Caramel Whipped Coffee Recipe (Dalgona Coffee)
Introduction to Dalgona Coffee
What is Dalgona Coffee?
Dalgona coffee is a whipped coffee drink that went viral during the early days of the pandemic. With its creamy top and smooth milk base, it looks like something out of a coffee shop. But guess what? You can make it at home in just a few minutes.
Why It Went Viral
TikTok made it famous, but the real reason it blew up? It’s insanely easy and looks luxurious. The fun part? Watching instant coffee, sugar, and hot water transform into a thick cloud of sweet coffee cream.
What Makes Caramel Whipped Coffee Special?
Difference Between Classic and Caramel Versions
Classic Dalgona is all about coffee and sugar. Caramel whipped coffee adds a smooth, buttery twist. It’s still that fluffy treat you love—just with an irresistible caramel flavor.
The Sweet and Creamy Flavor Upgrade
Imagine the warm richness of caramel melting into cold milk with a cloud of whipped coffee floating on top. That’s what we’re talking about. It's coffee dessert in a glass.
Ingredients Needed
Basic Ingredients
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2 tablespoons instant coffee (not ground coffee)
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2 tablespoons granulated sugar
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2 tablespoons hot water
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1–2 tablespoons caramel sauce or syrup
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1 cup milk (any kind: dairy or plant-based)
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Ice cubes (for iced version)
Optional Add-ons for Extra Flavor
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Pinch of sea salt (for salted caramel taste)
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Whipped cream
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Cinnamon or cocoa powder for topping
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Vanilla extract
Tools You’ll Need
Whisk or Hand Mixer?
You can whisk by hand, but it takes serious effort. A hand mixer or milk frother gets it done in under 3 minutes.
The Perfect Serving Glass
Tall, clear glasses show off those gorgeous layers. Mason jars work great too if you’re going for a cozy vibe.
How to Make Caramel Whipped Coffee
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Gather your ingredients.
Step 2: Combine coffee, sugar, and hot water in a bowl.
Step 3: Whisk vigorously until the mixture is thick and foamy.
Step 4: Fill a glass with milk and ice (optional).
Step 5: Spoon the whipped coffee mixture over the milk.
Step 6: Stir and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Perfect Texture
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Use boiling hot water—not lukewarm.
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Make sure your bowl is clean and dry.
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Whip until it’s fluffy like meringue—don’t stop too early.
Step-by-Step Visual Guide
Whipping the Coffee Mixture
(Visuals here would show the mix going from liquid to thick foam.)
Pouring and Layering
(Photos showing caramel drizzle, milk, and the whipped coffee cloud.)
Hot vs Iced Caramel Whipped Coffee
How to Serve It Warm
Heat the milk and skip the ice. The rest of the recipe stays the same. Cozy and comforting.
Chilling for a Refreshing Iced Version
Perfect for summer. Pour over ice and enjoy the cold caramel magic.
Best Occasions to Enjoy This Drink
Morning Boost
Need a fun way to wake up? This creamy coffee has your back.
Midday Treat
Hit that afternoon slump with a sweet caffeine kick.
How to Store Whipped Coffee
Can You Make It Ahead?
Yes! Store the whipped part in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
How Long It Lasts
After two days, it starts to lose volume. Best to make fresh when possible.
Healthier Substitutions
Low Sugar Options
Try using monk fruit sweetener or stevia. Keep in mind, you still need some kind of sugar to get that fluffy whip.
Plant-Based Alternatives
Oat milk, almond milk, or coconut milk all work perfectly.
Popular Variations to Try
Salted Caramel Twist
Add a pinch of sea salt to balance the sweetness.
Mocha Caramel Dalgona
Mix a bit of cocoa powder into the whip or the milk for a chocolatey layer.
Pairing Suggestions
Best Snacks with Caramel Dalgona
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Biscotti
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Mini pancakes
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Croissants
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Chocolate chip cookies
Breakfast Combos
Pair with oatmeal, toast with peanut butter, or banana muffins.
Mistakes to Avoid
Over or Under Whipping
Too little and it’s runny, too much and it can break. Watch for soft, stiff peaks.
Using the Wrong Coffee
Only use instant coffee—brewed coffee won’t whip.
Caramel Whipped Coffee Around the World
Inspired Global Versions
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Korea: The original trendsetter.
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India: Called “beaten coffee” and made by hand.
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Latin America: Often blended with cinnamon or chocolate.
Whipped Coffee (Dalgona Coffee): Advantages and Disadvantages
Whipped coffee, also known as Dalgona coffee, exploded in popularity thanks to its rich taste, creamy texture, and eye-catching appearance. But like any food trend, it comes with both pros and cons.
In this guide, we'll break down the advantages and disadvantages of whipped coffee, using a fun, conversational tone and SEO-optimized content designed to answer all your questions. Whether you're sipping it iced on a summer day or cozying up with a hot version in winter, here's what you need to know.
What is Whipped Coffee (Dalgona Coffee)?
Whipped coffee is made by whipping equal parts of instant coffee, sugar, and hot water until it becomes a light, fluffy foam. This cloud of coffee is then spooned over cold or hot milk to create a beautifully layered drink.
Top Advantages of Whipped Coffee
1. Visually Stunning and Instagram-Worthy
Whipped coffee isn’t just a drink—it’s a show. The creamy, coffee-colored foam sitting on top of milk is perfect for social media shots and café-style presentations.
2. Easy to Make at Home
No espresso machine? No problem. With just three basic ingredients and a whisk (or hand mixer), you can make whipped coffee in minutes.
3. Customizable Flavors
You can easily mix in flavors like vanilla, caramel, cocoa, or cinnamon to give it your own twist. Try dairy-free milk or flavored syrups for something totally unique.
4. Great Alternative to Expensive Café Drinks
Why spend $5+ at a coffee shop when you can create something just as impressive at home? Dalgona coffee is budget-friendly and satisfying.
5. Gives You a Caffeine Boost
Using instant coffee means you still get a good dose of caffeine to kickstart your day or fight off that afternoon slump.
6. Fun to Make with Friends or Family
Whether you're trying it for the first time or teaching someone else, it’s a fun kitchen activity, especially when whipping by hand.
7. Works Hot or Iced
You can enjoy whipped coffee hot in the winter or iced in the summer. It’s flexible, seasonal, and always delicious.
Disadvantages of Whipped Coffee
1. High in Sugar
The traditional 1:1:1 ratio includes quite a bit of sugar. If you’re watching your sugar intake, you’ll need to tweak the recipe or opt for sugar substitutes.
2. Only Works with Instant Coffee
Unfortunately, you can't whip regular ground coffee. This limits your choice of coffee brands and flavors.
3. Whipping by Hand Takes Time
If you don’t have a mixer or frother, whipping the coffee by hand can be tiring. It may take up to 10-15 minutes to get the right consistency.
4. Can Be Too Strong or Bitter
Some people find the whipped coffee layer too strong, especially when made with robust instant coffee. Balancing it with enough milk is key.
5. Not Ideal for Daily Drinking
Due to the sugar content and strong caffeine hit, whipped coffee may not be the healthiest daily drink. It’s more of an occasional treat.
6. Doesn’t Stay Whipped for Long
Once made, the foam can start to collapse after 20–30 minutes. You’ll need to serve and drink it quickly for the best texture.
Health Considerations
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Calories: A standard whipped coffee with sugar and milk can add up to 150–200 calories or more.
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Caffeine: Contains about 100–150 mg per serving depending on the coffee used.
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Sugar Load: Standard recipes use 2 tablespoons of sugar—equal to 24 grams. That’s nearly a full day’s limit for some people.
Tip: Use stevia, monk fruit sweetener, or coconut sugar for a healthier twist.
When to Drink Whipped Coffee
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Morning Boost: Replaces your regular latte with something fancier.
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Afternoon Pick-Me-Up: Perfect for that 3 PM crash.
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Special Treat: When you're craving something sweet and comforting.
Final Thoughts
Why You’ll Love Making This at Home
Caramel whipped coffee isn’t just a drink—it’s a mini celebration in a glass. It’s easy, cheap, Instagram-worthy, and totally customizable. Whether you're craving something sweet or just want to feel like a barista in your own kitchen, this is your go-to treat.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use brewed coffee instead of instant coffee?
No, only instant coffee works to create the whipped texture.
Q2: Can I make this sugar-free?
Yes, but it won’t whip as well. Try monk fruit or stevia blends designed for baking.
Q3: How can I make it vegan?
Use plant-based milk and vegan caramel sauce.
Q4: Can I use flavored instant coffee?
Yes! It can add an extra twist—just avoid sweetened ones.
Q5: Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just maintain the 1:1:1 ratio of coffee, sugar, and hot water.