Vietnamese Iced Coffee Recipe

Vietnamese Iced Coffee (Cà Phê Sữa Đá) is a rich and indulgent drink that has become a favorite around the world. Made with strong coffee brewed using a traditional Vietnamese Phin filter and sweetened condensed milk, this coffee is creamy, flavorful, and perfect for a hot day. The unique brewing method creates a coffee that’s both bold and smooth, and when served over ice, it’s a refreshing, energizing treat. Whether you're a coffee enthusiast or just looking for something new to try, Vietnamese Iced Coffee is sure to impress.

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

What makes Vietnamese Iced Coffee so irresistible is its perfect balance of bitterness and sweetness. The strong, robust flavor of the coffee is complemented by the velvety smoothness of sweetened condensed milk, creating a coffee drink that’s both refreshing and satisfying. The brewing process, which involves slow dripping, extracts a deep, full-bodied flavor from the coffee grounds, making it richer than many other coffee methods. When poured over ice, it’s a cool, creamy, and delicious treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

What Is Vietnamese Iced Coffee?

Vietnamese Iced Coffee is made by brewing coarse-ground coffee using a Vietnamese Phin filter, which allows hot water to drip through the coffee grounds slowly. The brewed coffee is then combined with sweetened condensed milk, creating a sweet, creamy base. Served over ice, this coffee is a cool and flavorful way to enjoy a coffee break. The method of brewing with a Phin filter makes the coffee richer and more concentrated, while the condensed milk adds a luscious sweetness that’s perfect for sipping.

Cooking Tips

• Use the right coffee grind: For the best flavor, use a coarse ground coffee that’s suitable for espresso or French press. A finer grind will make the coffee drip too slowly, while a coarser grind may result in a weak brew.
• Patience is key: The brewing process takes time—about 5 minutes for the coffee to drip through the Phin filter. Don’t rush this process, as it helps extract the coffee’s full flavor.
• Adjust the sweetness: Sweetened condensed milk adds a rich sweetness, but if you prefer your coffee less sweet, feel free to adjust the amount of condensed milk or use a little less.
• Ice is essential: The ice is what makes this coffee refreshing and perfect for warm weather. Be sure to add enough ice to chill the drink quickly for the best experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Vietnamese Iced Coffee without a Phin filter?

While the Phin filter is the traditional way to brew Vietnamese coffee, you can also use a French press or drip coffee maker. Just make sure the coffee is brewed strong and concentrated to mimic the full flavor of the Phin method. The key is to make sure the coffee has a bold, rich flavor before adding the sweetened condensed milk.

Can I use regular milk instead of sweetened condensed milk?

Sweetened condensed milk is what gives Vietnamese Iced Coffee its rich, creamy texture and sweetness. If you want a lighter version, you can use regular milk or a plant-based milk substitute, but it won’t have the same depth of flavor and sweetness. You may also need to add extra sugar to compensate.

Can I make this iced coffee ahead of time?

Yes! You can brew the coffee and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, pour it over fresh ice and stir in the condensed milk for a quick, refreshing drink.

Can I make this drink hot instead of iced?

While Vietnamese Iced Coffee is traditionally served cold, you can enjoy it hot by simply skipping the ice and serving the coffee and condensed milk mixture in a warm mug.

Can I adjust the strength of the coffee?

Yes! If you prefer a stronger coffee flavor, you can adjust the coffee-to-water ratio when brewing. Use more coffee grounds for a bolder brew, or less for a milder taste.

How to Store

Store leftover brewed coffee in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh to get the perfect balance of flavors.

How to Freeze

You can freeze brewed coffee in an ice cube tray to use as coffee ice cubes. This will help prevent your drink from getting watered down when you add the ice.

Ingredients

For the Coffee:

• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 ½ tablespoons (22.5 ml) coarse ground coffee (suitable for espresso or French press)
• Hot water (almost to a boil)
• Ice

Equipment:

• Vietnamese Coffee Filter (Phin)

Step-by-Step Instructions