Dalgona Coffee is more than just a drink—it’s a trend, a visual delight, and a surprisingly simple way to enjoy café-style coffee at home. Made with just instant coffee, sugar, hot water, and milk, this frothy coffee treat became a global sensation in 2020, quickly earning a place in coffee culture as a modern classic.
With its thick, airy foam floating above a layer of milk, Dalgona Coffee is not only eye-catching but also deliciously creamy, slightly sweet, and endlessly customizable. Whether you serve it iced, hot, or flavored, it offers a unique texture and taste that makes it stand out from traditional coffee drinks.
In this complete guide, we’ll walk you through how to make the perfect Dalgona Coffee at home, explain its origins, highlight creative variations, and share expert tips for mastering that irresistible whipped coffee texture.
What is Dalgona Coffee?
Dalgona Coffee is a whipped coffee drink that originated in South Korea and gained international fame during the early days of the COVID-19 lockdowns. The name comes from “Dalgona,” a Korean honeycomb toffee candy known for its light, crunchy texture and caramel flavor.
Despite the name, there is no actual Dalgona candy in the drink. Instead, the coffee foam mimics the look and texture of the candy, resulting in a sweet, frothy topping that’s served over a glass of cold or hot milk.
What makes it so special is the simplicity of the recipe—only four common ingredients—and the striking two-layer presentation.
What Makes Dalgona Coffee So Popular?
✔ Visually Appealing
Dalgona Coffee has a beautiful two-tone effect, with a thick golden-brown foam floating above white milk. It’s perfect for Instagram or TikTok and has become a visual icon in modern coffee culture.
✔ Light, Creamy Texture
The whipped coffee is airy and mousse-like, giving each sip a luxurious feel.
✔ Simple Ingredients
No espresso machine? No problem. Dalgona Coffee uses instant coffee, sugar, and hot water—items most people already have at home.
✔ Versatile and Customizable
From iced versions to chocolate twists, Dalgona Coffee is a blank canvas for creativity.
✔ Fun to Make
The process of whipping the coffee to stiff peaks is satisfying and therapeutic, making it a popular DIY project.
Ingredients for the Perfect Dalgona Coffee
You’ll only need a few pantry staples:
✔ Core Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons instant coffee
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons hot water
- 1 cup (240 ml) milk – cold or hot, depending on preference
- Ice cubes (optional, for iced versions)
✔ Tools:
- Mixing bowl
- Hand whisk, electric mixer, or milk frother
- Tall glass for serving
Pro Tip: Use instant coffee only—regular ground coffee or brewed espresso won’t whip into foam.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Dalgona Coffee
Let’s break down each step to help you create the perfect whipped coffee at home.
Step 1: Make the Whipped Coffee Foam
In a medium-sized bowl, add:
- 2 tbsp instant coffee
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 2 tbsp hot water
Now start whipping:
- Use a hand whisk (takes 3–5 minutes)
- Use a handheld electric mixer (takes 1–2 minutes)
- Or use a milk frother for a quick result
You’re looking for a texture that’s:
- Thick
- Silky
- Able to form stiff peaks
When you lift the whisk, the foam should hold its shape and look glossy.
Tip: Whip in a zig-zag or circular motion for consistent volume.
Step 2: Prepare Your Milk Base
While the foam rests, get your milk ready:
- For iced Dalgona Coffee: Fill a tall glass with ice cubes, then add cold milk.
- For hot Dalgona Coffee: Heat your milk until warm but not boiling, then pour it into a glass or mug.
Tip: Use a clear glass for presentation. The contrast between the layers is part of the charm.
Step 3: Assemble the Drink
Using a spoon or spatula:
- Gently scoop the whipped coffee on top of the milk.
- Spread it out so the layer is thick and even.
Optional: Garnish with cocoa powder, cinnamon, or a drizzle of caramel.
To drink: You can either mix the foam into the milk or sip it layered with a straw for a dynamic flavor.
How Dalgona Coffee Compares to Other Drinks
Wondering how this viral drink stacks up against other coffee favorites?
☕ Dalgona Coffee vs. Cappuccino
- Cappuccino uses espresso and frothed milk.
- Dalgona Coffee uses whipped instant coffee foam over milk, no espresso machine required.
☕ Dalgona Coffee vs. Latte Macchiato
- Latte Macchiato layers espresso over steamed milk.
- Dalgona layers whipped coffee over cold or hot milk.
☕ Dalgona Coffee vs. Greek Frappe
- Greek Frappe also uses instant coffee and foam, but it’s shaken, not whipped, and served fully mixed.
Creative Dalgona Coffee Variations
One of the best parts about Dalgona Coffee is how easy it is to modify. Here are some delicious ways to switch it up:
✔ Mocha Dalgona
- Add 1 tsp cocoa powder to the coffee mix before whipping.
- Use chocolate milk instead of regular milk for a mocha twist.
✔ Vanilla Dalgona
- Add ½ tsp vanilla extract to the milk or foam.
- Sweet, creamy, and dessert-like.
✔ Caramel Dalgona
- Drizzle caramel syrup over the whipped topping.
- Great with warm milk for a cozy version.
✔ Cinnamon Dalgona
- Sprinkle ground cinnamon over the foam.
- Perfect for autumn mornings or spiced lattes.
✔ Matcha Dalgona (Green Tea Version)
- Replace instant coffee with 1 tbsp matcha powder.
- Use egg whites or aquafaba to create the foam if needed.
Tips for the Best Dalgona Coffee Experience
Here’s how to level up your Dalgona Coffee every time:
✅ Use High-Quality Instant Coffee
Stronger brands give better flavor and whip better (try Nescafé Gold or Taster’s Choice).
✅ Don’t Skip the Sugar
Sugar is essential to create structure in the foam. For sugar-free options, try monk fruit or erythritol blends designed for baking.
✅ Whip Until Stiff Peaks
If the foam is runny, keep whisking. It should form peaks like whipped cream.
✅ Try Different Milks
Almond, oat, soy, and coconut milk all work well. Each adds its own twist in flavor and texture.
✅ Make It Ahead (with Care)
Whipped coffee can be refrigerated for up to 1 day, but may deflate slightly. Re-whip before serving if needed.
When to Enjoy Dalgona Coffee
This drink isn’t just about looks—it’s delicious and versatile enough for all kinds of moments:
🌞 Morning Boost
Start your day with a fun, energizing twist on your normal cup.
🍰 Dessert Drink
Sweet and creamy enough to replace a dessert—especially when served with a cookie or biscuit.
☕ Afternoon Pick-Me-Up
Beat the 3 PM slump with a cold, caffeinated treat.
🎉 Hosting Guests
Impress your friends with a visually stunning and easy-to-make coffee.
📸 For the ‘Gram
Let’s be honest—it’s hard not to share a photo of this beautiful creation!
Frequently Asked Questions About Dalgona Coffee
❓ Can I use regular ground coffee?
No—instant coffee is required. Ground coffee won’t dissolve or whip properly.
❓ Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, but the foam may not hold as well. Try using 1 tbsp sugar for a lighter version.
❓ Can I make it without a mixer?
Absolutely! It will just take a little more time. A balloon whisk works best if doing it by hand.
❓ Is it very strong in caffeine?
Yes—2 tablespoons of instant coffee is equivalent to about 2 regular cups. You can reduce the amount for a lighter version.
Final Thoughts: Why Dalgona Coffee Is Still Worth the Hype
Dalgona Coffee may have started as a viral challenge, but it has earned its place as a beloved coffee drink thanks to its unique texture, visual appeal, and delightful flavor. It’s easy enough for beginners, fun enough for coffee lovers, and customizable enough to suit every mood and moment.
So the next time you’re looking for something different, delicious, and beautiful, whip up a Dalgona Coffee. Try the original recipe, explore creative twists, and enjoy every luxurious sip—because coffee should be an experience, not just a drink.