Dalgona coffee became a worldwide sensation thanks to its rich, creamy texture and beautiful whipped layers. This Korean-inspired drink is made by whipping together instant coffee, sugar, and water until it forms a thick, foamy topping, which is then served over cold or hot milk. The result is a sweet, velvety coffee with a strong espresso-like flavor that’s both fun to make and incredibly delicious.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons of instant coffee
- 2 tablespoons of sugar
- 2 tablespoons of hot water
- ¾ cup of milk (cold or hot)
- Ice cubes (for an iced version)
How to Make Dalgona Coffee
- Whip the Coffee Mixture – In a bowl, combine instant coffee, sugar, and hot water. Using a whisk or an electric mixer, whip the mixture for 3–5 minutes until it turns thick, creamy, and light brown in color. It should have a smooth, foamy consistency, similar to whipped cream.
- Prepare the Milk – Fill a glass with cold or hot milk, depending on your preference. If making an iced dalgona coffee, add ice cubes first.
- Top with the Whipped Coffee – Spoon the whipped coffee mixture over the milk.
- Stir Before Drinking – Mix the whipped coffee with the milk before sipping to ensure an even balance of flavors.
Preparation Time
- Total time: 5–7 minutes
- Whipping time: 3–5 minutes
Tips for the Best Dalgona Coffee
- Use Instant Coffee Only: The whipped texture only works with instant coffee due to its fine particles and quick dissolving properties. Ground coffee or brewed coffee won’t work.
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet drink, reduce the sugar to 1 tablespoon.
- Make It Dairy-Free: Use oat, almond, or coconut milk for a vegan-friendly version.
- Use an Electric Mixer for Faster Results: Whipping by hand takes longer, so if you want quick results, use an electric whisk or hand mixer.
- Try Different Flavors: Add cocoa powder, vanilla extract, or cinnamon to the whipped coffee for extra flavor.
More About Dalgona Coffee
Dalgona coffee became famous during the 2020 lockdown, when people around the world started making it at home as a fun, easy coffee experiment. The drink is inspired by Korean dalgona candy, a light and airy toffee-like treat. The frothy, whipped texture makes it visually stunning, while the strong coffee flavor pairs perfectly with the creamy milk base.
It’s an excellent alternative to traditional lattes and cappuccinos, and because it’s so easy to make, it’s perfect for those who love barista-style coffee but don’t have an espresso machine at home. Whether you enjoy it hot or cold, dalgona coffee is a must-try!