Dalgona Coffee originated as a Korean‑inspired drink that gained worldwide fame during the 2020 pandemic when people shared videos of the fluffy coffee foam on social media. Its name references a Korean honeycomb candy called dalgona, though the drink actually comes from a Macau‑based actor’s description of the foam’s taste.

In Korea, the foam is often served over cold milk with ice, but some cafés serve it hot over steamed milk. Variations include adding flavored syrups, using oat or almond milk, and adjusting sweetness with less sugar for a more coffee‑forward taste.

Traditionally it is presented in a clear glass with a generous layer of whipped coffee foam perched on top of chilled milk and ice, allowing the drinker to stir the foam into the milk before sipping.

During the COVID‑19 lockdowns, Dalgona Coffee became a social media challenge, symbolising a simple pleasure at home. It is now popular for brunches, coffee‑themed gatherings, and as a novelty drink for friends on video calls.

Its uniqueness lies in the airy, glossy foam created solely from instant coffee, sugar, and water—no dairy or egg whites—giving a striking visual contrast and a sweet, coffee‑intense flavor that can be enjoyed cold or hot.

Common errors include using weak instant coffee, whisking for too short a time, and trying to foam a warm syrup. Use a strong instant coffee, keep the mixture cool, and whisk until stiff peaks form for a stable foam.

Mass ratios ensure consistent viscosity and foam stability regardless of ingredient density. Measuring by weight avoids the variability of spoonfuls, which can lead to under‑ or over‑whipping.

Yes, you can whip the foam ahead and keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours. Before serving, give it a quick whisk to revive any collapsed bubbles and then spoon onto milk.

The YouTube channel James Hoffmann focuses on coffee education, including brewing techniques, equipment reviews, coffee science, and occasional coffee‑related experiments like Dalgona Coffee.

James Hoffmann combines rigorous scientific explanations with clear, methodical demonstrations, often referencing research and industry standards, whereas many other channels prioritize quick visual trends without deep technical context.