How To Make A Dalgona Coffee - Recipe

What is a dalgona?

Many people think the dalgona is a new coffee invention. In fact, it has been around for over a century, flying under the radar.  It made a sharp rise to global fame in 2020 due to a social media fame challenge. And while some viral trends disappear within months, the dalgona remains a popular drink to make at home, standing the test of time.  So, what is a dalgona, why is it so well-liked and how can you make one yourself?

The origin of the dalgona

The historic origin of the dalgona is unknown, though it has been a well-loved recipe all over the world since its key ingredient, instant coffee was invented in 1890.  Just recently, it surged to viral fame as the must-try drink of the 2020 pandemic as social media exploded with lockdown challenges and recipes.

The name dalgona stems from a Korean TV series ‘Stars’ Top Recipe at Fun-Staurant’ in which Korean actor Jung Il-Woo orders a whipped coffee and likens it to Korean candy ‘dalgona’ (similar to cinder toffee. The name has stuck for what was previously known as ‘whipped’ or ‘beaten’ coffee.

Dalgona recipe

The good thing is, you don’t need any fancy equipment for this one; an electric whisk is a bonus but is not strictly necessary. You will need good quality instant coffee, hot water, sugar and milk.

How to make a dalgona:

• Use equal parts instant coffee powder, sugar and hot water (we recommend 1-2tsp of each for one coffee). Add them to a mixing bowl.

• Using a whisk (electric or manual – we recommend this one.) whip the mixture until it is combined, light brown and fluffy in texture. It should hold stiff peaks when the whisk is removed.

• Pour 4-8oz hot or cold milk into a suitable glass.

• Spoon dollops of the coffee mixture on top of the milk.  If it is adequately whipped, it should sit cleanly on top of the milk.

Points to note:

• This recipe can be made with hot or cold, dairy or plant-based milk, depending on your preference.

• Adjust the amount of milk to your taste.

• Add a teaspoon of coffee liqueur into the coffee mixture for an evening coffee treat.

FAQs

Is dalgona a strong coffee?

In terms of caffeine content, the dalgona is similar to a double espresso.  Because it is mixed with equal quantity sugar, it isn’t overpoweringly strong to the taste.  You can further adjust the strength by further diluting with added milk.

Is dalgona Tik Tok famous?

Yes! #dalgonacoffeechallenge was trending hard in 2020 with people all over the world making their own dalgonas at home. Since many people were not able to leave their homes during the pandemic and turned to TikTok for entertainment and connection, the dalgona became one of the most famous at-home coffee recipes of recent times.

Looking for other recipes? Read our article about coffee drinks explained.