How to Make Coffee and Matcha Dalgona
How to Make Coffee and Matcha Dalgona is a easy Korean recipe that serves 2. 350 calories per serving. Recipe by TabiEats Recipes on YouTube.
Prep: 12 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 17 min
Cost: $1.45 total, $0.73 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Instant Coffee Granules (prefer a fine, high‑quality instant coffee)
- 3 tablespoons Granulated Sugar (2 tbsp for coffee version, 1 tbsp for matcha version)
- 2 tablespoons Hot Water (just off the boil, about 80‑85°C)
- 1 teaspoon Matcha Powder (high‑grade ceremonial grade preferred)
- 2 tablespoons Warm Water (added gradually to make a smooth paste)
- 0.25 cup Heavy Cream (chilled, for the matcha version)
- 2 cups Milk of Choice (whole milk recommended, can use plant‑based milk)
- as needed Ice Cubes (fill each glass halfway)
Instructions
Whip the Coffee Mixture
In a mixing bowl combine 2 tbsp instant coffee, 2 tbsp granulated sugar, and 2 tbsp hot water. Using the electric hand mixer, beat on high speed for 2‑3 minutes until the mixture becomes thick, glossy, and forms soft peaks.
Time: PT3M
Prepare the Matcha Paste
In a separate bowl, sift 1 tsp matcha powder. Add warm water a little at a time, whisking until a smooth, lump‑free paste forms.
Time: PT2M
Whip the Matcha Cream
To the matcha paste add 1 tbsp sugar and 1/4 cup chilled heavy cream. Beat with the electric mixer until soft peaks appear, about 2‑3 minutes.
Time: PT4M
Assemble the Drinks
Fill two glasses halfway with ice cubes. Pour 1 cup milk into each glass. Spoon the whipped coffee mixture onto one glass and the whipped matcha mixture onto the other, allowing them to float on top.
Time: PT2M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 350
- Protein
- 5 g
- Carbohydrates
- 30 g
- Fat
- 12 g
- Fiber
- 0 g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Can be made vegan by using plant‑based milk and coconut cream
Allergens: Dairy (milk, cream), Caffeine
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Instant Coffee Granules: Instant espresso powder
- Instead of Granulated Sugar: Honey, Maple syrup (adjust amount)
- Instead of Matcha Powder: Green tea powder (lower quality)
- Instead of Heavy Cream: Half‑and‑half, coconut cream (vegan)
- Instead of Milk of Choice: Almond milk, Soy milk, Oat milk
Equipment Needed
- Electric Hand Mixer
- Measuring Spoons
- Measuring Cup
- Mixing Bowl
- Glass Serving Cups
- Spatula or Spoon
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Whipping the coffee and matcha mixtures until soft peaks form – this creates the signature fluffy texture.
- Sifting matcha powder to avoid clumps.
- Using hot water (≈80 °C) for the coffee mixture to dissolve instant coffee fully.
Chef Tips from the Video
- For extra sweetness, drizzle a little condensed milk over the finished drink.
- Use a chilled glass to keep the drink colder longer.
- If you prefer a lighter drink, substitute half‑and‑half for the heavy cream in the matcha version.
Troubleshooting
Foam does not become thick and stays liquid.
Ensure the water is hot enough for the coffee mixture and use a high‑speed electric mixer. Increase mixing time by 1‑2 minutes.
Matcha mixture is lumpy.
Sift the matcha powder before adding water and whisk continuously while adding water gradually.
Foam collapses quickly after topping the drink.
Serve immediately after assembling; keep the whipped foam refrigerated until just before serving.
Storage
Refrigerator: Whipped coffee or matcha foam can be stored in an airtight container for up to 24 hours; re‑whip briefly before serving.
Freezer: Not recommended – texture will be lost.
Room temperature: Serve immediately; foam will deflate at room temperature within an hour.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Whip the coffee foam up to 24 hours in advance and keep refrigerated; give it a quick stir before topping the drink.
- Matcha foam can also be prepared ahead and stored chilled.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Dalgona Coffee in Korean cuisine?
Dalgona Coffee became a viral sensation during the 2020 pandemic, originating from a South Korean street snack called dalgona candy. The fluffy, sweet coffee foam mimics the candy’s airy texture and quickly spread worldwide as a comforting, Instagram‑ready drink.
What are the traditional regional variations of Dalgona Coffee in Korean coffee culture?
In Korea, the classic version uses instant coffee, sugar, and hot water. Some cafés add a hint of cocoa powder or use brown sugar for a deeper flavor. The matcha version is a modern twist that blends Korean whipped coffee technique with Japanese matcha.
How is Dalgona Coffee traditionally served in Korea?
Traditionally, Dalgona Coffee is served over a glass of cold milk with ice cubes, allowing the foam to sit on top. Diners stir the foam into the milk before drinking, creating a creamy, sweet coffee experience.
On what occasions is Dalgona Coffee commonly enjoyed in Korean culture?
Dalgona Coffee is popular as a home‑made treat during rainy days, study sessions, or as a refreshing pick‑me‑up. It also appears on social media challenges and casual gatherings among friends.
What authentic ingredients are essential for a traditional Korean Dalgona Coffee versus acceptable substitutes?
The authentic recipe calls for instant coffee granules, granulated sugar, and hot water. Substitutes can include instant espresso powder for a stronger flavor or brown sugar for a caramel note, but the texture must still be whipped to soft peaks.
What other Korean drinks pair well with Dalgona Coffee?
Dalgona Coffee pairs nicely with Korean sweet potato latte, honey citron tea, or a simple bowl of hot barley tea (bori‑sujeong). The contrast of sweet foam and milder drinks balances the palate.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Dalgona Coffee at home?
Common mistakes include using water that is not hot enough, under‑whipping the mixture, and over‑mixing the cream which can turn it buttery. Also, adding too much sugar can make the foam too dense.
Why does this Dalgona Coffee recipe use an electric hand mixer instead of a handheld whisk?
An electric hand mixer reaches the high speed needed to incorporate air quickly, achieving the thick, glossy foam in 2‑3 minutes. A handheld whisk can work but takes about 5 minutes and may not produce the same consistency.
Can I make Dalgona Coffee ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can whip the coffee foam ahead and keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Before serving, give it a quick stir or re‑whip briefly to restore its airy texture.
What texture and appearance should I look for when the Dalgona coffee foam is ready?
The foam should be thick, glossy, and hold soft peaks that stand up when the whisk is lifted. It should have a smooth, velvety surface without large bubbles or watery streaks.
What does the YouTube channel TabiEats Recipes specialize in?
The YouTube channel TabiEats Recipes specializes in easy‑to‑follow Asian comfort food and street‑food inspired dishes, often adding creative twists while keeping the recipes accessible for home cooks.
How does the YouTube channel TabiEats Recipes' approach to Korean coffee drinks differ from other cooking channels?
TabiEats Recipes focuses on quick, minimalist techniques using everyday kitchen tools, emphasizing the visual appeal of drinks like Dalgona coffee. Unlike some channels that use elaborate equipment, TabiEats keeps it simple and budget‑friendly.
Last updated: August 30, 2026
