Dalgona coffee is a whipped coffee beverage that gained international popularity in early 2020 through social media platforms, particularly TikTok and Instagram. The drink consists of a frothy mixture of instant coffee, sugar, and hot water, which is vigorously whisked until it forms a light, mousse‑like foam. This foam is then spooned over a glass of cold or hot milk, creating a two‑layered appearance.
Etymology
The name “dalgona” derives from a Korean street snack, the dalgona (also written “dal-gona” or “ppopgi”), a honey‑comb‑like sugar candy that resembles the foam’s texture. The coffee’s visual similarity to the candy prompted Korean netizens to refer to the beverage as “dalgona coffee.” [1]
Preparation
Typical proportions for the foam are:
- 2 tsp instant coffee granules
- 2 tsp granulated sugar
- 2 tsp hot water
These ingredients are combined in a bowl and whisked—by hand or with an electric mixer—until the mixture becomes thick, glossy, and holds stiff peaks (approximately 3–5 minutes with a hand whisk). The foam is then transferred onto a glass containing 150–200 ml of milk (cold, iced, or heated) and optionally sweetened. Some variations substitute dairy milk with plant‑based alternatives (e.g., oat, almond, or soy milk) or replace instant coffee with freeze‑dried or brewed espresso for different flavor profiles.
Historical and cultural context
The drink’s modern resurgence originated in South Korea, where home baristas posted videos of the preparation method in late 2019. The viral spread was accelerated by the COVID‑19 pandemic, as many individuals sought simple, aesthetically appealing recipes to make at home while socially distancing. By March 2020, the hashtag #dalgonacoffee amassed millions of views on TikTok, prompting coverage in international media outlets such as The New York Times, BBC, and CNN. [2][3]
Commercial adoption
Following its viral popularity, several coffee shop chains and fast‑food retailers introduced menu items branded as “Dalgona” drinks, often adapting the concept to cold‑brew or flavored variants (e.g., caramel, matcha, or chocolate). Some establishments also market pre‑made “dalgona coffee kits” containing instant coffee, sugar, and instructions.
Nutritional considerations
A standard serving (approximately 250 ml milk plus the whipped coffee) contains roughly 150–200 kcal, primarily from sugar and milk. The high sugar content of the whipped topping has been noted in health‑related commentary, highlighting the importance of moderation for individuals monitoring caloric or sugar intake.
Variations and related drinks
- Iced Dalgona Coffee: Served over ice, popular in warm climates.
- Vegan Dalgona Coffee: Uses plant‑based milk and may substitute sugar with alternative sweeteners.
- Dalgona Mocha: Incorporates cocoa powder into the foam mixture.
- Coffee‑free “Dalgona”: Some creators experiment with matcha or chocolate powder in place of coffee, producing analogous foamy toppings.
References
- Korean Cultural Center. “Dalgona (Korean Honeycomb toffee).” 2021.
- The New York Times. “How to Make the Viral Dalgona Coffee.” March 2020.
- BBC News. “The Dalgona coffee craze – what is the frothy drink?” April 2020.
