How to Make Whipped Coffee (Dalgona Coffee)

How to Make Whipped Coffee (Dalgona Coffee): Easy UK Guide

How to Make Whipped Coffee (Dalgona Coffee) at Home

Whipped coffee — also known as Dalgona coffee — became a global trend thanks to its creamy, cloud-like texture and simple ingredients. The best part? You can make it at home in just a few minutes using instant coffee, sugar and hot water.

Below, you’ll learn how to make whipped coffee, how long it takes, flavour variations, and the best coffees to use.

⭐ What Is Whipped Coffee (Dalgona Coffee)?

Whipped coffee is made by beating together equal parts instant coffee, sugar, and hot water until thick, fluffy, and glossy. This whipped or beaten coffee mixture is then spooned over cold milk or hot milk to create a layered drink.

It can be served iced or hot, making it a versatile coffee treat.

If you’d like to learn more about instant coffee, see:

How to Make Whipped Coffee (Step-by-Step)

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp instant coffee

  • 2 tbsp sugar (white sugar, brown sugar, or granulated sugar all work)

  • 2 tbsp hot water

  • Milk of choice (cold milk or warm milk)

  • Ice (optional, for cold coffee)

⚠️ Ground coffee will not work — only instant coffee can whip properly.

Equipment

You can use:

  • A whisk

  • A hand mixer

  • A stand mixer

  • An electric frother

Using an electric mixer reduces whipping time significantly.

Step 1 — Combine the Ingredients

In a bowl, add:

  • 2 tbsp instant coffee

  • 2 tbsp sugar

  • 2 tbsp hot water

This classic instant coffee sugar ratio is the foundation of any whipped coffee recipe.

If you enjoy rich, smooth flavours in your milk base, try brewing with:

Step 2 — Whisk Until Thick and Fluffy

Whisk vigorously for 2–5 minutes, or 1–2 minutes with a hand mixer or stand mixer.

You’re looking for a texture similar to:

  • Whipped cream

  • Meringue

  • A light, glossy foam

The mixture should form soft peaks and hold its shape.

👉 How long does it take to make whipped coffee?
By hand: around 5 minutes
With a mixer: 1–2 minutes

Step 3 — Prepare Your Milk Base

Fill a glass with:

  • Ice (optional)

  • Cold milk or warm milk (about ¾ full)

Dalgona coffee works beautifully with oat milk, almond milk, coconut milk, or whole milk for extra creaminess.

Step 4 — Spoon Over the Whipped Coffee

Gently spoon the whipped coffee over the milk.
Stir before drinking — or enjoy the layered look first!

Cold vs Hot Whipped Coffee

☕ Iced Dalgona Coffee

  • Fill the glass with ice

  • Use cold milk

  • Spoon the whip on top

Perfect for warm days or as a dessert-style cold coffee.

☕ Hot Dalgona Coffee

  • Warm the milk

  • Spoon the whip on top

  • The foam melts slightly, creating a smooth, velvety texture

Whipped Coffee Flavour Variations

Vanilla Whipped Coffee

Add ¼ tsp vanilla extract to the whipped mixture.

Mocha Whipped Coffee

Add 1 tsp cocoa powder before whipping.

Caramel Whipped Coffee

Add caramel syrup to the milk base.

Spiced Dalgona

Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin spice.

For flavoured inspiration, try brewing your milk base with:

Tips for the Perfect Whipped Coffee

  • Use instant coffee only — ground coffee won’t whip

  • Stick to equal parts coffee, sugar and hot water

  • Use very hot water to dissolve the coffee

  • Granulated sugar, white sugar, or brown sugar all work

  • Coconut sugar can work, but whips slightly slower

  • Electric mixers give the best, fastest results

Is Whipped Coffee Strong?

Yes — the whipped mixture is concentrated, meaning the flavour and caffeine hit can feel stronger than a normal cup of coffee.

If you prefer something lighter:

  • Use extra milk

  • Stir thoroughly

  • Add ice or water to dilute

For caffeine guidance, see:

Further Reading

You may also enjoy:

Conclusion

Making whipped coffee at home is quick, fun, and incredibly easy. With just three basic ingredients, you can create a creamy, café-style drink in minutes — whether you prefer it iced or hot, classic or flavoured.

Perfect for anyone who loves a sweet, Instagram-ready coffee treat ☁️☕

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