Dalgona coffee became a viral sensation for its thick, creamy, whipped texture and easy preparation. Originating from South Korea, this frothy, cloud-like coffee is made with just instant coffee, sugar, and milk—no special equipment needed!
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make perfect Dalgona coffee at home, plus variations to customize your drink.
1. What Is Dalgona Coffee?
✔ A whipped coffee drink made by whipping instant coffee, sugar, and hot water into a fluffy foam.
✔ Served over hot or iced milk for a smooth and creamy coffee experience.
✔ Inspired by Korean dalgona candy, which has a similar caramelized, airy texture.
💡 Did You Know? Dalgona coffee gained worldwide fame in 2020 through social media challenges.
2. Ingredients Needed
✔ 2 tablespoons instant coffee (not ground coffee or espresso).
✔ 2 tablespoons sugar (white, brown, or coconut sugar).
✔ 2 tablespoons hot water.
✔ 1 cup of milk (whole, almond, oat, or soy milk).
✔ Ice cubes (for an iced version).
💡 Why Instant Coffee? Instant coffee contains stabilizers that help create a light, fluffy foam.
3. How to Make Dalgona Coffee
Step 1: Whip the Coffee Mixture
✔ In a bowl, mix instant coffee, sugar, and hot water.
✔ Use a hand whisk, electric mixer, or milk frother to whip until thick and creamy (about 2–5 minutes).
💡 Best Tip: Using an electric whisk makes the process faster and easier.
Step 2: Prepare the Milk
✔ Pour hot or cold milk into a glass.
✔ If making iced Dalgona coffee, add ice cubes.
💡 For Extra Flavor: Add vanilla, cinnamon, or cocoa powder to the milk before pouring.
Step 3: Assemble the Drink
✔ Spoon the whipped coffee on top of the milk.
✔ Gently stir before drinking, or enjoy the layers as they are.
💡 Best Texture: The whipped coffee should be light, airy, and hold stiff peaks.
4. Dalgona Coffee Variations
✅ Chocolate Dalgona – Add 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder to the whipped mix.
✅ Matcha Dalgona – Replace coffee with matcha green tea powder.
✅ Mocha Dalgona – Mix instant coffee and cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist.
✅ Caramel Dalgona – Drizzle caramel syrup over the top.
💡 Best Alternative to Instant Coffee: Try using instant espresso powder for a stronger flavor.
5. Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
🚨 Foam is too watery? → Use less water or whip longer.
🚨 Foam won’t thicken? → Ensure equal ratios of sugar, coffee, and water.
🚨 Not sweet enough? → Sugar helps with foaming, so don’t skip it!
💡 Pro Tip: The foam holds better when using white or brown sugar rather than sugar substitutes.
Conclusion
Dalgona coffee is a fun, easy-to-make drink that delivers a rich and creamy coffee experience. With just instant coffee, sugar, and milk, you can whip up this trendy café-style coffee at home.