Here’s an easy, creamy Dalgona (whipped) coffee recipe made popular on TikTok. This simple Korean-style whipped coffee requires only a few ingredients and yields a frothy, café-style treat you can enjoy over hot or iced milk.
This whipped coffee trend is charming in its simplicity. A few minutes of whipping transforms instant coffee, sugar, and hot water into a glossy, caramel-colored mousse that sits atop milk. It’s fun to make and delicious to drink—perfect for a special morning pick-me-up or an easy afternoon treat.
Because the recipe is so straightforward, the flavor largely depends on the instant coffee you choose. Pick a brand you like—many grocery stores carry a wide selection. If you can, choose a dependable instant coffee for the best results; otherwise, any instant coffee will work for this playful beverage.
About Dalgona Coffee / Whipped Coffee
Dalgona whipped coffee is a two-layer drink consisting of a thick, whipped coffee foam and a base of milk. It became widely popular in South Korea and on social media, though whipped coffee styles have existed in other places for decades. The name “dalgona” comes from a Korean honeycomb toffee—because the whipped foam reminded an actor of that sweet.
The whipped layer is light, velvety, and rich in coffee flavor. The milk layer can be dairy or any non-dairy alternative—almond, soy, oat, or coconut milk all work well. Serve the drink over ice for a refreshing iced latte, or use warm milk for a cozy, hot version.
What makes Dalgona Coffee foam?
The foam is created by whipping equal parts instant coffee, granulated sugar, and hot water until the mixture becomes thick and mousse-like. Instant coffee contains soluble coffee solids that trap air when beaten, producing a stable foam similar in concept to meringue.
How does it compare to a cappuccino?
Dalgona coffee is often described as an “upside-down cappuccino” because the foam sits on top of the milk instead of beneath it. The whipped coffee layer is sweeter and more concentrated than steamed milk foam, so the drink tends to be higher in caffeine and sugar and delivers a bold, sweet coffee flavor.
Is whipped coffee tasty?
Yes—when made well, the whipped coffee is a delicious and indulgent treat. Because it contains a concentrated amount of instant coffee and sugar, enjoy it in moderation or adjust ingredients to suit your taste and dietary needs.
Ingredients and variations
Traditional Dalgona coffee uses three core ingredients: instant coffee granules, granulated sugar, and boiling water, whipped together until thick. The milk base can be any milk you prefer—whole milk, skim, or plant-based alternatives like almond, oat, or soy milk. Serve with ice for an iced version or use warm milk for a hot drink.
Can you make it without sugar?
Sugar helps stabilize the foam, much like in meringue. You can reduce the sugar slightly, but a significant reduction or omission will make the foam less voluminous and less stable. For sugar-free or keto versions, use granulated sugar substitutes formulated for whipping, such as confectioners’-style erythritol blends or granulated monk fruit sweetener, keeping in mind results may vary.
Healthier options and dietary swaps
To make the drink lighter, use less sugar or swap in a low-calorie sweetener designed for whipping. Use plant-based milk to make the drink vegan. For a boozy adult version, add a splash of Baileys or another liqueur to the milk before topping with the whipped coffee.
How to make Dalgona coffee (quick method)
Whip together equal parts instant coffee, sugar, and boiling water—typically one tablespoon of each—until the mixture is thick and forms soft to medium peaks, about 3–5 minutes with an electric mixer or a bit longer by hand. Fill a glass with milk and ice if desired, spoon the whipped coffee on top, then stir to combine before drinking.
Why instant coffee is required
Regular brewed coffee or grounds won’t create the same foam. Instant coffee is essentially dried brewed coffee extract, which allows it to rehydrate and trap air when whipped. Some specialty producers offer instant versions of premium coffees if you prefer a specific flavor profile.
How to enjoy it
Dalgona coffee looks striking with its layered presentation, but it’s best when mixed into the milk. Stir well to blend the whipped coffee with the milk for a smooth, balanced beverage that tastes like an elevated iced latte.
Other recipes you might enjoy
- New York-Style Bagels
- Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels
- Perfect Chocolate Cupcakes
- Raspberry and Cream Scones
- Profiteroles
- Strawberry Pavlova
Dalgona Coffee Recipe
Whip the instant coffee, sugar, and hot water to your preferred peak—soft or firmer peaks both work. Soft peaks blend more easily into milk. This recipe makes one serving; multiply ingredients to serve more.
Serve over cold or warm milk. For an adult version, add a shot of Baileys to the milk before spooning the whipped coffee on top.
5 minutes
5 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon instant coffee granules
- 1 tablespoon boiling hot water
- Whole milk, for serving (or milk alternative)
- Ice, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- In a small bowl combine the sugar, instant coffee granules, and boiling water. Beat with a whisk or electric mixer until thick and mousse-like, about 3–5 minutes.
- Fill a glass with milk and ice if desired. Spoon the whipped coffee on top, then stir to combine before drinking.
Notes
For a keto or sugar-free version: use a granulated sweetener suitable for whipping, such as erythritol blends or granulated monk fruit, and adjust to taste.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
1 Dalgona Coffee
Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 49
Carbohydrates: 13g
Sugar: 13g