How to Make Authentic Vietnamese Iced Coffee (Cà Phê Sữa Đá)

If you’ve ever wondered how Vietnamese iced coffee is so smooth, sweet, and perfectly caffeinated, you’re not alone. This bold and creamy drink, Cà Phê Sữa Đá, has won fans all over the world. And the good news is that you don’t need a barista or a ticket to Saigon to enjoy it at home.

What makes it truly special isn’t just the condensed milk, it’s the beans. Vietnamese coffee is typically made with robusta beans, which contain nearly twice the caffeine and more antioxidants than arabica beans. That’s what gives the drink its strong, bold flavor and that rich kick you won’t find in your average iced coffee. Ready to learn how to make Vietnamese iced coffee the right way? Let’s brew!

What's Different About Vietnamese Coffee?

The main difference between American iced coffee and Vietnamese iced coffee (also called Cà Phê Sữa Đá) is how the coffee is brewed. Vietnamese coffee is brewed using a Phin filter. Coffee and hot water are added to the filter, causing coffee drops to drip through the filter into your glass. This way of brewing creates a stronger brew and taste, but the use of condensed milk helps to sweeten the coffee. You can brew whatever type of Vietnamese coffee you'd like, but typically, a darker roast is used.

How to Make Authentic Vietnamese Iced Coffee

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 5 minutes

Servings: 1

Ingredients

• • 2 tablespoons Vietnamese ground coffee (preferably dark roast or Robusta)
  • 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
  • 4 tablespoons hot water (just off the boil)
  • 1 cup ice cubes

Optional: Crushed ice for a smoother mouthfeel

Optional: Cinnamon, cardamom, or vanilla extract for custom flavor twists

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Phin Filter

Add 2 tablespoons of ground Vietnamese coffee to the base of your Phin filter. Shake gently to level the surface.

Step 2: Add Condensed Milk

Spoon 2 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk into the bottom of your glass. This will serve as the sweet, creamy base for your coffee.

Step 3: Add Water to Bloom the Coffee

Place the Phin filter on top of the glass. Pour 2 tablespoons of hot water into the filter and let it sit for 30 seconds to allow the coffee to “bloom.” This step enhances the flavor.

Step 4: Finish Brewing

After the bloom, add 2 more tablespoons of hot water to the filter. Place the press gently on top to compress the grounds. Allow the coffee to drip slowly. This should take about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Chill (Optional)

For a colder drink, you can place the glass in the fridge for 10 minutes after brewing. This step is optional but recommended for that crisp café-style finish.

Step 6: Froth and Pour

Use a milk frother to stir the coffee and condensed milk together until creamy and frothy. Frothing helps create that smooth, velvety mouthfeel that Vietnamese iced coffee is known for.

Step 7: Serve Over Ice

Fill a tall glass with ice cubes and slowly pour your coffee mixture over the top. Serve with a stainless steel straw and enjoy!

Tips & Twists to Try for Vietnamese Iced Coffee

• If you're watching your sugar intake, swap in a smaller amount of condensed milk and top off with a splash of your favorite oat milk or almond milk.
• Try using a half-caff blend or brewing with chicory coffee, which has a classic Vietnamese flavor with lower caffeine.
• Opt for sweetened condensed milk with added probiotics or use coconut condensed milk for a dairy-free twist.
• Add a dash of cinnamon, cardamom, or even a drop of vanilla extract to your condensed milk before brewing for a flavorful twist.
• You can also cold brew your Vietnamese coffee overnight and pour it over condensed milk and ice in the morning for zero heat, all flavor.

Make Your Own Vietnamese Iced Coffee Today!

Once you’ve had a sip of this frothy Vietnamese iced coffee, you’ll understand why it’s a staple in Vietnamese cafes and now in your kitchen, too. It’s bold, smooth, sweet, and deeply satisfying, especially when made with the right tools and fresh ingredients. Try experimenting with different roasts or milk combinations until you find your favorite version. Trust us, once you master this, there’s no going back to ordinary iced coffee!

Other Kitchen Tools You Need for This Recipe

Take your Vietnamese iced coffee recipe to the next level with these must-have tools from Zulay Kitchen:

• • Automatic Milk Frother: Perfect for silky smooth coffee drinks.
  • Electric Water Kettle: Helps in boiling and pouring hot water into the Phin brewing.
  • Measuring Spoon Set: Durable, stylish, and perfect for mixing condensed milk and coffee.

Take Your Recipe to the Next Level with Premium Ingredients

We also offer a curated selection of premium ingredients designed to elevate your at-home coffee experience. Explore our full ingredients collection in our shop. Whether you're perfecting your Vietnamese iced coffee or creating your own signature blend, you'll find everything you need to craft the perfect cup.

Shop More Ingredients! 

Frequently Asked Questions About Vietnamese Iced Coffee

What makes Vietnamese iced coffee different from regular iced coffee?

Vietnamese iced coffee stands out because of the brewing method and ingredients. It’s typically made with a Phin filter, a slow-drip device that produces a much stronger and more concentrated coffee. Instead of milk or sugar, it uses sweetened condensed milk, which adds both creaminess and sweetness. This combination results in a robust, dessert-like coffee that has more body and character than typical iced coffee.

Can I use a regular drip coffee maker instead of a Phin filter?

You can, but the flavor profile won’t be the same. The Phin filter slows down the extraction process, which produces a more intense and complex brew. If you use a drip coffee maker, try using less water and a darker roast to mimic the strength. However, for the most authentic Vietnamese iced coffee, we highly recommend investing in a Phin filter.

Is it necessary to froth the coffee mixture?

Technically, no, but frothing elevates the drink. Using a milk frother creates a rich, creamy texture that mimics the smoothness of coffeehouse-quality drinks. Frothing also helps to fully incorporate the condensed milk into the coffee, resulting in better flavor distribution and a more enjoyable mouthfeel.

Can I make this Vietnamese iced coffee dairy-free?

Absolutely. Swap the regular sweetened condensed milk with coconut-based condensed milk, or make your own vegan version using almond milk and sugar-boiled down. 

What kind of coffee should I use for Vietnamese iced coffee?

Traditional Vietnamese iced coffee is made with dark roast Robusta beans, which are stronger and more bitter than Arabica. You can find Vietnamese brands like Trung Nguyên or Cafe Du Monde in specialty markets or online. If you prefer something milder, a dark Arabica roast can work too, but it won’t have that bold Vietnamese character.

How much caffeine is in Vietnamese iced coffee?

Vietnamese iced coffee made with Robusta beans contains almost twice the caffeine of a standard Arabica brew. One serving can have up to 200 mg of caffeine, depending on how much coffee you use. 

Can I batch make Vietnamese iced coffee for a party?

Yes! You can brew multiple servings using a large Phin filter or even cold brew a big batch overnight. Mix the brewed coffee with condensed milk and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, froth each serving individually and pour over ice. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Here's a video of how to make Vietnamese Iced Coffee!

Let Us Know What You Think!

Know Someone Who Should Read This?