A velvety, whipped coffee drink that became a worldwide sensation, Dalgona coffee pairs the boldness of instant coffee with the smooth sweetness of sugar and milk. Its frothy, cloud-like top sits beautifully over chilled or hot milk, making it as photogenic as it is delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Dalgona coffee is quick, easy, and uses pantry staples you probably already have. It’s perfect for coffee lovers who want a café-style treat without leaving home. The light, creamy foam adds a fun texture, while the milk underneath balances the strong coffee flavor. Plus, it’s a great recipe to impress guests or make your morning more special.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
-
2 tablespoons instant coffee
-
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
-
2 tablespoons hot water
-
1 cup cold milk or hot milk (depending on preference)
-
Ice cubes (optional, for iced version)
Directions
-
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the instant coffee, sugar, and hot water.
-
Using a hand mixer or whisk, beat the mixture until it becomes thick and creamy, forming stiff peaks. This may take about 3–5 minutes with an electric mixer or 8–10 minutes by hand.
-
Fill a glass with cold milk and ice cubes for an iced version, or hot milk for a warm drink.
-
Spoon the whipped coffee mixture over the milk.
-
Gently swirl before sipping, or enjoy as a layered drink.
Servings And Timing
-
Servings: 1
-
Prep time: 5–10 minutes
-
Total time: 5–10 minutes
Variations
-
Flavored Dalgona: Add a drop of vanilla extract, caramel syrup, or hazelnut syrup before whipping for extra flavor.
-
Mocha Dalgona: Mix 1 teaspoon of cocoa powder into the coffee mixture.
-
Sugar-Free Version: Replace sugar with your preferred sweetener, adjusting to taste.
-
Vegan Option: Use almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk.
Storage/Reheating
Dalgona coffee foam is best made fresh for the perfect texture. However, you can store the whipped mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Whip briefly before serving to restore volume. It cannot be reheated without losing its airy texture—if you want a hot version, make it fresh.
FAQs
1. What is Dalgona coffee?
Dalgona coffee is a whipped coffee drink made by vigorously mixing instant coffee, sugar, and hot water until fluffy, then serving over milk.
2. Can I use regular brewed coffee instead of instant coffee?
No, regular brewed coffee won’t whip properly because it lacks the concentration of instant coffee granules.
3. Do I need a mixer to make it?
A hand mixer makes it easier, but you can use a whisk—it will just take longer.
4. Can I make it without sugar?
Yes, but sugar helps stabilize the foam. Without it, the foam may deflate faster.
5. Can I make it hot?
Absolutely! Use steamed milk instead of cold milk for a warm version.
6. How long does it take to whip by hand?
Usually 8–10 minutes of vigorous whisking.
7. Can I use brown sugar?
Yes, brown sugar works, but it may slightly change the flavor and color.
8. Can I make a big batch?
Yes, whip a larger amount and store in the fridge for up to 2 days.
9. Why is it called Dalgona coffee?
It’s named after a Korean honeycomb toffee candy called “Dalgona” because the flavor is similar.
10. Is it strong in caffeine?
Yes, it’s quite strong since it uses concentrated instant coffee.
Conclusion
Dalgona coffee is more than just a trendy drink—it’s a simple yet luxurious treat that transforms basic ingredients into something special. Whether you enjoy it iced on a sunny day or hot on a cozy morning, this whipped coffee will make your coffee break feel like a mini celebration.
Print
Dalgona Coffee
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A velvety, whipped coffee drink made from instant coffee, sugar, and hot water, served over milk. Known for its creamy foam and café-style presentation, this Korean-inspired treat can be enjoyed hot or iced.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons instant coffee
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 tablespoons hot water
1 cup cold milk or hot milk (depending on preference)
Ice cubes (optional, for iced version)
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the instant coffee, sugar, and hot water.
- Using a hand mixer or whisk, beat until thick and creamy with stiff peaks (3–5 minutes with mixer or 8–10 minutes by hand).
- Fill a glass with cold milk and ice cubes for an iced version, or hot milk for a warm drink.
- Spoon the whipped coffee mixture over the milk.
- Gently swirl before sipping or enjoy as a layered drink.
Notes
- Best made fresh for the perfect texture.
- Sugar stabilizes the foam; without it, the foam may deflate faster.
- Vegan-friendly when made with plant-based milk such as almond, oat, or coconut.
- Flavored versions can include vanilla, caramel, hazelnut, or cocoa powder.
- Foam can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and briefly re-whipped before use.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Whipping
- Cuisine: Korean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
