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Dalgona Coffee took the world by storm and for good reason. This simple whipped coffee drink is the perfect mix of creamy, frothy, and sweet. It is one of those treats that looks incredibly fancy but only needs a few pantry staples and about ten minutes. I made my first Dalgona coffee during the heat of summer and the cool, velvety combination convinced my whole family to request it again and again.
Each time I make it I am reminded of the first summer my husband and I challenged each other to see who could get the fluffiest whip we never got tired of taste testing
Ingredients
- Instant espresso powder or instant coffee: choose a good fresh jar for best flavor bold instant espresso offers the traditional taste
- Granulated sugar or brown sugar: both work brown sugar adds a touch of caramel use fresh soft sugar for better dissolving
- Hot water: filtered water if possible it helps give the whip its signature light texture
- Vanilla: optional for added depth a pure extract is best
- Ice: freshly made ice cubes keep your drink extra cold
- Milk: any kind works whole milk for richness or any plant milk for dairy free
Using a high quality instant coffee or espresso makes all the difference in flavor and helps achieve better foam
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Whip:
- Combine two tablespoons of instant espresso or coffee with two tablespoons of granulated or brown sugar and two tablespoons of hot water in a small bowl Add a splash of vanilla if you are using it Take a whisk or hand mixer and beat the mixture vigorously for five to six minutes Keep going until the mixture is glossy and forms stiff peaks similar to whipped cream
- Pour the Milk:
- Fill a glass with ice cubes to your preference Pour your favorite chilled milk on top leaving some room at the top of the glass for the coffee whip
- Add the Coffee Foam:
- Take generous scoops of your whipped coffee mixture and gently dollop it over the milk Try to pile it high for a dramatic creamy finish
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Stick in a straw or use a spoon and swirl everything together or sip the layers as is for full effect
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I truly love the caramel kick that brown sugar adds My husband and I once spent an afternoon testing every instant coffee in our pantry to find our ideal blend and brown sugar came out on top every time
Storage Tips
The whipped coffee topping can be kept in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a day If you want to save extra whip for later simply give it a quick stir before using Milk should always be added fresh right before serving to keep the layers visually stunning and tasty
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have instant espresso you can swap in any favorite instant coffee for a slightly milder drink Plant milks such as almond oat or coconut work beautifully You can also try coconut sugar or maple syrup in place of sugar but whipping time may vary
Serving Suggestions
Top your Dalgona with a sprinkle of cocoa powder cinnamon or a few coffee beans for an extra special look and aroma For dessert spoon it over vanilla ice cream or brownies for an easy coffee flavored treat
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A Little History
Dalgona coffee began as a South Korean twist on an old fashioned hand whipped coffee treat It became especially popular online as people looked for fun ways to connect and create during more time at home There is a nostalgic kinship between the taste of whipped coffee and the honeycomb toffee candy that shares its name
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of coffee works best for Dalgona?
Instant espresso or instant coffee dissolves best, creating thick, creamy foam. Use strong varieties for bolder flavor.
- → Can I make Dalgona without instant coffee?
Yes! Use very strong drip coffee; combine with sugar and whip vigorously, though the results may not be as fluffy.
- → Is it possible to whip Dalgona without sugar?
Sugar helps stabilize the foam. Reducing sugar makes for a softer topping, but omitting completely will thin the texture.
- → What are creative ways to serve Dalgona?
Try the coffee foam on ice cream, brownies or even milkshakes for a coffee-flavored twist on desserts.
- → Which milk pairs best with Dalgona coffee?
Whole milk gives a richer taste, but any milk or plant-based alternative can be used to customize your drink.
- → How do I achieve the perfect foam consistency?
Beat coffee, sugar, and hot water until firm peaks form, using an electric mixer or whisk for 5-6 minutes.