Dalgona Whipped Iced Coffee is a visually stunning and deliciously creamy coffee drink that captured global attention during the 2020 pandemic as people sought creative ways to enjoy café-style beverages at home. This trendy coffee features a frothy, whipped layer of sweetened coffee foam sitting atop a glass of cold milk and ice, delivering both a delightful texture and intense coffee flavor. The name “Dalgona” originates from a Korean honeycomb toffee candy known for its light, airy texture and caramelized flavor, which inspired the frothy whipped coffee topping resembling its cloud-like appearance. Dalgona coffee quickly became a viral sensation on social media platforms, encouraging millions worldwide to whip together this simple yet elegant drink using just a few pantry staples.
The History of Dalgona Coffee
Though whipped coffee drinks have existed in various forms globally, Dalgona coffee’s rise to fame was sparked by South Korean actor Jung Il-woo’s appearance on a popular variety show in early 2020. The actor compared the whipped coffee’s texture and taste to dalgona candy, popular in Korea during the 1970s and 1980s, coining the term. The drink gained tremendous momentum on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube as people experimented with whipping instant coffee, sugar, and hot water to create a fluffy, mousse-like topping. This trend coincided with the worldwide COVID-19 lockdowns, where people craved novel recipes to brighten their home routines. Since then, dalgona coffee has cemented its place in coffee culture as a fun and approachable way to elevate a simple cup of iced coffee.
Ingredients Breakdown
The core ingredients of Dalgona Whipped Iced Coffee include instant coffee, sugar, hot water, milk, and ice. Instant coffee is essential for achieving the thick, frothy texture because its granules dissolve quickly and trap air when whipped vigorously. Granulated sugar sweetens the foam and helps stabilize it, creating a light yet structured topping. Hot water activates the coffee and sugar, allowing them to blend smoothly before whipping. Milk serves as the creamy base for the drink, typically chilled whole or 2% milk, but any plant-based milk such as almond, oat, or soy works well as alternatives. Ice cubes chill the drink and provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, sweet coffee foam. No additional flavorings are necessary, though vanilla or cocoa powder can be added for variation.
Step-by-Step Recipe
Begin by combining equal parts instant coffee, granulated sugar, and hot water—usually 2 tablespoons of each—in a medium bowl. Using a hand mixer or whisk, beat the mixture vigorously until it thickens into a light, fluffy mousse that holds stiff peaks. This can take 3 to 5 minutes with an electric mixer, or longer by hand. Fill a tall glass with ice cubes and pour in your choice of cold milk until about three-quarters full. Spoon or pipe the whipped coffee foam gently over the milk, creating a layered effect. Serve the drink with a straw or stir vigorously before drinking to blend the rich foam with the creamy milk. Enjoy immediately for the best texture.
Tips for the Perfect Dalgona Coffee
Use high-quality instant coffee for the best flavor and froth. Fresh sugar and very hot water help dissolve ingredients completely, ensuring a smooth, stable foam. Whipping speed matters—a hand mixer or stand mixer will achieve the froth much faster than whisking by hand. For those whisking manually, take breaks to avoid fatigue and use a large bowl to allow plenty of air incorporation. Adjust sweetness by varying the sugar amount, but keep equal parts coffee and sugar for optimal whipping. Serve immediately, as the foam can start to deflate after sitting too long. Experiment with different milks to find your favorite creaminess and flavor balance.
Variations and Customizations
Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or cocoa powder to the whipped coffee mixture for a spiced or mocha twist. Substitute the sugar with alternatives like honey, maple syrup, or flavored syrups, though the whipping texture may slightly change. Use flavored milk—such as vanilla or chocolate—to add depth to the base. For a vegan version, choose plant-based milk and ensure your sugar is vegan-friendly. Blend the whipped coffee with ice and milk in a blender to make a creamy dalgona frappé. Garnish with grated chocolate, coffee beans, or edible flowers to enhance presentation.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value
Dalgona Whipped Iced Coffee contains caffeine from instant coffee and sugar for sweetness, so it is moderately high in calories compared to plain iced coffee. The amount of sugar used can be adjusted or substituted with sugar-free sweeteners for a lower-calorie option. Milk adds protein, calcium, and fat, which contribute to satiety but also increase calorie content. Using whole milk or creamier alternatives increases fat content, while plant-based milks may lower calories but vary in nutrient profiles. This drink is best enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than a daily beverage, especially for those monitoring sugar intake or caffeine sensitivity.
FAQ
Q: Can I use regular brewed coffee instead of instant coffee?
A: No, the foam requires instant coffee granules to whip properly; brewed coffee will not create the frothy texture.
Q: How long does dalgona coffee foam last?
A: The foam is best consumed immediately but can hold for about 15 to 30 minutes before it starts to deflate.
Q: Can I make this drink without sugar?
A: Sugar is crucial for stabilizing the foam, but you can experiment with sugar substitutes, though the texture may vary.
Q: Is dalgona coffee suitable for children?
A: It contains caffeine, so it is not recommended for young children or those sensitive to caffeine.
Q: Can I make a hot version of dalgona coffee?
A: The whipped foam can be added to hot milk for a warm drink, but the foam texture may change when heated.
Dalgona Whipped Iced Coffee
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons instant coffee
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons boiling water
- A pinch of cinnamon optional
- 1 cup milk of your choice soy, almond, oat, or any preferred variety
Instructions
- Combine the instant coffee, sugar, and boiling water in a bowl (you can easily double or triple the recipe). Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, whip the mixture on high speed. Continue whipping for about 2 minutes, scraping down the sides as needed to ensure everything is fully whipped. Taste the foam—it will be quite strong but will be diluted once mixed with milk. Add more sugar if you prefer it sweeter; some people add an extra tablespoon, but it’s usually fine as is since it will be mixed with milk. Pour your favorite milk (about 8 ounces or 1 cup) into a tall glass—I’ve used soy, almond, and oat milk with great results. For iced coffee, add ice cubes first, then pour in the milk, and finally spoon the whipped coffee on top. For a hot version, just add the whipped coffee directly to the milk. Stir vigorously with a spoon or straw to combine the whipped coffee with the milk. Sip, enjoy, and don’t forget to snap a photo! 😉