If you love Vietnamese iced coffee but cannot have dairy, you might wonder whether it is possible to recreate the same creamy, sweet flavor in a vegan version. The good news is that it is. Making vegan Vietnamese iced coffee is simple once you know which plant-based ingredients can mimic the richness of condensed milk.
The goal is to keep the strong coffee base and the caramel-like sweetness while swapping out dairy for vegan alternatives. In this guide, you will learn what makes Vietnamese iced coffee unique, how to replace condensed milk, and which vegan substitutes work best to preserve its signature taste.
Key Takeaways
- You can make vegan Vietnamese iced coffee by replacing condensed milk with a dairy-free alternative that is thick, sweet, and creamy.
- Coconut condensed milk gives the closest match to traditional flavor.
- Plant milk alone is not enough unless it is paired with a sweetener to mimic the richness of condensed milk.
What Makes Vietnamese Iced Coffee Unique?
Traditional Vietnamese iced coffee is made with strong dark-roasted coffee and sweetened condensed milk. The condensed milk is essential because it gives the drink:
- A thick, creamy texture
- Caramel-like sweetness
- Enough richness to balance strong Robusta coffee
To make a vegan version, you need a substitute that copies this thickness, sweetness, and creaminess. Regular plant milk doesn’t work here. You should choose the right vegan condensed milk or pairing plant milk with the right sweetener.
What Do You Replace Condensed Milk With?
To make vegan Vietnamese iced coffee, you can use dairy-free condensed milk or create your own thick, sweet base using plant milk and sugar. The closer the substitute is to traditional condensed milk, the more authentic your drink will taste.
Top Vegan Condensed Milk Options
These substitutes are the best for matching both flavor and texture.
Coconut Condensed Milk
This is the closest vegan match to dairy condensed milk.
- Thick and rich
- Naturally sweet
- Adds a light coconut note that works well with strong coffee
Oat Condensed Milk
Ideal for those who want a mild flavor.
- Very creamy
- Neutral taste
- Smooth texture that blends well with coffee
Almond or Cashew Condensed Milk
Nut-based condensed milks add depth and nuttiness.
- Slightly lighter texture
- Subtle nut flavor
- Great for those who prefer less coconut influence
Sweetened Coconut Cream
Not exactly condensed milk, but a great alternative when you want a thick and luxurious drink.
- Extra rich
- High in creaminess
- Ideal for dessert-style versions
Lower-Sugar Vegan Options
If you want a lighter version, you can build your own sweet base.
Plant Milk + Sweetener
Use a thick plant milk such as oat, cashew, or coconut milk. Add:
- Maple syrup
- Coconut sugar syrup
- Date syrup
- Simple syrup
This combination creates a lighter drink that still feels satisfying, although it will not be as rich as a condensed milk version.
How to Make Vegan Vietnamese Iced Coffee
You can make vegan Vietnamese iced coffee the same way you make the traditional version. The only difference is the type of milk you use. Instead of dairy-based condensed milk, simply choose one of the vegan substitutes listed above.
If you need a full step-by-step guide, you can follow the standard method in our main recipe for how to make Vietnamese iced coffee. Every step stays the same. You mix condensed milk at the bottom, brew strong coffee, combine the two while the coffee is hot, and pour everything over ice. The process does not change.
FAQ
Does vegan Vietnamese iced coffee taste like the original?
It can come very close. Coconut or oat condensed milk creates a sweetness that is similar to traditional condensed milk. The flavor will not be identical, but the overall experience is very close, especially if you use a strong coffee base.
What is the best vegan condensed milk?
Coconut condensed milk is the closest match in thickness and sweetness, which makes it the best option for Vietnamese-style iced coffee.
Can you make vegan Vietnamese iced coffee with instant coffee?
Yes. Instant coffee works well if you want a fast and simple version. The flavor will be lighter than a phin brew. You can find a full guide in our post on how to make Vietnamese iced coffee with instant coffee.
Can you make Vietnamese-style iced coffee with espresso?
Yes. Espresso creates a bold, concentrated base that gets much closer to traditional Vietnamese coffee than instant coffee. The flavor will still differ from a phin brew, but it works very well with vegan condensed milk. For a full walkthrough, see our guide on how to make Vietnamese iced coffee with espresso.