Cà phê sữa đá – how to make Vietnamese iced coffee

Cà phê sữa đá is Vietnamese iced coffee, in which strong phin coffee combines with sweet condensed milk and ice. It is one of the most famous Vietnamese coffee drinks and easy to make at home.

What you need:

• 15–20 g Vietnamese-style coffee
• Phin filter
• Hot water
• 2–4 tbsp sweetened condensed milk, to taste
• Ice

Instructions

1. Add condensed milk to the bottom of the glass.
2. Place coffee in the phin and moisten it with a small amount of hot water.
3. Let the coffee bloom for about 20–30 seconds.
4. Add the remaining water and let the coffee drip into the glass.
5. Stir the coffee and condensed milk.
6. Fill the glass with ice and enjoy.

What coffee is suitable for cà phê sữa đá?

A strong Robusta- or Culi-based Vietnamese-style coffee works excellently, as the coffee's richness is maintained even with ice and sweet condensed milk. A balanced blend also works if you want a slightly softer result.

Tip: adjust sweetness to your liking

If you like strong coffee, use less condensed milk. If you want a softer, more dessert-like drink, add a little more. By changing the ratio of coffee and milk, you can easily find your favorite.

Create a Vietnamese coffee moment at home

Cà phê sữa đá is a good first recipe if Vietnamese coffee is new to you. You only need a phin, suitable coffee, condensed milk, and ice.

Start with phin coffee · See the phin brewing guide · Explore the world of Vietnamese coffee