Dalgona Coffee Recipe: Fluffy Whipped Cream Coffee
Key Takeaways
- Equal parts instant coffee, sugar, and hot water whipped together creates the signature fluffy cream
- A hand whisk works fine in 5–8 minutes — no electric mixer required
- Works hot or iced, and adapts easily to matcha, chocolate, and other flavor variations
Dalgona coffee took the internet by storm in 2020, and for good reason. Just three pantry staples — instant coffee, sugar, and hot water — transform into a cloud-like coffee cream you spoon over cold milk for a stunning café-style drink.
This guide covers the basic recipe, success tips, troubleshooting, and flavor variations.
What Is Dalgona Coffee?
Dalgona coffee is a whipped coffee cream made from equal parts instant coffee, sugar, and hot water, spooned over cold or warm milk. The recipe originated in South Korea and spread globally through TikTok and Instagram.
The name "dalgona" comes from a Korean sugar candy known for its honeycomb texture and sweet flavor.
Ingredients (Serves 1)
Ingredients
- Instant coffee powder: 2 tablespoons (approx. 10g)
- Granulated sugar: 2 tablespoons (approx. 24g)
- Hot water: 2 tablespoons (approx. 30ml)
- Cold milk: 200ml
- Ice cubes (optional)
Equipment Needed
- Deep bowl or large cup
- Electric hand mixer or manual whisk
- Tall glass or cup
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Measure Ingredients
Measure instant coffee, sugar, and hot water in exactly equal amounts. This 1:1:1 ratio is the foundation of the recipe.
Use instant coffee, not ground coffee: Regular ground coffee (for drip or espresso) will not whip into a foam. You must use instant coffee powder (the kind that dissolves in water).
Step 2: Whip the Cream
Combine instant coffee, sugar, and hot water in a bowl. Beat vigorously.
With an electric hand mixer: Whip on high speed for 2–3 minutes until the mixture turns pale and forms stiff peaks.
With a manual whisk: Whisk rapidly for 5–8 minutes. It takes arm strength, but it works. The mixture will gradually lighten in color and thicken.
The cream is ready when it holds stiff peaks — lift the whisk and a peak should hold its shape.
Step 3: Prepare the Milk
Fill a glass with ice and pour in cold milk. For a hot version, use warmed milk.
Step 4: Spoon the Cream on Top
Dollop the whipped coffee cream generously on top of the milk. Use the back of a spoon to shape it for a visual presentation.
Step 5: Stir and Drink
Stir everything together before drinking for a rich, blended flavor. Or sip through the layers for two distinct taste experiences.
Cream too stiff? Add a few drops of hot water and fold gently to loosen. Too runny? Keep whipping — it just needs more time.
Troubleshooting
Why won't my coffee whip?
- Wrong ratio: Make sure all three ingredients are measured equally
- Wrong coffee type: Ground coffee does not work — use instant powder only
- Too little sugar: Sugar stabilizes the foam; do not reduce it
- Too much water: Excess liquid prevents proper whipping; measure carefully
Flavor Variations
Matcha Dalgona: Replace instant coffee with matcha powder. Whip with equal parts sugar and hot water for a vibrant green cream.
Chocolate Dalgona: Use cocoa powder or a malted chocolate drink powder instead of coffee.
Caramel Dalgona: Swap white sugar for brown sugar to add a warm, caramel undertone to the cream.
Summary
- Coffee : Sugar : Hot water = 1:1:1 is the non-negotiable ratio
- Instant coffee is required — ground coffee will not whip
- Electric mixer takes 2–3 minutes; manual whisk takes 5–8 minutes
- Excellent hot or iced, with endless flavor variations
Three ingredients, no special equipment, and a result that looks like it came from a café. Dalgona coffee is one of the easiest ways to impress yourself (and others) at home.
About the Author
Coffee Guide Editorial Team
A team of writers and baristas passionate about coffee. We cover everything from bean selection and brewing methods to café culture.
Team Credentials
- Certified baristas
- Specialty roasting café experience
- Coffee import industry experience