If you think you’ve tasted all the world’s best coffee drinks, it’s time to discover something truly unique and utterly unforgettable: Vietnamese Egg Coffee, or Cà Phê Trứng. This indulgent coffee from Hanoi, Vietnam, is famous for its rich, sweet, and silky egg yolk foam layered over strong, bold Vietnamese coffee. What began as a clever substitute during times of milk shortage has become one of the most beloved and iconic coffee experiences in Southeast Asia.
With its smooth, custard-like cream and robust coffee base, Vietnamese Egg Coffee is part dessert, part beverage, and all-around comfort in a cup. Whether you’re a seasoned coffee explorer or just curious about international flavors, this is a must-try for any true coffee lover.
In this in-depth guide, you’ll learn:
- What makes Vietnamese Egg Coffee special
- Its fascinating origin story
- Step-by-step instructions to make the perfect cup at home
- Tasty variations and expert tips
- How to serve, sip, and fully savor this coffeehouse gem
The Story Behind Vietnamese Egg Coffee
Cà Phê Trứng was created in the 1940s at the legendary Café Giảng in Hanoi by Mr. Nguyen Van Giang, a hotel bartender. During a period of milk scarcity in post-war Vietnam, Mr. Giang began whipping egg yolks with sweetened condensed milk to mimic the texture and sweetness of cream or milk. When poured over robust Vietnamese coffee, this mixture created a rich, frothy topping that resembled a dessert more than a drink.
The innovation quickly caught on, and today, Vietnamese Egg Coffee is a treasured part of Hanoi’s café culture. The original Café Giảng is still family-run, and locals and travelers alike flock there to experience this unique, decadent coffee creation. It’s a symbol of Vietnamese ingenuity, resilience, and, of course, love for coffee.
What Makes Vietnamese Egg Coffee So Special?
Egg coffee isn’t just a quirky novelty—it’s a carefully balanced creation that brings together two distinctive elements:
✔ Creamy, Frothy, Dessert-Like Topping
The whipped egg yolk, blended with sweetened condensed milk (and sometimes sugar or even vanilla), is beaten until it’s pale, thick, and airy. This foam is custardy, velvety, and sweet—like the topping of a tiramisu, but lighter and more cloud-like.
✔ Deep, Bold, Aromatic Coffee
The base of egg coffee is typically strong Vietnamese robusta coffee, brewed using a phin filter for a deep, chocolatey, and slightly bitter kick. The intensity of the coffee provides a perfect contrast to the sweetness and richness of the egg foam.
✔ An Instagram-Worthy Presentation
Served in small, clear cups or glasses, Vietnamese Egg Coffee is visually stunning, with a golden foam cap and dark coffee below. Sometimes the cup is set in a bowl of hot water to keep the drink warm—a traditional Hanoi touch.
✔ Comfort in a Cup
Every sip combines hot, strong coffee with cool, creamy foam, offering a warming and uplifting coffeehouse experience—whether enjoyed as a decadent breakfast, afternoon treat, or dessert.
Ingredients for Authentic Vietnamese Egg Coffee
To make the classic version at home, gather these ingredients:
- ½ cup (120ml) strong Vietnamese coffee (or substitute espresso)
- 1 egg yolk (from a fresh, high-quality egg)
- 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- Boiling water (for a hot water bath to keep the drink warm)
Equipment
- Vietnamese phin filter, espresso machine, or Moka pot
- Mixing bowl and whisk (hand, electric, or milk frother)
- Heatproof glass or cup for serving
- Bowl for hot water bath (optional but recommended)
Tip: Use authentic Vietnamese robusta beans for the most traditional flavor. These beans are bolder, more bitter, and higher in caffeine than arabica—making them ideal for this sweet, creamy drink.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Vietnamese Egg Coffee
Step 1: Brew Strong Coffee
- Use a Vietnamese phin filter: Add 2 tablespoons of finely ground Vietnamese coffee, tamp gently, and pour over hot (not boiling) water. Let it drip slowly into your cup.
- Substitute with a double shot of espresso (2 oz/60ml), or use a Moka pot or French press—just ensure the coffee is strong and aromatic.
Coffee Tip: The coffee should be hot and bold to stand up to the creamy foam.
Step 2: Whip the Egg Yolk Mixture
- In a small bowl, combine 1 egg yolk, 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk, and 1 teaspoon sugar (if using).
- Whisk vigorously for 3-5 minutes using a hand whisk, electric mixer, or milk frother, until the mixture becomes light, pale yellow, and thick with soft peaks.
Consistency Tip: The foam should look almost like cake batter—luxurious, creamy, and slightly airy.
Step 3: Prepare a Hot Water Bath (Optional but Traditional)
- Fill a small bowl with boiling water and place your serving cup inside to keep the coffee hot while you prepare the foam.
- This step mimics the presentation in Hanoi’s classic egg coffee houses.
Step 4: Assemble Your Egg Coffee
- Pour the hot, strong coffee into your serving glass or cup.
- Gently spoon or pour the whipped egg foam on top, creating a thick, fluffy layer.
Serving Tip: Do not stir—the joy of Vietnamese Egg Coffee is sipping the hot, bitter coffee through the cool, sweet egg foam.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Optionally, dust the foam with cocoa powder, cinnamon, or a hint of vanilla for extra aroma.
- Serve immediately. Enjoy with a spoon, sipping the coffee through the foam for the best contrast of flavors and textures.
Vietnamese Egg Coffee: Dessert or Drink?
Egg coffee is unique in that it sits somewhere between a beverage and a dessert. Its custard-like topping is so rich and thick that you might want to eat it with a spoon—while the bottom is pure, energizing coffee. This makes it a fantastic treat after a meal or as an afternoon pick-me-up.
How Does Vietnamese Egg Coffee Compare to Other Coffees?
| Drink | Milk/Cream Base | Sweetener | Texture | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vietnamese Egg Coffee | Egg yolk + condensed | Condensed milk | Thick, custardy | Foam is the star |
| Cappuccino | Steamed milk | None or sugar | Frothy, airy | Classic Italian |
| Latte | Steamed milk | Syrup or sugar | Creamy, smooth | Milk-dominant |
| Affogato | Ice cream | None | Creamy, melting | Dessert-like, cold |
| Spanish Bombón | Condensed milk | Condensed milk | Creamy, layered | Stirred or layered |
Vietnamese Egg Coffee Variations
Once you’ve enjoyed the classic, get creative:
🧊 Iced Egg Coffee (Cà Phê Trứng Đá)
- Prepare as above, then pour over ice for a chilled, refreshing treat.
🍫 Chocolate Egg Coffee
- Add 1 teaspoon cocoa powder to the egg yolk mix before whipping for a mocha twist.
🥥 Coconut Egg Coffee
- Replace some condensed milk with coconut milk for a tropical flair.
🍮 Caramel Egg Coffee
- Drizzle caramel syrup on top of the foam for a decadent dessert coffee.
🥃 Boozy Egg Coffee
- Add a splash of Baileys, Kahlúa, or rum to the coffee base for an after-dinner cocktail.
Expert Tips for Perfect Egg Coffee
✔ Use the freshest eggs possible—they whip better and taste cleaner.
✔ Whip until thick and pale—under-whipped foam will be runny, while over-whipped can turn grainy.
✔ Pour coffee hot and serve immediately—this ensures the foam floats beautifully and the flavors shine.
✔ Try robusta beans for authenticity, but any bold coffee will do in a pinch.
✔ Garnish with a dusting of cocoa, a pinch of cinnamon, or a drop of vanilla extract for extra aroma.
✔ Enjoy with a spoon and a smile—it’s meant to be savored!
Pairing Vietnamese Egg Coffee
Egg coffee is rich, sweet, and satisfying on its own, but it pairs beautifully with:
- Vietnamese sweets like coconut sticky rice or sesame cookies
- Fresh fruit—especially mango or lychee
- Buttery pastries (croissants, shortbread, brioche)
- Dark chocolate or chocolate truffles for a luxurious dessert experience
When to Serve Vietnamese Egg Coffee
This is not your everyday grab-and-go cup! It’s a treat to be enjoyed:
- As a morning luxury—on weekends or special occasions
- For brunch or as an after-dinner dessert
- To impress guests with something exotic and beautiful
- During cold weather—its warmth and richness are wonderfully comforting
- Whenever you want to slow down and savor a little luxury in a cup
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is Vietnamese Egg Coffee safe to drink?
Yes, as long as you use fresh, high-quality eggs. If concerned, use pasteurized eggs.
❓ Does it taste “eggy”?
Surprisingly, no! The eggs add richness and creaminess without a strong egg flavor.
❓ Can I use the whole egg?
No, only the yolk is used for the classic foam; the white is not needed.
❓ Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes—try coconut condensed milk, but the texture may be slightly different.
Final Thoughts
Vietnamese Egg Coffee is much more than a novelty—it’s a celebration of ingenuity, flavor, and texture. Whether you serve it in the traditional style with a hot water bath, add creative flavors, or even chill it for summer, this drink will transform how you think about coffee.
It’s the perfect blend of strong, robust coffee and silky, sweet custard foam—a true “dessert in a cup.” Try making it at home, and you’ll experience a little piece of Hanoi’s café magic, wherever you are in the world.