Dalgona Coffee
DALGONA COFFEE is a easy International recipe that serves 2. 90 calories per serving. Recipe by Simply Mamá Cooks on YouTube.
Prep: 5 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 10 min
Cost: $0.60 total, $0.30 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Instant Coffee Powder (Fine, unsweetened instant coffee)
- 2 tablespoons Monk Fruit Sweetener (Equivalent sweetness to 2 tbsp sugar; can use granulated sugar if preferred)
- 2 tablespoons Hot Water (Just boiled water)
- 7 ounces Skim Milk (Divided: half for hot drink, half chilled for iced drink; can substitute any milk type)
- 1 cup Ice Cubes (For the iced version only)
Instructions
Combine Coffee, Sweetener, and Hot Water
Place 2 tablespoons of instant coffee and 2 tablespoons of monk fruit sweetener into a mixing bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of freshly boiled water.
Time: PT1M
Whisk Until Thick Foam Forms
Whisk vigorously by hand or with an electric mixer on high speed until the mixture becomes light, airy, and holds soft peaks (about 2‑3 minutes).
Time: PT3M
Heat and Prepare Milk
Heat 3.5 ounces (≈100 ml) of skim milk in the microwave or on the stovetop until warm (about 140°F/60°C). Keep the remaining 3.5 ounces chilled and add a handful of ice cubes for the iced version.
Time: PT2M
Temperature: 140°F
Assemble the Drinks
Divide the whipped coffee foam equally into two cups. Pour the warm milk into one cup and the iced milk over ice into the other, allowing the foam to sit on top.
Time: PT1M
Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately. Stir the hot drink if desired; sip the iced version through the foam for a refreshing contrast.
Time: PT1M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 90
- Protein
- 8 g
- Carbohydrates
- 12 g
- Fat
- 0 g
- Fiber
- 0 g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Low-Fat, Low-Calorie, Sugar-Free (when using monk fruit sweetener)
Allergens: Milk
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Instant Coffee Powder: Espresso powder
- Instead of Monk Fruit Sweetener: Granulated sugar, Stevia powder
- Instead of Skim Milk: Whole milk, Almond milk, Oat milk
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring Spoons
- Microwave or Small Saucepan
- Cups or Glasses
- Ice Tray (optional) (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Whisk the coffee, sweetener, and hot water until thick, airy peaks form.
- Use hot (just boiled) water to dissolve the coffee completely.
- Divide the foam evenly between the hot and iced servings.
Chef Tips from the Video
- A small hand‑held electric frother works perfectly for a quick foam.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or cocoa powder on top of the foam.
- Use chilled milk and plenty of ice for a truly refreshing iced version.
Troubleshooting
Foam does not become thick or stays watery.
Ensure you are using fine instant coffee and hot water. Whisk longer or use an electric mixer on high speed.
Foam collapses quickly after topping the milk.
Serve immediately after assembling. If needed, gently fold the foam into the milk to stabilize.
Storage
Refrigerator: Foam can be stored in an airtight container for up to 24 hours; re‑whisk briefly before using.
Freezer: Not recommended; texture will be lost.
Room temperature: Do not store; drink should be consumed immediately.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Pre‑measure coffee and sweetener into a small jar for faster prep.
- Whip the coffee foam ahead of time and keep it refrigerated; give it a quick whisk before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of whipped coffee (Dalgona coffee) in Korean coffee culture?
Whipped coffee, popularly known as Dalgona coffee, originated in South Korea during the COVID‑19 pandemic as a viral TikTok trend. It mimics the frothy texture of the traditional Korean candy called dalgona, giving the drink its name, and quickly spread worldwide as a simple, Instagram‑friendly coffee.
What are the traditional regional variations of Dalgona coffee in Korean cuisine?
In Korea, the classic version is served over milk, but variations include adding flavored syrups, using oat or almond milk, and topping with cocoa powder or cinnamon. Some cafés serve it over ice for a refreshing summer twist.
How is Dalgona coffee traditionally served in South Korea?
Traditionally, Dalgona coffee is spooned on top of a glass of cold or warm milk and enjoyed by stirring the foam into the milk before drinking, creating a creamy, sweet coffee beverage.
What occasions or celebrations is whipped coffee (Dalgona coffee) associated with in modern Korean culture?
While not tied to a specific holiday, Dalgona coffee became a social media phenomenon during lockdowns, making it a popular treat for virtual gatherings, brunches, and casual coffee breaks among friends.
What makes this whipped coffee drink special compared to other coffee beverages in international cuisine?
The drink’s unique appeal lies in its light, airy foam created without any dairy, using only instant coffee, sweetener, and hot water. This simple technique produces a velvety texture that contrasts with the milk, offering a novel sensory experience.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making whipped coffee (Dalgona coffee) at home?
Common errors include using cold water, which prevents the coffee from dissolving fully, and whisking for too short a time, resulting in a thin, runny foam. Use hot water and whisk until stiff peaks form for the best texture.
Why does this recipe use monk fruit sweetener instead of regular sugar?
Monk fruit sweetener provides the same level of sweetness with zero calories and a low glycemic impact, making the drink suitable for low‑sugar diets while still achieving the classic sweet flavor of Dalgona coffee.
Can I make the whipped coffee foam ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can whip the coffee foam in advance and keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Before serving, give it a quick whisk to revive the airy texture.
What texture and appearance should I look for when the coffee foam is ready?
The foam should be thick, glossy, and hold soft peaks that sit like a cloud on top of the milk. It should not be watery or separate; a stable, airy mound indicates it’s properly whipped.
What does the YouTube channel Simply Mamá Cooks specialize in?
The YouTube channel Simply Mamá Cooks focuses on easy, family‑friendly recipes that blend Latin American flavors with everyday comfort cooking, offering step‑by‑step tutorials for home cooks of all skill levels.
How does the YouTube channel Simply Mamá Cooks' approach to coffee drinks differ from other coffee channels?
Simply Mamá Cooks emphasizes quick, minimal‑equipment recipes using pantry staples, often adapting trendy drinks like Dalgona coffee with healthier sweetener options, whereas many coffee‑focused channels may use espresso machines or specialty equipment.
Last updated: September 4, 2026
