In 2020, dalgona coffee became an internet sensation, sweeping across TikTok and Instagram feeds with its frothy, golden layers. Years later, this whipped coffee trend is still going strong in 2025, especially for those who want a café-style treat made easily at home. Whether you’re new to this drink or want to perfect your technique, this guide will walk you through how to make dalgona coffee step by step.
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With just a few ingredients and some vigorous whisking, you can turn instant coffee into a rich, foamy masterpiece that tastes as good as it looks.
What Is Dalgona Coffee?
Dalgona coffee is a whipped drink made from instant coffee, sugar, and hot water, beaten until it turns into a light, creamy foam. This foam is then spooned over milk—served hot or cold—for a visually layered and delicious beverage.
Though the trend began in South Korea, dalgona coffee has global roots. It’s similar to Indian phenti hui coffee and Greek frappé. What makes dalgona stand out is its incredibly smooth texture and striking two-tone appearance.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a few pantry staples to make dalgona coffee:
- 2 tablespoons instant coffee
- 2 tablespoons sugar (granulated works best)
- 2 tablespoons hot water
- 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based like oat, almond, soy)
- Ice (optional, if making an iced version)
Tools You’ll Need
- A mixing bowl
- A whisk, hand mixer, or milk frother
- A spoon or spatula
- A serving glass or cup
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Dalgona Coffee
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
In a bowl, mix equal parts instant coffee, sugar, and hot water—2 tablespoons of each. These ratios are key to achieving the right consistency. If you’re making more than one serving, you can double or triple the measurements.
Step 2: Whip the Mixture
Using a whisk, hand mixer, or milk frother, whip the mixture until it becomes thick and frothy. This takes about 3 to 5 minutes by hand or 1 to 2 minutes with a mixer. The mixture should form soft peaks and turn a light caramel color. The texture will be similar to whipped cream but made entirely of coffee.
Tip: Whipping by hand is great for an arm workout, but if you want faster results, use an electric hand mixer or frother.
Step 3: Prepare the Milk Base
Fill a glass with ice (if you want an iced dalgona coffee) and pour in your milk of choice. You can also warm the milk if you prefer a hot version. Leave some room at the top of the glass for the whipped coffee layer.
Step 4: Add the Coffee Foam
Spoon the whipped coffee mixture on top of the milk. Gently smooth it out or leave it rustic—it’s up to you. The contrast between the creamy top and the milk base is what gives dalgona coffee its signature look.
Step 5: Mix and Enjoy
While it looks beautiful layered, you’ll want to mix the foam into the milk before drinking for the best flavor. The whipped coffee is strong and sweet, so blending it with the milk balances the taste perfectly.
Tips for the Perfect Dalgona Coffee
- Use instant coffee only. Brewed coffee or ground coffee won’t whip properly.
- Stick to white sugar. It provides structure to help the foam hold. You can try coconut or brown sugar, but the results may vary.
- Don’t skip the hot water. It dissolves the coffee and sugar, making whipping easier.
- Serve immediately. The foam will slowly settle, so enjoy it fresh for the best texture.
- Use plant-based milk for extra flavor. Oat milk adds creaminess, while almond milk gives a nutty twist.
Variations to Try in 2025
Dalgona coffee has evolved since it first went viral. Try these new versions to keep your coffee routine fresh and exciting:
1. Mocha Dalgona
Add a teaspoon of cocoa powder to the coffee mixture for a chocolatey twist.
2. Spiced Dalgona
Mix in a dash of cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin spice for a seasonal upgrade.
3. Matcha Dalgona
Replace coffee with matcha powder for a green, caffeine-light version. (Note: You’ll need to whip with egg whites or aquafaba as matcha doesn’t whip on its own.)
4. Vegan Dalgona
Most dalgona recipes are already vegan if you use plant-based milk, but to reduce sugar or switch sweeteners, try agave syrup or monk fruit sugar (though the foam may not be as firm).
Caffeine Content
Dalgona coffee packs a punch. Each serving typically contains 150–200 mg of caffeine, depending on the brand of instant coffee used. If you’re sensitive to caffeine, opt for decaf instant coffee or use less than 2 tablespoons.
Why Dalgona Coffee Is Still Popular
In 2025, dalgona coffee continues to shine because it’s simple, visually stunning, and incredibly satisfying. It’s a DIY version of something you might order at a specialty coffee shop—but much cheaper and more customizable. The whipped texture also makes it feel more like a dessert than a drink, giving it broad appeal beyond just coffee lovers.
Final Thoughts
Making dalgona coffee is fun, easy, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re whipping it up for yourself, showing it off on social media, or serving it to guests, this viral drink still delivers both style and substance. With just three main ingredients and five minutes of your time, you can create a café-quality beverage that’s both energizing and indulgent.
