Dalgona coffee took the world by storm during the lockdown era, becoming a viral trend that started in South Korea and quickly made its way into kitchens across the globe. What started as a simple whipped coffee turned into a satisfying home ritual for coffee lovers. The best part? You only need three basic ingredients and five minutes to make it.
In this article, we’ll walk through how to make authentic Dalgona coffee at home, give you the science behind its creamy texture, share tips for perfect results, and offer variations to suit every taste.
What Is Dalgona Coffee?
Dalgona coffee is a whipped coffee drink made by beating instant coffee, sugar, and hot water into a thick, frothy cream that is then layered over chilled or warm milk. It’s named after a Korean honeycomb candy called “dalgona,” which has a similar color and airy texture.
It’s not a new invention but a reinvented version of traditional beaten coffee or phenti hui coffee popular in India. Social media just gave it a new name and a wider audience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a few simple pantry ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons instant coffee (not ground coffee)
- 2 tablespoons sugar (white granulated works best)
- 2 tablespoons hot water
- 1 cup cold or warm milk (dairy or plant-based)
- Ice cubes (optional for cold version)
This recipe makes one tall glass. Adjust quantities if you want to serve more.
Step-by-Step Dalgona Coffee Recipe
Step 1: Combine coffee, sugar, and water
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, add 2 tablespoons of instant coffee, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and 2 tablespoons of hot water. Make sure the water is freshly boiled.
Step 2: Whip it up
Using a hand whisk, electric beater, or milk frother, whip the mixture until it becomes thick, creamy, and light brown in color. This takes about 8 to 10 minutes by hand or 2 to 3 minutes with an electric whisk.
The mixture should form soft peaks, similar to whipped cream.
Step 3: Prepare the milk
Fill a glass with chilled milk and a few ice cubes. For a hot version, warm the milk without boiling and pour it into a cup.
Step 4: Add the whipped coffee
Spoon the whipped coffee over the milk. You can swirl it gently or leave it in thick layers. Stir well before drinking or enjoy it as a layered drink.
Why Instant Coffee Works Best
Instant coffee is essential for this recipe because it contains emulsifiers and stabilizers that help create the signature froth. Ground or brewed coffee will not whip in the same way.
If you prefer decaf, you can use decaffeinated instant coffee without changing the process.
Tips for Perfect Dalgona Coffee
- Use equal ratios of coffee, sugar, and water for best consistency
- Don’t reduce sugar too much, as it stabilizes the foam
- Chill your milk beforehand for a more refreshing iced version
- Use a metal or glass bowl while whipping to speed up the process
- Whip in circular motions instead of back and forth for better volume
Variations to Try
Mocha Dalgona
Add 1 teaspoon of unsweetened cocoa powder to the coffee mix before whipping. This creates a chocolate-coffee flavor that’s richer and deeper.
Cinnamon Dalgona
Sprinkle ground cinnamon on top after layering the whipped coffee for a warm, spicy twist.
Vanilla Dalgona
Add 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the milk base for a creamy, dessert-like feel.
Dalgona Protein Shake
Blend chilled milk with a scoop of protein powder and top it with the whipped coffee for a post-workout version.
Vegan Version
Use soy, oat, almond, or coconut milk. Just make sure it’s unsweetened if you’re watching sugar levels.
Health Considerations
Dalgona coffee is a treat, not a daily health drink. It’s rich in caffeine and sugar, so moderation is key. If you want a healthier twist:
- Replace sugar with coconut sugar or stevia, but note that this may affect the foam texture
- Use low-fat or plant-based milk for fewer calories
- Skip the sweetener and use naturally flavored milk like vanilla almond milk
Storage Tips
The whipped coffee can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It may lose a bit of its volume but still tastes great. Whip it again lightly before use if needed.
Avoid freezing, as the foam will collapse after thawing.
FAQs
Can I use ground coffee instead of instant coffee?
No, it won’t whip properly. Only instant coffee works for this specific preparation.
Can I make Dalgona coffee without sugar?
Sugar helps stabilize the foam. Without it, the texture won’t hold as well. You can try sugar alternatives but results may vary.
Is Dalgona coffee served hot or cold?
Both options are great. Use cold milk and ice for an iced version or hot milk for a cozy, winter-style drink.
What’s the best tool for whipping?
A hand whisk works but takes time. Electric beaters or milk frothers make the job quicker and easier.
Can kids drink Dalgona coffee?
It contains caffeine, so it’s best reserved for adults or older teens. You can make a caffeine-free version using decaf instant coffee.
Final Thoughts
Dalgona coffee is more than just a trend. It’s an easy, satisfying way to enjoy coffee in a new texture. With just three main ingredients and a bit of elbow grease, you can recreate a café-style drink at home. Whether you like it cold and sweet or warm and rich, there’s a version of this whipped coffee to match your taste. Try it once and you’ll want to make it part of your coffee routine. Let me know if you’d like a caramel or matcha-based alternative next.
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