Vietnamese Iced Coffee, known as Cà Phê Sữa Đá, is a bold and sweet coffee drink made with strong Vietnamese coffee and sweetened condensed milk, served over ice. This refreshing beverage is popular across Vietnam and has gained worldwide recognition for its rich, smooth texture and intense coffee flavor.
Traditionally brewed using a phin filter, this drink offers a slow-extraction process that enhances the deep, chocolatey notes of Vietnamese coffee. The combination of robust coffee, creamy sweetness, and ice creates the perfect balance of strength and smoothness, making it an excellent alternative to sugary iced lattes.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make an authentic Vietnamese Iced Coffee at home, including traditional and alternative brewing methods, tips for selecting the right coffee, and variations to suit your taste.
What Makes Vietnamese Iced Coffee Special?
Vietnamese Iced Coffee is different from other iced coffee drinks due to its intensely strong brew and use of sweetened condensed milk instead of regular milk or sugar. This creates a thicker, richer, and more flavorful drink that balances coffee’s natural bitterness with a creamy sweetness.
✔ Slow-dripped Vietnamese coffee – Creates a bold and complex flavor.
✔ Sweetened condensed milk – Adds a creamy texture and caramel-like sweetness.
✔ Ice-cold serving style – Refreshing and smooth, perfect for warm weather.
✔ No added sugar needed – The condensed milk provides all the sweetness required.
Ingredients & Equipment for Vietnamese Iced Coffee
✔ 2 tablespoons Vietnamese ground coffee (Trung Nguyên or Café Du Monde preferred)
✔ 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
✔ 4-6 oz (120-180ml) hot water
✔ Ice cubes
✔ Phin filter (Vietnamese coffee filter) or alternative brewing method (French press, espresso, or AeroPress)
✔ Tall glass for serving
✔ Spoon for mixing
The phin filter is a small metal drip filter used to brew coffee slowly, allowing for a stronger extraction. If you don’t have one, a French press, espresso machine, or AeroPress can also work as alternatives.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Vietnamese Iced Coffee
Step 1: Brew Strong Vietnamese Coffee
If using a phin filter:
✔ Place the phin filter over a glass.
✔ Add 2 tablespoons of ground coffee into the filter.
✔ Lightly press the metal filter insert on top of the coffee grounds.
✔ Pour a small amount of hot water (about 1-2 tablespoons) to “bloom” the coffee for 30 seconds.
✔ Slowly add the rest of the hot water and cover the filter.
✔ Let the coffee drip for 4-5 minutes.
✔ Tip: The slower the drip, the stronger and more flavorful the coffee.
If using a French press:
✔ Use 2 tablespoons of ground coffee per 6 oz of water.
✔ Brew for 4 minutes, then press and pour over ice.
If using espresso:
✔ Brew a double shot and mix it with sweetened condensed milk.
✔ Pour over ice for a quick version of Vietnamese Iced Coffee.
Step 2: Add Sweetened Condensed Milk
✔ In a tall glass, add 2 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk.
✔ Pour the freshly brewed hot coffee over the condensed milk.
✔ Stir until the coffee and milk are fully combined, creating a creamy texture.
✔ Tip: Adjust the amount of condensed milk based on how sweet you like your coffee.
Step 3: Serve Over Ice
✔ Fill the glass with ice cubes to chill the coffee.
✔ Stir well to ensure the coffee remains cold and smooth throughout.
✔ Tip: For an extra creamy texture, shake the iced coffee in a cocktail shaker before serving.
Variations of Vietnamese Iced Coffee
✔ Cà Phê Sữa Nóng (Hot Vietnamese Coffee) – Serve the coffee hot instead of iced.
✔ Cà Phê Đen Đá (Black Iced Coffee) – Skip the condensed milk for a strong, unsweetened version.
✔ Coconut Vietnamese Iced Coffee – Blend the coffee with coconut milk and ice for a tropical twist.
✔ Egg Coffee (Cà Phê Trứng) – Whip an egg yolk with condensed milk and add it on top of the coffee for a creamy, dessert-like drink.
✔ Salted Vietnamese Coffee – Add a pinch of sea salt to balance the sweetness and bring out the coffee’s natural flavors.
Tips for the Best Vietnamese Iced Coffee
✔ Use authentic Vietnamese coffee – Robusta beans provide a stronger, bolder flavor than Arabica.
✔ Brew slowly – A longer extraction time results in a more concentrated coffee.
✔ Adjust sweetness – Add more or less condensed milk based on preference.
✔ Use plenty of ice – Chilling the coffee properly prevents dilution.
✔ Experiment with flavors – Try coconut milk, cinnamon, or vanilla for unique variations.
Final Thoughts
Vietnamese Iced Coffee is a rich, smooth, and refreshing drink that perfectly balances bold coffee with creamy sweetness. Whether made traditionally with a phin filter or using an alternative brewing method, this coffee is easy to prepare at home and endlessly customizable. Try making it today and experience a taste of Vietnam’s unique coffee culture right in your kitchen.