A Recipe for Making Cloud Coffee at Home: Dalgona-Style Without a Coffee Machine

If you’ve ever scrolled through Instagram or TikTok during your morning coffee craving, you’ve likely seen the trending drink known as cloud coffee, also called whipped coffee or Dalgona coffee. The best part? You don’t need to go to a café or own a frother to enjoy it.

Here’s a recipe for making cloud coffee at home that’s quick, easy, and totally satisfying. You’ll also learn tips, variations, and how to get that perfect whipped texture using ingredients you already have in your kitchen.

What Is Cloud Coffee?

Cloud coffee is a whipped drink made from equal parts of instant coffee, sugar, and hot water, beaten together until it forms a frothy, creamy foam. This rich coffee topping is then spooned over a glass of cold or hot milk. It gets its name from the soft, fluffy texture that resembles a cloud floating on your drink.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe for making cloud coffee at home uses only a few pantry staples:

• 2 tablespoons instant coffee (regular or decaf)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (white or brown)
• 2 tablespoons hot water
• 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
• Ice (optional for iced version)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Combine Your Whipping Ingredients

In a small mixing bowl, add:

• 2 tbsp instant coffee
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 2 tbsp hot water

Using a hand whisk, electric mixer, or even a milk frother, whisk the mixture vigorously for 2–4 minutes until it becomes thick and fluffy.

💡 Tip: For best results, use instant coffee—not ground coffee. The granules dissolve perfectly and whip up faster.

Step 2: Prepare Your Milk

Fill a glass with cold or hot milk, depending on your preference. For iced coffee, add a few cubes of ice.

Step 3: Spoon the Foam on Top

Once your cloud coffee mixture is thick and forms stiff peaks, spoon it gently over the milk.

Step 4: Stir (Optional)

Some people stir the foam into the milk for a consistent flavor, while others sip through the foam for contrast. Either way, it’s delicious!

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe for making cloud coffee at home works because the sugar stabilizes the foam, while the instant coffee provides the emulsifying base. The result is a silky, café-style drink without a fancy espresso machine.

Variations You Can Try

Vegan Cloud Coffee: Use oat milk, almond milk, or coconut milk for a plant-based version.

Sugar-Free Option: Use monk fruit or stevia, though results may be less stable.

Flavor Twist: Add vanilla extract, cinnamon, or cocoa powder to the whipped mixture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make Cloud Coffee in Advance?

Yes, the whipped topping can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Whisk briefly before using to revive the texture.

What If I Don’t Have a Whisk?

You can use a fork, but it will take longer—about 8–10 minutes. A milk frother or electric mixer works fastest.

Nutritional Benefits (In Moderation)

While not a health drink per se, this recipe lets you:

• Control sugar content
• Choose low-fat or plant-based milk
• Avoid artificial creamers

For a more functional version, try adding collagen or adaptogenic powders to the milk base.

Enjoying A Recipe for Making Cloud Coffee at Home

Now that you know a recipe for making cloud coffee at home, you can skip the café and enjoy this creamy, barista-style treat in your own kitchen. It’s a fun, affordable way to elevate your coffee routine—and impress guests with zero effort.

Whether you like it hot or iced, sweet or sugar-free, this viral drink trend is here to stay. Give it a try and whip up your own cloud of coffee bliss today.