Here’s an easy, creamy Korean Dalgona coffee recipe—also known as whipped coffee—that you can make with just a few pantry ingredients. This simple whipped coffee delivers a frothy, caramel-colored layer of coffee foam served over milk for a delightful pick-me-up.
The whipped coffee trend caught on quickly, and for good reason: it’s uncomplicated and satisfying. With minimal effort you get a gorgeous layered drink that tastes indulgent. Whether you sip it iced on a sunny windowsill or warm on a chilly morning, Dalgona coffee is an easy treat to enjoy at home.
Because the whipped topping is made from instant coffee granules, the final flavor depends on the quality of the instant coffee you choose. Pick a brand you enjoy—many grocery stores carry a good selection. Once you have the essentials, whipping up Dalgona coffee takes only minutes.
About Dalgona Coffee / Whipped Coffee
Dalgona coffee is a two-layer beverage made by whipping together instant coffee, sugar, and hot water into a thick, mousse-like foam, then spooning it over milk. It became widely popular through social media, and its nickname comes from a Korean honeycomb candy called dalgona, due to the foam’s similar color and texture. While it’s not an everyday drink for most—since the foam contains a fair amount of sugar and caffeine—it’s a fun occasional treat that’s quick to make.
The whipped coffee’s final texture depends on how long you beat it. Use a whisk, a hand mixer, or a stand mixer and stop when you reach the consistency you prefer—soft peaks for easier mixing, or stiffer peaks for a dramatic look. Either way, the contrast between the airy foam and the milk is what makes this drink so appealing.
What is Dalgona whipped coffee?
Dalgona whipped coffee is essentially a whipped coffee or latte with two distinct layers: a dense, caramel-colored coffee foam and a base of milk, which can be served hot or iced. The whipped topping is made from instant coffee, sugar, and boiling water beaten together until light and fluffy. The drink’s origins trace back to similar instant-coffee foams in other cultures, but the modern viral name and popularity are linked to recent social media trends.
Is this whipped coffee similar to a cappuccino?
While the layered presentation resembles an inverted cappuccino, Dalgona coffee differs because the foam is made from instant coffee and sugar rather than steamed milk. It’s sweeter and often stronger in caffeine, so it has a noticeably different flavor profile. The milk layer provides balance, whether you prefer it iced or warmed.
Is whipped coffee delicious?
Yes—when made well, Dalgona coffee is delicious. The whipped mousse is creamy, sweet, and caffeinated, making it an enjoyable treat. Because it contains sugar and concentrated instant coffee, consider enjoying it occasionally rather than every day.
What’s in Dalgona coffee and what makes it foam?
The foam is created by whipping equal parts instant coffee granules, granulated sugar, and boiling water. The agitation traps air and creates a stable, mousse-like texture. The milk—dairy or plant-based—forms the second layer and can be served hot or cold depending on preference.
Can I make Dalgona coffee without sugar?
Sugar helps stabilize the foam, much like when making meringue. Reducing the sugar will produce a less stable foam and a different texture. If you need a sugar-free or keto option, use a granulated, heat-stable sweetener formulated for whipping—these can work, but results may vary.
How can I make Dalgona coffee healthier or suitable for vegan/keto diets?
To make the drink vegan, simply use plant-based milk such as almond, oat, soy, or coconut. For a lower-sugar or keto-friendly version, substitute the granulated sugar with a granulated, keto-approved sweetener that can be whipped (results will depend on the product). Alternatives like coconut sugar or maple sugar can be used for a different flavor, though they may alter foam stability.
How do you make Dalgona coffee? Is it easy?
Yes, it’s very easy. Combine equal parts instant coffee, sugar, and hot water in a small bowl—typically one tablespoon each for a single serving. Whisk vigorously by hand or use an electric mixer for about 3–5 minutes until the mixture becomes thick and mousse-like. Spoon the whipped coffee over milk and stir to combine before drinking.
Can I use regular coffee grounds instead of instant coffee?
No—regular brewed coffee or grounds won’t produce the same foam. Instant coffee is made from dried coffee extract, which dissolves instantly and allows the mixture to trap air and form a stable foam. Some brands offer instant versions made from specialty coffees if you want a specific flavor profile.
How should I drink Dalgona coffee?
Dalgona coffee looks lovely layered, but it’s best enjoyed mixed into the milk so the foam and milk combine for balanced flavor. Stir the whipped coffee into the milk before sipping to enjoy the full, creamy taste.
Other Delicious Recipes You Will Enjoy
- New York-Style Bagels
- Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
- Perfect Chocolate Cupcakes
- The Best Raspberry and Cream Scones
- Incredible Profiteroles
- Strawberry Pavlova
Dalgona Coffee Recipe
Whip the instant coffee, sugar, and hot water until you reach soft to medium peaks for easiest mixing with milk. This recipe makes one serving; double or triple as needed. Serve over ice-cold milk or warm milk. For an adult twist, add a splash of Baileys to the milk before topping with whipped coffee.
5 minutes
5 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon instant coffee granules
- 1 tablespoon boiling hot water
- Whole milk, for serving (or any milk of choice)
- Ice, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Combine sugar, instant coffee granules, and boiling water in a small bowl. Whisk by hand or beat with an electric mixer until the mixture becomes thick and mousse-like, about 3–5 minutes. Stop when you reach the desired peak level.
- Fill a glass with milk and ice if desired, then spoon the whipped coffee on top. Stir the foam into the milk before drinking for the best balance of flavor.
Notes
For keto or sugar-free Dalgona: Use a granulated, heat-stable sweetener intended for baking and whipping. Results will vary by product.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
1 Dalgona Coffee
Serving Size:
1 Dalgona Coffee
Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 49
Total Fat: 0g
Sodium: 1mg
Carbohydrates: 13g
Sugar: 13g