1-First Step: Preparation and Gathering Ingredients Before you begin, gather all your ingredients and equipment. Using room temperature ingredients isn’t crucial for this recipe, but having everything measured and ready will streamline the process. Choose a clear glass for serving to best showcase the beautiful layered effect of this drink. If using an electric mixer, have it plugged in and ready to go. If whisking by hand, ensure you have a comfortable grip and prepare for a bit of a workout! For those looking to make multiple servings, you can simply multiply the ingredients. However, be mindful that larger batches might require more whipping time and a bigger bowl to accommodate the expanding foam.

2-Second Step: Mixing the Coffee Base In a heat-resistant bowl, combine the instant coffee, sugar, and hot water. The water should be hot but not boiling, as extremely hot water can make it difficult to achieve the right consistency. Mix the ingredients together until the coffee and sugar have dissolved completely. This ratio of equal parts coffee, sugar, and water is the classic proportion that produces the perfect foam structure. Deviating from this ratio might result in a foam that’s either too runny or too stiff to create the desired fluffy texture. For more detailed guidance, check out How to make whipped coffee from Jessica in the Kitchen.

3-Third Step: Whipping to Perfection Begin whipping the mixture vigorously. If using an electric mixer, start on a low speed to combine the ingredients, then increase to medium-high speed. Whip for 3-5 minutes, or until the mixture becomes thick, pale, and forms stiff peaks when you lift the beaters. If whisking by hand, prepare for a bit of a workout! You’ll need to whisk continuously for 8-12 minutes to achieve the right consistency. The key is to incorporate as much air as possible into the mixture. You’ll notice it transform from a dark liquid to a light, mousse-like foam as you whisk. Watch for visual cues that your foam is ready – it should have increased significantly in volume, become a pale golden-brown color, and hold its shape when you stop whisking. At this point, you should be able to turn the bowl upside down without the mixture falling out, which is a sure sign of perfect consistency.

4-Fourth Step: Preparing the Milk Base While your coffee foam is resting, prepare the milk base. Fill your serving glass with ice cubes, then pour in about 1 cup of cold milk. You can use any type of milk you prefer – dairy milk, almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk all work well with this recipe. For a creamier version, you can use milk with a higher fat content. Alternatively, if you prefer a lighter drink, skim or low-fat milk will work just as well. The milk should be cold to create a nice temperature contrast with the room temperature or slightly warm coffee foam.

5-Final Step: Assembly and Serving Using a spoon, gently dollop the whipped coffee mixture on top of the cold milk. Don’t stir it in yet! The beauty of Dalgona coffee lies in its presentation, with the thick, fluffy coffee foam sitting atop the cold milk. For an Instagram-worthy presentation, create multiple layers by alternating milk and foam, or garnish with a dusting of cocoa powder, cinnamon, or crushed coffee beans. You can also add a drizzle of caramel or chocolate syrup on top of the foam for extra sweetness and visual appeal. When ready to drink, stir vigorously to combine the coffee foam with the milk. This creates a smooth, creamy drink with a perfect balance of sweet and bitter flavors. Enjoy immediately while the foam still has its light, airy texture!