If you love fun coffee drinks, this one is a must-try. It’s creamy, lightly sweet, and has that beautiful purple ube twist that makes it feel extra special. I’ve made this on busy mornings and lazy afternoons—it’s quick, easy, and always feels like a treat.
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe came into my routine when I had leftover ube extract and didn’t want it to go to waste. One quick experiment later, and I was hooked.
- It takes just minutes but feels like a café drink
- The color is stunning without any extra effort
- The flavor is creamy, slightly nutty, and comforting
- It’s a fun twist on classic dalgona coffee
- You only need a few simple ingredients
There’s something really satisfying about watching that foam come together—it never gets old.
Servings and Time
Servings: 1 drink
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
What You’ll Need
- 2 tbsp instant coffee
- 1/2 tbsp sugar
- 2 tbsp hot water
- 1/8 tsp ube extract
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup ice
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl or tall cup
- Hand frother or whisk
- Spoon
- Tall serving glass
Pro Tips
- Use hot water, not warm—this helps the coffee dissolve and whip properly
- A frother makes it super quick, but a whisk works if you’re patient
- Don’t overdo the ube extract—a little goes a long way
- Use whole milk for the creamiest texture
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap sugar with honey or brown sugar
- Use oat milk or almond milk for dairy-free
- Add more ube extract for stronger flavor and color
- Blend with ice for a frozen version
Make Ahead Tips
The foam is best fresh, but you can whip it a few hours ahead and store it in the fridge. Just give it a quick re-whip before using.
Ube Dalgona Coffee Recipe & Instructions
Step 1: Whip the Coffee Foam
Add 2 tbsp instant coffee, 1/2 tbsp sugar, and 2 tbsp hot water into a bowl. Whip until thick, fluffy, and light brown. This takes about 2–3 minutes with a frother.
Step 2: Prepare the Ube Milk Base
In a glass, add 1 cup ice, 1 cup milk, 1/8 tsp ube extract, and 1/4 tsp vanilla extract. Stir until the milk turns a light purple color.
Step 3: Add the Whipped Coffee
Spoon the whipped coffee foam on top of the purple milk. Let it sit on top in a thick layer.
Step 4: Mix and Enjoy
Stir everything together before drinking to combine the flavors.
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
The magic comes from instant coffee and sugar. When you whip them with hot water, they trap air and create foam. The sugar helps stabilize that foam so it stays fluffy longer.
Common Mistakes
- Using cold water (it won’t whip properly)
- Adding too much water (foam becomes runny)
- Not whipping long enough (it needs to get thick and airy)
- Using flavored instant coffee (can affect texture)
What to Serve With
- Buttered toast
- Sweet bread or pastries
- Pancakes or waffles
- Light snacks like cookies
Macros Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 180–220
- Protein: 6g
- Carbs: 20g
- Fat: 7g
- Sugar: 12g
FAQ
Can I use brewed coffee instead of instant?
No, it won’t whip. Instant coffee is key.
Can I make it less sweet?
Yes, reduce the sugar or skip it slightly.
What does ube taste like?
It’s mildly sweet, a little nutty, and slightly vanilla-like.
Can I make it hot?
Dalgona is best iced, but you can try it over warm milk.
Leftovers and Storage
This drink is best fresh. The foam will slowly melt, so enjoy it right after making.
Final Thoughts
This ube dalgona coffee is simple, fun, and just a little bit fancy without any extra work. It’s one of those recipes you’ll want to make again once you see how easy it is. Try it out, give it your own twist, and come back to share how it turned out—I’d love to hear what you think!
