Dalgona Iced Coffee
Dalgona Iced Coffee! is a easy International recipe that serves 1. 120 calories per serving. Recipe by Noah Stern ☕️ on YouTube.
Prep: 5 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 10 min
Cost: $0.56 total, $0.56 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Instant Coffee (prefer a high‑quality, finely ground instant coffee)
- 2 tablespoons Hot Water (just off the boil (around 190°F / 88°C))
- 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar (adjust to taste; can use brown sugar for deeper flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (pure vanilla extract gives best flavor)
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt (just a pinch to enhance flavor)
- 1 cup Ice Cubes (use fresh, clear ice for best dilution control)
- 1/2 cup Milk (whole milk recommended; can substitute with almond, oat, or soy milk for dairy‑free version)
Instructions
Combine Coffee Base
Add the instant coffee, hot water, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt into the mixing bowl.
Time: PT1M
Froth the Mixture
Using a hand frother or whisk, froth the coffee mixture until it becomes light, airy, and doubles in volume.
Time: PT1M
Prepare the Glass
Fill a glass with a generous amount of ice cubes.
Time: PT30S
Add Frothy Coffee
Pour the frothy coffee mixture over the ice, allowing it to cascade through.
Time: PT30S
Finish with Milk
Top the drink with milk, then give a gentle stir to combine.
Time: PT30S
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 120
- Protein
- 4 g
- Carbohydrates
- 18 g
- Fat
- 4 g
- Fiber
- 0 g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Can be made vegan with plant milk
Allergens: Milk
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Instant Coffee: coffee granules, espresso powder
- Instead of Hot Water: boiling water
- Instead of Granulated Sugar: honey, maple syrup
- Instead of Vanilla Extract: almond extract, vanilla bean paste
- Instead of Salt: sea salt
- Instead of Ice Cubes: crushed ice
- Instead of Milk: almond milk, oat milk, soy milk
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowl
- Hand Frother or Whisk
- Measuring Spoons
- Glass
- Stirring Spoon
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Frothing the coffee mixture until fluffy
- Ensuring the hot water fully dissolves the instant coffee and sugar
- Adding ice before milk to keep the drink cold
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use a high‑quality instant coffee for a richer flavor.
- Chill the glass and milk beforehand for an extra‑cold beverage.
- A pinch of salt really brightens the coffee’s sweetness.
Troubleshooting
Coffee mixture is not sweet enough.
Add a little more sugar or a drizzle of honey to the concentrate before frothing.
Froth is flat and not airy.
Use a hand frother on high speed and ensure the mixture is still warm; colder mixtures froth less effectively.
Drink becomes watery quickly.
Use less hot water or increase the amount of instant coffee to create a stronger concentrate.
Storage
Refrigerator: Coffee concentrate can be stored in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Freezer: Not recommended; ice will affect texture.
Room temperature: Best served immediately; will become watery if left out.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the coffee‑sugar‑vanilla‑salt concentrate in advance and keep it refrigerated.
- Pre‑measure ice and milk in separate containers for quick assembly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of instant iced coffee in modern coffee culture?
Instant iced coffee emerged as a convenient alternative to brewed cold coffee, allowing coffee lovers to enjoy a chilled beverage quickly at home or in the office. It reflects the fast‑paced lifestyle of contemporary society where speed and simplicity are prized.
What are the traditional regional variations of iced coffee in the United States?
In the United States, iced coffee varies from simple cold brew to sweetened coffee with milk, known as "iced coffee with cream" in the South, and the popular "Frappuccino" style blended drinks. The recipe here follows a quick instant‑coffee version that is common in many American households.
How is instant iced coffee traditionally served in American cafés?
American cafés often serve iced coffee over a generous amount of ice in a tall glass, topped with milk or cream and sometimes flavored syrups. The drink is usually stirred before serving to blend the layers.
What occasions or celebrations is instant iced coffee commonly associated with in the United States?
Instant iced coffee is a go‑to refreshment for summer barbecues, office break rooms, and casual brunches. Its quick preparation makes it popular for impromptu gatherings and after‑work relaxation.
What makes this instant iced coffee recipe special compared to other coffee drinks?
The recipe adds a pinch of salt and vanilla extract, then froths the coffee mixture for a light, airy texture that mimics a barista‑crafted cold brew. This combination creates a balanced sweetness and a creamy mouthfeel without any brewing equipment.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making instant iced coffee from the YouTube channel Noah Stern ☕️?
Common errors include using water that is too cool, which prevents the instant coffee from fully dissolving, and under‑frothing the mixture, resulting in a flat drink. Also, adding milk before the ice can melt the ice too quickly, diluting the flavor.
Why does this instant iced coffee recipe use a pinch of salt instead of more sugar?
A pinch of salt enhances the coffee’s natural sweetness and reduces bitterness, allowing you to use less sugar while still achieving a balanced flavor profile.
Can I make instant iced coffee ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can prepare the coffee‑sugar‑vanilla‑salt concentrate ahead of time and keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add ice and milk just before serving to maintain the frothy texture.
What texture and appearance should I look for when frothing the coffee mixture?
The froth should be light, airy, and roughly double the volume of the original mixture, with a creamy white‑off color. It should hold its shape briefly when the frother is lifted.
How do I know when the instant iced coffee is done cooking?
Since there is no cooking step, the drink is finished once the coffee mixture is fully frothy, poured over ice, and topped with milk. A quick stir should blend the layers without breaking the froth.
What does the YouTube channel Noah Stern ☕️ specialize in?
The YouTube channel Noah Stern ☕️ specializes in quick, approachable coffee tutorials and everyday beverage hacks, focusing on simple techniques that home cooks can execute with minimal equipment.
How does the YouTube channel Noah Stern ☕️'s approach to coffee differ from other coffee‑focused channels?
Noah Stern ☕️ emphasizes ultra‑fast preparation using pantry staples like instant coffee, whereas many other coffee channels focus on elaborate brewing methods such as pour‑over or espresso. His style is geared toward speed, accessibility, and minimal cleanup.
Last updated: August 31, 2026
