of hot chocolate (both are optional)
• 7 cups of milk (skim will work just fine if you’re counting calories)
• 1/2 cup boiling water

Pour the sugar, instant coffee, vanilla or hot chocolate into the bottom of your 2 quart pitcher and add boiling water.  Stir to dissolve the sugar and coffee completely (if using fresh brewed espresso, you don’t need the boiling water – the espresso will dissolve the sugar).  You may need to add a bit more water if it isn’t dissolving properly.  You should have no instant coffee bits left after the dissolving process is over.  Fill the pitcher with cold milk.  You can either drink it now (the cold milk should compensate for the boiling water) or you can stick in the fridge and enjoy over the next few days.  I like to make a pitcher of this before friends come over.  On a warmer day, it’s a nice alternative to a hot cup of coffee.