Whipped, fluffy, and effortlessly Instagram-worthy—Dalgona coffee took the world by storm during quarantine, and it hasn’t left our mugs since.
This sweet and foamy drink, made with instant coffee, sugar, and water, has a texture that’s as delightful as its taste. Whether you’re a coffee lover craving something new or just looking for a simple caffeine treat with a twist, this recipe checks all the boxes.
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The Ultimate Dalgona Coffee Recipe: How to Make the Best Whipped Coffee at Home
Silky, café-style Dalgona Coffee in 5 minutes—no machine needed. Fluffy coffee foam crowns cold milk for a creamy, sweet pick-me-up that looks as good as it tastes. ⭐ Save this recipe and make it today—your new go-to whipped coffee!
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 2 drinks
Ingredients
2 tbsp instant coffee (not ground coffee)
2 tbsp granulated sugar (or coconut sugar)
2 tbsp hot water (just off the boil)
2 cups milk of choice, cold (dairy or dairy-free)
Ice cubes (optional for iced)
Optional flavor boosts: ½ tsp vanilla extract, a pinch cinnamon or cocoa powder, or 1–2 tsp maple syrup for extra sweetness
Instructions
Whip the foam: Add instant coffee, sugar, and hot water to a medium bowl. Whisk with a hand whisk 2–3 minutes (or 45–60 seconds with a hand mixer) until thick, glossy, and holds soft peaks.
Prep the glasses: Fill two mugs or heat-safe glasses with ice (if making it iced) and pour in 1 cup cold milk per glass.
Spoon & swirl: Divide the whipped coffee between the two glasses, dolloping on top. Swirl lightly to create marbled layers or stir fully for a smooth latte.
Finish & serve: Add any flavor boosts, dust with cocoa or cinnamon, and enjoy right away.
Notes
Instant coffee only: Freeze-dried instant coffee whips best; espresso or ground coffee won’t foam.
Whip faster: Use a small deep bowl and a hand mixer for ultra-quick peaks.
Control sweetness: Reduce sugar to 1–1½ tbsp for a less sweet foam (texture will be slightly softer).
Milk matters: Whole milk = richest flavor; oat or barista-style almond milk gives great body for dairy-free.
Hot version: Warm the milk and skip the ice for a cozy latte.
Make-ahead: Whipped coffee keeps 2–3 days in the fridge—cover tightly. Re-whip a few seconds if needed.
Flavor ideas: Mocha (1 tsp cocoa in the foam), Vanilla (½ tsp vanilla in milk), Caramel (1–2 tsp caramel syrup), Spiced (pinch cinnamon + cardamom).
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Drinks, Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Whipped, No-Cook
- Cuisine: Korean-inspired, Global
- Diet: Vegetarian
Dalgona Coffee Ingredients Breakdown
Choosing the Right Instant Coffee
The backbone of a perfect Dalgona coffee recipe lies in the coffee itself. Instant coffee is essential here—not ground, not brewed, but pure instant granules. Why? Because it dissolves quickly and reacts best with water and sugar to create that signature fluff.
Not all instant coffees are created equal. For the boldest taste and best results:
- Choose medium or dark roast instant coffee
- Avoid decaf (unless preferred for health reasons)
- Skip flavored varieties—they can alter consistency
Popular brands like Nescafé and Mount Hagen (for organic lovers) work exceptionally well.
The Role of Sugar and Water in Texture
Sugar is not just for sweetness—it stabilizes the foam. When mixed with water and coffee, it creates a thick, stable emulsion.
Here’s the golden ratio:
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Instant coffee | 2 tablespoons |
| Sugar | 2 tablespoons |
| Hot water | 2 tablespoons |
Make sure the water is hot but not boiling, as extreme heat can break down the mix instead of whipping it.
Looking for inspiration? Try thisLemon Basil Pasta Salad: A Bright, Zesty Dish for Any Occasion
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Dalgona Coffee
Whipping Coffee to Perfection (Hand vs. Electric)
Now the magic happens—whipping! You can do this:
- By hand (with a whisk): Takes about 8-12 minutes
- With an electric hand mixer: Just 2-4 minutes
- With a milk frother: Works if it’s powerful
Always whip in a glass or metal bowl for best results. The mixture should become thick, glossy, and hold stiff peaks like meringue.
Tips for the Perfect Froth and Presentation
- Use equal parts of all three ingredients
- Don’t overbeat—it can separate
- Spoon the whipped coffee gently on iced or warm milk
- Sprinkle cocoa, cinnamon, or chocolate shavings on top for café vibes
Check out this Iced Matcha Latte for another drink with a beautiful top layer aesthetic.
Vegan & Dairy-Free Dalgona Coffee Variations
Best Plant-Based Milks to Use
Dalgona coffee is easily made vegan—just switch the milk! Here are the best dairy-free options that don’t compromise flavor:
| Plant Milk | Taste Pairing |
|---|---|
| Oat milk | Creamy, neutral |
| Almond milk | Light, nutty |
| Coconut milk | Rich, tropical |
| Soy milk | High protein, thick |
Use cold milk to contrast the fluffy warm topping, or warm it for a cozy cup.
Making Dalgona with Coconut Sugar or Maple Syrup
Want a healthier twist? Swap white sugar for:
- Coconut sugar – Earthy taste, lower glycemic index
- Maple syrup – Adds sweetness and a touch of fall flavor
Keep in mind: liquid sugars like maple may not whip as stiffly but still give a delicious, creamy result.
Creative Dalgona Coffee Variations to Try
Dalgona Matcha, Mocha & Chocolate Recipes
Beyond coffee, you can create Dalgona-style drinks using:
- Matcha Dalgona: Whipped egg white + matcha + sugar
- Mocha Dalgona: Add 1 tsp cocoa powder to original recipe
- Chocolate Dalgona: Whipped hot chocolate mix with sugar
Though these don’t “whip” quite the same, they offer creamy, whipped textures perfect for non-coffee drinkers.
Iced vs. Hot Dalgona Coffee
While iced is the classic presentation, hot Dalgona offers a comforting twist.
How to serve hot:
- Heat milk before adding the whipped coffee
- Whisk slightly to blend or sip as a layered drink
- Add a pinch of cinnamon for warmth
Don’t miss our Warm Maple Cinnamon Latte—perfect for cozy mornings.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Dalgona Coffee
Why Your Coffee Isn’t Whipping Properly
Common reasons for a failed whip:
- Using ground coffee instead of instant
- Water not hot enough
- Ratio imbalance (too little sugar or water)
- Whipping in a plastic bowl—stick to metal or glass
Fixing a Runny or Grainy Texture
If it’s too runny:
- Add a bit more instant coffee
- Keep whipping—sometimes it just takes time
- Switch to an electric mixer if you’re whisking by hand
Grainy texture? Ensure sugar fully dissolves in hot water before whipping.
Serving and Pairing Dalgona Coffee
Best Glassware and Serving Tips
Presentation counts. Try:
- A tall clear glass for Instagram-worthy layers
- A wide ceramic mug for a cozy feel
- Use a spoon to gently layer the whipped coffee
Serve immediately for the best froth retention.
Sweet and Savory Snacks That Pair Well
Pair your Dalgona coffee recipe with:
- Vegan cookies or biscotti
- Savory breakfast sandwiches
- Toast with nut butter and banana
- Croissants or cinnamon rolls
Looking for more pairing ideas? Discover our Vegan French Toast Recipe.
Health & Nutrition Facts of Dalgona Coffee
Calories and Sugar Content
A traditional Dalgona coffee contains:
- ~90-120 calories (with sugar and whole milk)
- 2 tablespoons of sugar = 24g sugar
Switching to plant milk and using coconut sugar can lower calories and reduce glycemic impact.
Healthier Substitutes and Low-Calorie Options
- Use monk fruit or erythritol for a low-calorie whip
- Unsweetened almond milk for fewer calories
- Add cinnamon or vanilla for flavor without sugar
Dalgona can be indulgent but easily adapted for cleaner eating.
Storing and Prepping Dalgona Coffee Ahead
Can You Make It in Advance?
Yes! The whipped topping lasts:
- Up to 2 days in the fridge
- Store in an airtight container
- Re-whip lightly before serving if it deflates
Don’t mix with milk ahead of time—it will dissolve and lose texture.
How to Store the Whipped Mixture
Place it in:
- A glass jar with lid
- Covered bowl
- Freezer-safe silicone mold (lasts longer)
Always stir gently before use to bring back that airy texture.
FAQ: Dalgona Coffee Questions Answered
What is the secret to making fluffy Dalgona coffee?
Using the correct ratio (1:1:1) and instant coffee, along with vigorous whisking, is key to achieving a thick, fluffy consistency.
Can you use regular coffee instead of instant?
No. Regular ground coffee won’t dissolve properly and won’t whip. Instant coffee is essential for the reaction.
What milk works best with Dalgona coffee?
Oat milk and almond milk are great plant-based options. Whole milk also works if you’re not avoiding dairy.
Is Dalgona coffee healthy to drink daily?
With sugar and caffeine, moderation is best. Use low-sugar alternatives and plant-based milk to enjoy it more regularly.
How do I fix Dalgona coffee that won’t whip?
Check your ratio, use hot water, and switch to an electric mixer if needed. Also, avoid plastic bowls—they can impact whip results.
Can I make sugar-free Dalgona coffee?
Yes. Use stevia, erythritol, or monk fruit sweeteners. Just ensure they can whip and stabilize the foam like sugar does
Conclusion: Time to Whip It Good
The Dalgona coffee recipe is more than just a trend—it’s a testament to how simplicity can create magic. Whether you’re making it vegan, hot, sugar-free, or with a twist, this whipped coffee will continue to charm taste buds and brighten mornings.