Dalgona Coffee at Home (Frothy Coffee)
Dalgona Coffee at Home (Frothy Coffee) is a easy International recipe that serves 2. 110 calories per serving. Recipe by Nino's Home on YouTube.
Prep: 5 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 10 min
Cost: $0.60 total, $0.30 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp Granulated Sugar (regular white sugar)
- 2 tsp Instant Coffee Powder (unsweetened, dark roast preferred)
- 2 tsp Hot Water (just off the boil (about 95°C))
- 200 ml Milk (any type, sweetened to taste; used for serving)
- 1 cup Ice Cubes (crushed or whole, for serving)
Instructions
Measure Sugar
Add 2 Tbsp of granulated sugar into the mixing bowl.
Time: PT30S
Add Instant Coffee
Add 2 tsp of unsweetened instant coffee powder to the bowl.
Time: PT30S
Add Hot Water
Pour 2 tsp of hot water (just off the boil) into the bowl.
Time: PT30S
Temperature: 95°C
Whisk into Foam
Whisk vigorously (or use an electric hand mixer) until the mixture becomes light, airy, and turns a soft light‑brown color. Continue until the foam holds its shape and the bowl feels light.
Time: PT2M
Prepare Serving Glass
Fill a glass with ice cubes and pour the sweetened milk over the ice.
Time: PT30S
Top with Coffee Foam
Spoon the freshly whisked coffee foam onto the milk. Use a spoon or spatula to shape gentle waves if desired.
Time: PT30S
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 110
- Protein
- 0 g
- Carbohydrates
- 27 g
- Fat
- 0 g
- Fiber
- 0 g
Dietary info: Vegan (foam itself contains no animal products), Dairy‑free if plant milk is used
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Granulated Sugar: Honey, Agave syrup
- Instead of Instant Coffee Powder: Espresso powder, Soluble coffee granules
- Instead of Milk: Almond milk, Soy milk, Oat milk
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk or Electric Hand Mixer
- Measuring Spoons
- Glass or Cup
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Whisk the mixture until it becomes light, airy, and soft light‑brown; under‑whisked foam will be watery.
- Use hot water (≈95°C) to ensure proper dissolution of coffee and sugar.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use a fine‑mesh sieve to sift the instant coffee for a smoother foam.
- A chilled glass keeps the drink colder longer and enhances the contrast between the cold milk and warm foam.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or cocoa powder on top of the foam.
Troubleshooting
Foam does not form or stays watery.
Ensure the water is hot (near boiling) and whisk vigorously. Using an electric mixer on medium speed helps achieve the right texture.
Foam collapses quickly after topping.
Serve immediately after whisking. Keep the foam chilled in a shallow bowl if you must wait a few minutes.
Storage
Refrigerator: Can be kept in a sealed container for up to 1 hour; may lose volume.
Freezer: Not recommended – foam texture breaks when frozen.
Room temperature: Use immediately; foam collapses at room temperature after a few minutes.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Whisk the foam up to 1 hour ahead and store it in a chilled bowl; give it a quick re‑whisk before serving.
- Prepare the sweetened milk and ice in advance for faster assembly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of coffee foam in modern social media trends?
Coffee foam, often called "Dalgona coffee," became a viral sensation during the 2020 lockdowns, especially on TikTok and YouTube. Its eye‑catching fluffy texture and simple home preparation made it a symbol of comfort and creativity during a time when people were confined at home.
How does the coffee foam trend fit into the broader coffee culture worldwide?
The foam trend revived interest in hand‑whipped coffee drinks, echoing classic European coffee‑whipping techniques while adding a playful, Instagram‑ready aesthetic. It bridges traditional coffee preparation with modern, shareable content culture.
What are the authentic traditional ingredients for coffee foam versus acceptable substitutes?
Authentic coffee foam uses instant coffee powder, granulated sugar, and hot water. Acceptable substitutes include espresso powder for a stronger flavor or a natural sweetener like honey instead of sugar, though the texture may vary slightly.
What occasions or celebrations is coffee foam traditionally associated with in contemporary internet culture?
Coffee foam is popular for casual home gatherings, virtual coffee dates, and as a refreshing treat on hot summer days. It’s also frequently featured in “stay‑at‑home” challenge videos and as a visual centerpiece for livestreams.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making instant coffee foam at home?
Common mistakes include using lukewarm water, which prevents proper dissolution, and under‑whisking, which leaves the mixture watery. Over‑whisking can also cause the foam to become grainy, so stop when it reaches a soft, light‑brown consistency.
Why does this instant coffee foam recipe use a 1:1:1 ratio of sugar, coffee, and water?
The 1:1:1 ratio balances sweetness, coffee intensity, and liquid volume, creating a stable foam that holds its shape while still tasting like a coffee‑sweet blend. Changing the ratio can make the foam too sweet or too bitter and affect its ability to aerate.
Can I make instant coffee foam ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can whisk the foam up to one hour in advance and keep it in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Before serving, give it a quick re‑whisk to revive its airy texture.
What texture and appearance should I look for when the coffee foam is ready?
The foam should be light, airy, and have a soft light‑brown color, similar to whipped cream. It should hold its shape when lifted with a spoon and sit on top of the milk without sinking immediately.
What does the YouTube channel Nino's Home specialize in?
The YouTube channel Nino's Home focuses on quick, fun, and trend‑driven kitchen experiments, often featuring playful commentary and easy‑to‑follow recipes that appeal to a casual home‑cooking audience.
How does the YouTube channel Nino's Home's approach to coffee‑related recipes differ from other coffee channels?
Nino's Home blends humor and personal anecdotes with step‑by‑step instructions, emphasizing speed and minimal equipment, whereas many coffee‑focused channels prioritize barista‑level techniques and specialty equipment.
What other coffee‑style drinks are popular on the YouTube channel Nino's Home?
Nino's Home has also featured iced latte variations, coffee‑infused desserts like coffee‑flavored cakes, and simple cold brew tutorials that align with the channel’s easy‑home‑cook vibe.
Last updated: August 29, 2026
