If you love the traditional version but want something creamier, richer, and slightly tropical, you should try Vietnamese coconut iced coffee. This is a blend of strong coffee with sweet coconut cream to create a refreshing drink that feels both indulgent and energizing. In this guide, you will learn exactly how to make it.
Key Takeaways
- Vietnamese coconut iced coffee is a tropical twist on the classic, made by replacing dairy condensed milk with coconut condensed milk.
- Coconut condensed milk is the only option that delivers the thick, sweet, creamy texture needed for authentic flavor.
- Coconut milk and coconut cream do not work the same because they are either too thin or not sweet enough.
- You can adjust sweetness and richness by adding more coconut condensed milk or enhancing flavor with salt, cacao, or toasted coconut.
What Is Vietnamese Coconut Iced Coffee?
This is a twist of the traditional Vietnamese iced coffee, where instead of using dairy condensed milk, you use coconut condensed milk. Coconut blends beautifully with Vietnamese coffee because:
- Strong dark-roasted or Robusta coffee balances coconut’s natural sweetness
- Coconut cream adds a thick, silky texture
- The flavor becomes slightly tropical while still tasting like Vietnamese coffee
- The drink stays rich even after adding ice
What Coconut Product Should You Use?
For Vietnamese coconut iced coffee, the only ingredient that truly works is coconut condensed milk. It has the thickness, sweetness, and creamy texture required to balance strong Vietnamese coffee.
Coconut milk and coconut cream do not produce the same result. Coconut milk is too thin and watery, and it makes the drink taste weak instead of bold and sweet. Coconut cream is thicker but not sweet enough, and it creates a heavy texture without the characteristic Vietnamese iced coffee sweetness.
How to Make Vietnamese Coconut Iced Coffee
Here is a simple, beginner-friendly method that works no matter which coffee brewing tool you use.
Ingredients
- Strong brewed coffee (phin brew ideally)
- 2 to 3 tablespoons coconut cream or coconut condensed milk
- Ice
Optional extras
- Pinch of salt
- Toasted coconut flakes
- Cacao powder
- Vanilla
Equipment
- Tall glass
- Spoon
- Coffee brewer of choice
Step-by-Step Instructions
Add coconut cream or coconut condensed milk to your glass.
Start with 2 to 3 tablespoons depending on how sweet and creamy you want the drink.
Brew a strong, concentrated coffee base.
Use a phin filter, espresso machine, cold brew concentrate, or instant coffee mixed with a small amount of hot water.
Pour the hot coffee over the coconut mixture.
The warmth helps the coconut cream melt and blend smoothly.
Stir until fully combined.
You should have a smooth, caramel-colored coconut coffee base.
Fill the glass with ice.
A full glass of ice chills the drink instantly and balances sweetness.
Adjust sweetness or add aromatics.
Add more coconut cream for richness or a pinch of salt to enhance flavor.
Optional toppings like toasted coconut or cacao add extra depth.
FAQ
Is Vietnamese coconut iced coffee vegan?
It can be if you use coconut condensed milk that is labeled dairy-free. Some coconut condensed milks still contain casein or added dairy, so check the ingredients. Here you can find a vegan Vietnamese iced coffee recipe.
What is the difference between coconut milk and coconut cream?
Coconut milk is thin and pourable, similar to regular milk. Coconut cream is much thicker and contains more fat. Neither one is sweet enough or rich enough to replace condensed milk in Vietnamese iced coffee. Only coconut condensed milk has the right sweetness and consistency.
How sweet should Vietnamese coconut coffee be?
It should be quite sweet, similar to traditional Vietnamese iced coffee. Start with 2 to 3 tablespoons of coconut condensed milk, then adjust to your taste. The sweetness is essential because it balances the strong, dark coffee base.
Does coconut replace condensed milk completely?
Coconut only replaces condensed milk when you use coconut condensed milk, which is thick and sugary. Coconut milk or coconut cream alone cannot replace condensed milk because they lack both the sweetness and caramel-like richness needed for this drink.
Is this drink high in calories?Yes, just like traditional Vietnamese iced coffee, the coconut version can be high in calories because coconut condensed milk is rich and sweet. If you want a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of condensed milk or blend in a splash of regular coconut milk for a slightly thinner drink.