If you’ve been scrolling through social media lately, you’ve probably stumbled upon that gorgeous, velvety foam sitting atop a glass of milk, beckoning you to give it a try. This delight is none other than the Whipped Coffee (Dalgona Coffee) Recipe, a stunning trend that combines simple ingredients to create a luxuriously creamy and sweet coffee experience. Packed with bold flavor and a dreamy texture, this recipe turns instant coffee into an eye-catching treat that feels both indulgent and easy to whip up in minutes. Whether you’re craving a refreshing afternoon pick-me-up or a charming way to impress guests, this Whipped Coffee (Dalgona Coffee) Recipe will become your new favorite coffee ritual.

Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about this Whipped Coffee (Dalgona Coffee) Recipe is how few ingredients it requires, yet every single one plays a crucial role. These simple pantry staples come together to build that iconic frothy crown and make the drink both flavorful and refreshingly rich.
- Instant Coffee Powder: The magic behind the frothy foam, instant coffee easily whips up to create the signature fluffy texture without bitterness.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the whipped coffee and helps stabilize the foam for that thick, creamy consistency.
- Hot Water: Acts as the base to dissolve the coffee and sugar, activating the whipping process.
- Milk: Provides a silky and cool canvas for the whipped coffee to rest on, balancing the bold flavors with its creamy taste.
- Ice Cubes: Keep your drink refreshingly chilled, perfect for hot days or when you want an energizing iced treat.
How to Make Whipped Coffee (Dalgona Coffee) Recipe
Step 1: Whip the Coffee Mixture
Start by combining the instant coffee powder and granulated sugar in a small bowl. Add the hot water and get ready to whisk! Using a hand whisk or electric mixer, beat the mixture vigorously until it transforms into a light, fluffy, and creamy foam. This usually takes a few minutes, and you can add a little extra water drop by drop if the mixture seems too stiff. This step is where all the magic happens, turning simple ingredients into that irresistible cloud of coffee.
Step 2: Prepare the Glass
Fill your favorite glass generously with ice cubes to ensure your drink stays chilled and refreshing. Pour in the milk, plain or your preferred variety, filling the glass most of the way. This cold, creamy base is essential because it perfectly contrasts the intense sweetness and strong coffee flavor of the topping.
Step 3: Top with the Whipped Coffee
Now for the fun part: spoon or dollop the beautiful, airy coffee foam right on top of the milk. The thick coffee layer should sit proudly above the milk without sinking, giving that signature two-tone look that’s all the rage. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply stir the whipped coffee into the milk and savor the delightful blend of textures and flavors.
How to Serve Whipped Coffee (Dalgona Coffee) Recipe

Garnishes
Enhance your Whipped Coffee (Dalgona Coffee) Recipe by adding a sprinkle of cocoa powder or a dusting of cinnamon on top of the whipped foam. This adds an extra dimension of aroma and a subtle kick of spice, turning your coffee into an even more luxurious experience. For a touch of flair, try shaving some dark chocolate or adding a few coffee beans as a decorative and tasty garnish.
Side Dishes
Pair this creamy whipped coffee with light and delicate treats like almond biscotti, buttery shortbread cookies, or a slice of pound cake. The subtle sweetness and crisp textures from these sides complement the rich and fluffy coffee foam beautifully. If you prefer something fruitier, a bowl of fresh berries or orange segments can balance out the drink’s sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress friends or family? Serve your Whipped Coffee (Dalgona Coffee) Recipe in clear glass mugs to show off the stunning layers. For an extra playful twist, try layering the whipped coffee over flavored milk like vanilla or chocolate for new flavor adventures. You could also turn this into a frappé by blending the milk and ice before topping with the foam for a frozen treat that’s perfect on a warm day.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to whip up more coffee foam than you can drink, store the leftover whipped coffee in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Keep in mind, the texture might slightly deflate over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh for that iconic fluffiness.
Freezing
Freezing whipped coffee foam is not recommended since the texture and airy quality suffer greatly. It’s much better to prepare it fresh each time to enjoy the full frothy effect and delightful mouthfeel this Whipped Coffee (Dalgona Coffee) Recipe offers.
Reheating
This coffee is best served cold, so reheating isn’t really suitable. To enjoy a warm version, you could gently warm the milk before adding the whipped coffee on top, but avoid heating the foam itself to preserve its texture and flavor balance.
FAQs
Can I use ground coffee instead of instant coffee?
Instant coffee is essential for this whipped coffee recipe because it dissolves quickly and whips up into a fluffy foam. Ground coffee won’t whip properly, so stick with instant for the best results.
Is there a way to make this recipe less sweet?
Absolutely! You can reduce the sugar or substitute it with a sweetener of your choice like honey, maple syrup, or a zero-calorie sweetener, though this might affect the foam’s stability and sweetness level.
Can I make a vegan version?
Definitely. Use your favorite plant-based milk, like almond, oat, or soy milk, and this Whipped Coffee (Dalgona Coffee) Recipe will be just as delicious and creamy.
How long does it take to whip the coffee?
Using a hand whisk may take around 3 to 5 minutes, whereas an electric mixer typically takes about 2 minutes. It’s a workout for your arm if you’re whisking manually but so worth it!
What’s the best way to enjoy this coffee?
Whisk the foam just before serving for maximum fluffiness, pour over cold milk and ice, and give it a good mix. Sip slowly so you can savor the contrast between creamy milk and velvety coffee foam.
Final Thoughts
This Whipped Coffee (Dalgona Coffee) Recipe has all the charm of a coffeehouse treat you can easily recreate right at home, without the fancy equipment. Its playful texture, charming appearance, and simple preparation make it perfect for sharing or just treating yourself. Dive in and whip up a batch—you’ll soon discover why it became such a beloved sensation worldwide!
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Whipped Coffee (Dalgona Coffee) Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Korean
Description
Whipped Coffee, also known as Dalgona Coffee, is a trendy and visually appealing beverage made by whipping equal parts instant coffee, sugar, and hot water until light and frothy, then serving it over cold milk and ice. This easy-to-make recipe yields a creamy and smooth coffee drink with a perfect balance of sweet and bitter flavors, ideal for a refreshing treat any time of day.
Ingredients
Coffee Mixture
- 3 Tbsp Instant Coffee Powder
- 3 Tbsp Granulated Sugar
- 2 Tbsp Hot Water
Serving
- 4 cups Milk (chilled)
- Ice Cubes (as needed)
Instructions
- Prepare the Coffee Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the instant coffee powder and granulated sugar. Add 2 tablespoons of hot water. Using a whisk, beat the mixture vigorously until it becomes light, fluffy, and forms stiff peaks. If the mixture is too thick, add a few drops of hot water and continue whisking to reach the desired airy consistency.
- Assemble the Drink: Fill each serving glass with ice cubes, then pour chilled milk over the ice, filling the glass up to about three-quarters full. Carefully spoon or scoop the whipped coffee mixture on top of the milk, creating a layered effect.
- Serve and Enjoy: Mix the whipped coffee into the milk before drinking to combine the rich, frothy coffee flavor with the creamy milk. Serve immediately chilled for the best taste.
Notes
- For best results, use instant coffee powder rather than ground coffee.
- Adjust sugar quantity to taste if you prefer a less sweet or stronger coffee flavor.
- Whipping the mixture by hand may take 5–10 minutes; an electric mixer can speed up the process.
- Use any type of milk based on preference, including dairy or plant-based alternatives.
- This drink is best served immediately as the whipped coffee texture can deflate over time.

