Dalgona Coffee: The Trend That Whipped the World into a Frothy Frenzy

In the midst of the pandemic in 2020, a global coffee trend emerged that whisked together boredom, creativity, and an intense love for coffee: Dalgona Coffee. This simple yet eye-catching beverage became an instant social media sensation, captivating millions of homebound coffee enthusiasts across TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. But what made this trend so addictive, and why did it strike such a chord worldwide? Let’s dive deep into the frothy world of Dalgona Coffee.

What Is Dalgona Coffee?

Dalgona Coffee is a whipped coffee drink made by combining equal parts of instant coffee, sugar, and hot water, then vigorously whisking (or blending) the mixture until it transforms into a thick, caramel-colored foam. The foam is then layered over cold or hot milk for a visually stunning two-tone drink.

The name “Dalgona” derives from a Korean street candy of the same color and texture, but the recipe itself likely traces back to Indian and Pakistani phenti hui coffee (or “beaten coffee”), where coffee and sugar are hand-whipped into a creamy froth before adding milk.

Why Did It Become So Popular?

1. A Pandemic Escape

As people stayed indoors during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, they sought creative outlets to fill their time. Dalgona Coffee was simple to make, required minimal ingredients, and offered a fun kitchen experiment—perfect for home baristas and aspiring chefs alike.

2. Social Media Fuel

The photogenic nature of Dalgona Coffee made it irresistible for social media platforms. Videos of people whipping the frothy layers or showing off their perfect blends flooded feeds, and the hashtag #DalgonaCoffee amassed millions of views. The trend’s virality turned it into a worldwide phenomenon.

3. Nostalgic Comfort

For many, the frothy, sweetened drink evoked childhood memories of similar regional coffees—whether it was phenti hui in South Asia or café frappé in Greece. The simplicity of Dalgona Coffee brought a sense of comfort in uncertain times.

4. A Sense of Achievement

Making the perfect Dalgona Coffee required some effort, especially if you hand-whisked it. The time spent whipping the foam became symbolic of perseverance—a relatable metaphor during a global crisis.

The Science Behind the Whip

Dalgona Coffee’s magic lies in its foam. Instant coffee contains dried coffee solids, which include proteins and oils that trap air when whipped with sugar and water. The sugar stabilizes the foam, allowing it to maintain its light, airy structure. For an added boost, blending with electric whisks (instead of hand-whipping) accelerates the emulsification process, leading to faster, fluffier results.

The Long-Lasting Impact

The Dalgona Coffee craze may have peaked during 2020, but its influence remains:

1. Revival of Instant Coffee

While instant coffee was once considered a convenience item, Dalgona Coffee revitalized its appeal. Brands reported a surge in sales during the trend’s peak, with younger generations embracing instant coffee for its simplicity and versatility.

2. Creative Spins

As the trend evolved, people added their own twists: swapping instant coffee for matcha or cocoa powder, incorporating plant-based milks, and even experimenting with alcohol-infused versions like Dalgona Espresso Martinis.

3. A Gateway to Specialty Coffee

Many people who fell in love with Dalgona Coffee were inspired to further explore coffee culture, diving into specialty brewing methods and learning about different coffee origins.

Beyond the Froth: Lessons from Dalgona Coffee

Dalgona Coffee taught us that the simplest pleasures can become extraordinary with a little creativity. It showed that coffee is not just a drink but also an experience—one that brings people together, even in isolation.

As we look back on the Dalgona Coffee craze, it’s a reminder of how something as small as a cup of whipped coffee can spark joy, creativity, and a sense of global community. Whether you’re a fan of the trend or prefer your coffee black, the Dalgona legacy lives on in the way it shaped how we see (and share) our favorite caffeinated rituals.

So, why not dust off that whisk and recreate the frothy magic in your own kitchen? It’s a flavorful way to relive a moment when the world came together, one whipped coffee at a time.