How to Make Dalgona Coffee

Published on March 18, 2025

by Rebecca Olson

Dalgona coffee took the internet by storm with its creamy texture and stunning layered look. Originally a popular South Korean treat, this whipped coffee recipe is quick, easy, and requires just a few ingredients.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to make Dalgona coffee at home, tips to get the perfect froth, and how to customize it to match your taste and lifestyle.

What Is Dalgona Coffee?

Dalgona coffee is a whipped beverage made by vigorously mixing instant coffee, sugar, and hot water into a creamy foam, then spooning it over a glass of cold or hot milk. It’s named after a South Korean sugar candy known for its similar texture and color.

While the recipe is simple, getting the right consistency requires a few techniques. Let’s break down the steps.

Step-by-Step: Making the Perfect Dalgona Coffee

Follow these steps to make café-style Dalgona coffee in your own kitchen.

1. Gather the Ingredients

To begin, assemble all the ingredients and tools. Dalgona coffee uses just three core ingredients and your choice of milk.

Here’s what you’ll need:

2 tablespoons of instant coffee
2 tablespoons of granulated sugar
2 tablespoons of hot water
1 cup of milk (dairy or non-dairy)
A bowl and a hand whisk or electric mixer

2. Whip the Coffee Mixture

Combine the instant coffee, sugar, and hot water in a bowl. Whip the mixture until it becomes thick and frothy. This usually takes about 8–10 minutes by hand, or 2–3 minutes with an electric mixer.

To get the ideal frothy texture, keep in mind:

Use equal parts coffee, sugar, and water
Whisk in a zig-zag or figure-8 motion for better volume
Use a chilled metal bowl to speed up the process
Check that peaks hold their shape before stopping
Don’t under-whip or the foam will separate too quickly

3. Prepare the Milk Base

Pour your preferred milk into a glass. You can use cold milk with ice for a refreshing drink, or heat it up for a cozy version. Fill the glass about 3/4 full to leave room for the foam.

Ideas for milk variations include:

Oat milk for a creamy, nutty flavor
Almond milk for a lighter texture
Coconut milk for a tropical twist
Soy milk for a protein-rich option
Whole milk for a classic, thick base

4. Spoon the Foam Over the Milk

Gently spoon the whipped coffee on top of the milk. Use a spatula or the back of the spoon to spread it evenly. The foam should sit atop the milk without sinking.

Tips to layer like a pro:

Pour the milk slowly to avoid bubbles
Use a spoon to flatten the surface before adding foam
Spoon from the edges to control flow
Swirl gently with a straw for a marbled look
Serve immediately to maintain texture

5. Customize and Enjoy

Make your Dalgona coffee your own by experimenting with flavors and toppings. While the original recipe is simple, it’s also flexible and fun to personalize.

Creative twists to try:

Dust with cocoa powder or cinnamon
Add a few drops of vanilla or hazelnut extract
Top with chocolate shavings or crushed cookies
Use flavored instant coffee for variety
Serve with a scoop of ice cream for dessert-style coffee

Real-Life Tip

If you don’t have an electric mixer, use a mason jar! Add the coffee, sugar, and hot water, screw the lid on tightly, and shake vigorously for 5–7 minutes. It takes effort, but it works surprisingly well.

Jar-shaking works best with:

Small batch (1–2 servings max)
Hot water to dissolve sugar quickly
Plastic lid to reduce hand strain
Alternating shake/rest to avoid leaks
Instant espresso powder for deeper flavor

Common Mistakes

Dalgona coffee looks easy, but it’s also easy to mess up if you skip small details. Watch for these common errors as you whip up your next glass.

Be mindful of these pitfalls:

Using brewed coffee instead of instant
Skipping sugar—it’s essential for foam stability
Overwhipping until the foam becomes grainy
Adding foam before milk settles
Using too little liquid, causing the coffee to clump

Tips for Different Lifestyles

Dalgona coffee can fit into just about anyone’s routine with a few adjustments. Here’s how to enjoy it whether you’re in a rush or looking for a treat.

Make it work for your lifestyle with these ideas:

Busy mornings: Pre-whip and refrigerate the foam for 1–2 days
Low sugar: Use sugar alternatives like monk fruit or stevia blends
Kids’ version: Swap coffee for cocoa powder or instant malt
Minimalists: Use a single glass jar for shaking and serving
Creative types: Try layering with matcha or beetroot whip

Further Advice for Dalgona Enthusiasts

If Dalgona coffee becomes a go-to in your kitchen, try expanding your skills and presentation. You can experiment with aesthetics and technique to get professional results.

Step it up with these pro tips:

Use cold brew cubes instead of ice for extra depth
Decorate the glass rim with caramel or sugar crystals
Whip in a metal bowl for quicker results
Chill your glassware before serving
Practice piping the foam with a pastry bag

Takeaway

Dalgona coffee is proof that a luxurious drink doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few pantry staples and a little technique, you can enjoy a café-style treat anytime—whether you prefer it classic, flavored, or totally customized.