Dalgona Coffee Recipe
Dalgona Coffee Recipe is a easy Korean recipe that serves 1. 120 calories per serving. Recipe by The Cooking Foodie on YouTube.
Prep: 10 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 15 min
Cost: $0.45 total, $0.45 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Instant Coffee (unsweetened, fine grind; any brand works)
- 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar (regular white sugar)
- 2 tablespoons Hot Water (just boiled and slightly cooled (around 80°C))
- 1 cup Milk (whole milk preferred for creaminess; can use any dairy or plant milk)
- as needed cubes Ice Cubes (use enough to fill the glass about 1/4 full)
Instructions
Gather Ingredients and Equipment
Collect instant coffee, sugar, hot water, milk, ice cubes, and all listed equipment.
Time: PT1M
Measure Coffee, Sugar, and Water
Measure 2 Tbsp instant coffee, 2 Tbsp granulated sugar, and 2 Tbsp hot water into the mixing bowl.
Time: PT1M
Whisk Until Creamy
Using a whisk or electric hand mixer, whisk the mixture vigorously until it becomes thick, glossy, and forms stiff peaks (about 3‑5 minutes).
Time: PT4M
Prepare the Glass with Ice
Fill a tall glass about one‑quarter full with ice cubes.
Time: PT1M
Add Milk
Pour milk over the ice until the glass is three‑quarters full.
Time: PT1M
Top with Whipped Coffee
Spoon the whipped coffee mixture on top of the milk, allowing it to float like a cloud.
Time: PT1M
Mix Before Drinking
Stir the coffee and milk together just before sipping to combine flavors.
Time: PT30S
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 120
- Protein
- 5 g
- Carbohydrates
- 15 g
- Fat
- 4 g
- Fiber
- 0 g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Can be made vegan with plant milk and vegan‑friendly sugar
Allergens: Milk (dairy), Caffeine
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Instant Coffee: Espresso powder (use slightly less), Strong brewed coffee (cooled)
- Instead of Granulated Sugar: Coconut sugar, Brown sugar (will change color)
- Instead of Hot Water: Very hot milk (will affect flavor)
- Instead of Milk: Almond milk, Oat milk, Soy milk
- Instead of Ice Cubes: Crushed ice
Equipment Needed
- Measuring Spoons
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Glass
- Spoon
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Whisk the coffee‑sugar‑water mixture until it forms stiff, glossy peaks.
- Spoon the whipped coffee onto the milk without stirring, so it stays on top.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use a tall, clear glass to showcase the layered effect.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or cocoa powder on top of the whipped coffee.
- If you prefer a richer drink, substitute half of the milk with half‑and‑half.
Troubleshooting
The coffee mixture does not become fluffy.
Make sure the water is hot enough (around 80 °C) and whisk for a full 3‑5 minutes. Using an electric hand mixer on high speed helps.
The whipped coffee collapses quickly after topping.
Serve immediately after topping. If you need to wait, keep the whipped coffee in the fridge and re‑whisk briefly before adding.
The coffee tastes too bitter.
Adjust the sugar amount to taste; you can add an extra half tablespoon of sugar for a sweeter profile.
Storage
Refrigerator: Whipped coffee can be stored in an airtight container for up to 12 hours; re‑whisk before use.
Freezer: Not recommended; texture will degrade.
Room temperature: Do not leave at room temperature for more than 30 minutes due to dairy.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Whip the coffee mixture ahead of time and keep it refrigerated; give it a quick stir before topping.
- Prepare ice cubes in advance for a faster assembly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Dalgona Coffee in Korean cuisine?
Dalgona Coffee originated in South Korea during the COVID‑19 pandemic and went viral on TikTok for its fluffy texture. It is named after a Korean street candy called dalgona, which has a similar honey‑comb appearance, and it became a symbol of home‑crafted comfort drinks.
How did Dalgona Coffee become popular worldwide and what role did The Cooking Foodie play in its spread?
The drink exploded on social media in early 2020, with creators sharing quick tutorials. The Cooking Foodie’s clear step‑by‑step video helped English‑speaking audiences replicate the recipe, contributing to its global popularity.
What are the traditional regional variations of Dalgona Coffee in Korean coffee culture?
While the classic version uses instant coffee, sugar, and water, some Korean cafés add a dash of vanilla extract or use sweetened condensed milk for extra richness. Seasonal versions may incorporate pumpkin spice or matcha powder.
What occasions or celebrations is Dalgona Coffee traditionally associated with in Korean culture?
Dalgona Coffee is not tied to a specific holiday; it became a casual, at‑home treat during lockdowns and is now enjoyed as a refreshing summer beverage or a trendy coffee shop offering.
What authentic traditional ingredients are required for Dalgona Coffee versus acceptable substitutes?
Authentic Dalgona Coffee uses unsweetened instant coffee, granulated sugar, and hot water. Acceptable substitutes include espresso powder for coffee, coconut sugar for a lower‑glycemic option, or plant‑based milks for dairy‑free versions.
What other Korean drinks pair well with Dalgona Coffee?
Dalgona Coffee pairs nicely with Korean desserts like hotteok (sweet pancakes) or patbingsu (shaved ice). For a full Korean café experience, serve it alongside a glass of milky barley tea (bori‑sikhye).
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Dalgona Coffee at home?
Common errors include using cold water (which prevents proper emulsification), whisking for too short a time, and over‑whipping which makes the foam grainy. Follow the hot‑water ratio and whisk until stiff peaks form.
Why does this Dalgona Coffee recipe use hot water instead of cold water for whisking?
Hot water helps dissolve the sugar quickly and activates the coffee’s soluble compounds, allowing the mixture to trap air and form a stable foam. Cold water would leave the sugar undissolved and result in a thin, watery mixture.
Can I make Dalgona Coffee ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can whisk the coffee mixture ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours. Before serving, give it a quick stir or re‑whisk to restore its airy texture, then spoon onto milk.
What does the YouTube channel The Cooking Foodie specialize in?
The Cooking Foodie focuses on quick, approachable home‑cooking videos, delivering three new recipes each week with clear visual instructions and tips for everyday cooks.
How does the YouTube channel The Cooking Foodie's approach to Korean recipes differ from other cooking channels?
The Cooking Foodie emphasizes minimal equipment, budget‑friendly ingredients, and step‑by‑step narration, making Korean trends like Dalgona Coffee accessible to a global audience without requiring specialty tools.
Last updated: August 28, 2026
