Dalgona Coffee (Whipped): The Viral Recipe Is Easier Than You Think

If you’ve scrolled through coffee recipes online, you’ve seen it: the thick, cloud-like coffee whip perched on top of milk. Dalgona coffee became a home-brew sensation for a reason. It’s easy, impressive, and doesn’t require anything fancy to get started.

But there are ways to upgrade it. Better ingredients. Tools that save time. Flavor twists that move it beyond the basic. Here’s how to make the classic version, plus a few gourmet variations and the right gear to improve your results.

What Is Dalgona Coffee?

At its core, Dalgona is just whipped instant coffee, sugar, and hot water. When mixed vigorously, the trio forms a light foam with a strong aroma and bitterness. That foam is spooned over a glass of cold or warm milk, creating a layered drink with a silky top and creamy base.

No espresso machine required. No complicated steps. But the details matter.

Base Recipe: Classic Dalgona Coffee

Ingredients

2 tablespoons instant coffee (use freeze-dried types like Nescafé Gold or Mount Hagen)

2 tablespoons granulated sugar

2 tablespoons hot water

Milk of choice (cold or hot)

Ice (optional)

Steps

1. Combine the coffee, sugar, and hot water in a bowl.
2. Whip using a hand mixer for 2–4 minutes until stiff peaks form.
3. Fill a glass with milk (about ¾ full) and ice if using.
4. Spoon the whipped coffee over the milk and serve.

For the best texture, use a handheld electric milk frother like the Zulay Original Milk Frother (around $15) or a standard hand mixer. Whipping by hand with a whisk is possible, but takes longer and usually results in less volume.

Ingredient Notes: Why Instant Coffee?

Dalgona relies on the emulsifying agents in instant coffee granules. Brewed coffee or espresso won't whip the same way. Look for brands like:

Mount Hagen Organic ($10–12): Smooth flavor with less bitterness

Café Bustelo Instant ($5–6): Stronger and darker for bold results

Starbucks VIA ($8–10): Convenient but can taste a bit sharp unless paired with extra milk

Avoid flavored or blended instant sticks; they often contain creamers or sugars that prevent proper whipping.

Tools That Make A Difference

Basic kitchen tools work, but if you're making this often—or want to get a more barista-level finish—here are some tools that upgrade the process:

Milk Frother: The PowerLix Milk Frother ($12–14) is faster than whisking and easy to clean.

Mini Electric Whisk: The SIMPLETaste Electric Whisk (about $15) gives better volume in under 2 minutes.

Hand Mixer: For large batches, a traditional mixer like the KitchenAid 5-Speed Hand Mixer ($39–49) whips more evenly and holds peaks better.

Double-Walled Glasses: Bodum Pavina ($20 for a set) shows off the layers and keeps the drink insulated.

Iced Vanilla Dalgona: A Flavored Twist

This version softens the bitter edge of classic Dalgona with a little sweetness and aroma.

Ingredients

2 tbsp instant coffee

2 tbsp sugar

2 tbsp hot water

½ tsp vanilla extract

Cold milk

Ice

Steps

1. Whip coffee, sugar, water, and vanilla together until thick.
2. Pour cold milk over ice in a glass.
3. Top with whipped mixture.

Vanilla adds dimension without overpowering. For a natural boost, try Nielsen-Massey Pure Vanilla Extract. It’s pricier ($15–18 for 4 oz) but makes a noticeable difference.

Mocha Dalgona: Chocolate-Infused Version

For chocolate lovers, adding cocoa powder turns this into a dessert-like drink.

Ingredients

2 tbsp instant coffee

1½ tbsp sugar

1 tbsp cocoa powder (Dutch-processed recommended)

2 tbsp hot water

Warm milk or iced milk

Steps

1. Mix coffee, sugar, cocoa, and hot water in a bowl.
2. Whip until fluffy and smooth.
3. Pour milk into a glass and spoon the mocha whip on top.

Use high-quality cocoa, such as Valrhona or Ghirardelli. Natural cocoa tends to make the foam collapse faster.

Dalgona Matcha (No Coffee)

This isn’t a traditional Dalgona, but if you’re looking for a caffeine-lighter or non-coffee option, whipped matcha offers a similar texture.

Note: Matcha doesn’t whip on its own. You'll need egg whites or aquafaba (chickpea brine) as the base.

Ingredients

2 tbsp aquafaba or 1 egg white

1½ tsp matcha powder

2 tsp sugar

Steps

1. Whip the aquafaba or egg white until frothy.
2. Add sugar and matcha powder, then continue whipping until soft peaks form.
3. Serve over milk like standard Dalgona.

Matcha Brands Worth Trying

Ippodo Tea Sayaka Matcha ($20–25): Smooth and vibrant

MatchaBar Ceremonial Grade ($17–22): Slightly sweet with grassy notes

Milk Options: What Tastes Best?

Whole milk is classic for its body, but oat milk and almond milk work well too. Choose options without gums or added sugar for the cleanest flavor. Popular picks:

Oatly Barista Edition: Creamy and neutral, foams decently

Califia Farms Almond Barista: Light with a mild nutty tone

Minor Figures Oat: Balanced texture, great cold

For hot versions, warm your milk first using a stovetop pan or a milk steamer like the Instant Milk Frother ($30–35).

Tips To Improve Flavor

1. Use filtered water when whipping. Tap water with high mineral content can affect taste and volume.
2. Don’t reduce the sugar. It’s essential for stabilizing the foam.
3. For a stronger kick, stir some of the whip into the milk before drinking, then enjoy the rest as a topping.
4. Add a pinch of sea salt to the foam to tone down bitterness.

Is It Worth Upgrading Ingredients?

Yes, especially if you're drinking this more than once a week. Higher-grade instant coffee and better cocoa or vanilla will noticeably improve the taste. Frothers and glassware don’t change the flavor but elevate the presentation and ease.

For regular home coffee makers looking to branch out, Dalgona is a low-cost, low-effort way to try something different without buying a full espresso machine. A $15 frother and $10 jar of premium instant coffee are all you need.

Final Thoughts: Easy Gateway To Better Coffee

Dalgona coffee isn’t just a trend—it’s an easy gateway to better coffee drinks at home. Whether you’re sticking with the basic recipe or trying a twist like mocha or matcha, you can upgrade the flavor, texture, and presentation with a few smart changes.

Ready to go further? Compare frothers and instant coffee brands to find your ideal combo. Or try the mocha variation today with the cocoa already in your pantry. If you're enjoying the experience, consider investing in better milk options and a proper hand mixer for even smoother results.