How to Make Whipped Coffee (Dalgona Coffee)

How to Make Whipped Coffee (Dalgona Coffee): Easy At-Home Recipe

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

Below, you’ll learn how to make whipped coffee step by step, how long it takes, popular flavor variations, and the best coffee 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 mixture is then spooned over cold or hot milk to create a layered drink.

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

If you want to learn more about instant coffee, see:

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

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp instant coffee

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

  • 2 tbsp hot water

  • Milk of choice (cold or warm)

  • Ice (optional, for iced whipped coffee)

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

For best results, use high-quality instant coffee such as:

Equipment

You can use:

  • A whisk

  • A hand mixer

  • A stand mixer

  • An electric milk frother

Electric mixers significantly reduce whipping time.

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 every dalgona coffee recipe.

Step 2 — Whisk Until Thick and Fluffy

Whisk vigorously:

  • By hand: 3–5 minutes

  • With a mixer: 1–2 minutes

The mixture should look like:

  • Whipped cream

  • Soft meringue

  • Light, glossy foam

It should form soft peaks and hold its shape.

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

Step 3 — Prepare Your Milk Base

Fill a glass about ¾ full with:

  • Cold milk or warm milk

  • Ice (optional)

Dalgona coffee works especially well with:

  • Oat milk

  • Almond milk

  • Coconut milk

  • 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!

Iced vs Hot Whipped Coffee

☕ Iced Dalgona Coffee

  • Fill a glass with ice

  • Add cold milk

  • Spoon whipped coffee on top

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

☕ Hot Dalgona Coffee

  • Heat the milk

  • Spoon the whipped coffee on top

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

Whipped Coffee Flavor 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 more inspiration, explore the
Flavored Coffee Collection

Tips for the Perfect Whipped Coffee

  • Use instant coffee only

  • Stick to equal parts coffee, sugar, and hot water

  • Use very hot water to dissolve the coffee

  • White, brown, or granulated sugar all work

  • Coconut sugar works but whips more slowly

  • Electric mixers give the best results

Is Whipped Coffee Strong?

Yes — the whipped mixture is concentrated, so the flavor and caffeine hit can feel stronger than a regular cup of coffee.

If you prefer a lighter drink:

  • Add more milk

  • Stir thoroughly

  • Add ice or water to dilute

For caffeine guidance, see:
How Much Caffeine Is in a Cup of Coffee?

Can You Make Whipped Coffee Without Instant Coffee?

This is a common question — but traditional whipped coffee cannot be made without instant coffee. Brewed or ground coffee doesn’t contain the soluble compounds needed to whip properly.

If you want a similar creamy texture without instant coffee, alternatives like cold foam or whipped cream toppings work better.

Further Reading

You may also enjoy:

Conclusion

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

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

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