Vietnamese coffee is a bold, intensely flavorful coffee experience that perfectly balances strong, dark-roasted coffee with creamy sweetness. Known for its slow drip brewing method and unique use of sweetened condensed milk, this coffee is both robust and indulgent.
Vietnam is one of the world’s largest coffee producers, and its coffee culture is deeply rooted in tradition, patience, and craftsmanship. Whether enjoyed hot or iced, Vietnamese coffee is a rich, slow-sipped delight that highlights the country’s love for deep, roasted flavors.
What Makes Vietnamese Coffee Unique?
🔹 Strong, Dark Roast Flavor – Vietnamese coffee is typically made using dark-roasted robusta beans, giving it a bolder, more caffeinated kick than most coffees.
🔹 Slow Drip Brewing for Maximum Flavor – Brewed using a phin filter (a small metal drip brewer), Vietnamese coffee develops a strong, intense flavor with a slow, steady extraction process.
🔹 Sweetened Condensed Milk Instead of Regular Milk or Sugar – Instead of adding sugar, Vietnamese coffee is often mixed with thick, sweetened condensed milk, which balances the bold coffee with creamy sweetness.
How to Make Traditional Vietnamese Coffee
☕ Ingredients
- 2 tbsp (10g) finely ground dark roast coffee
- 6 oz (180ml) hot, filtered water
- 2 tbsp (30ml) sweetened condensed milk
- (Optional: Ice for iced coffee variation)
🌡 Temperature Guide
- Brew water: 195–205°F (90–96°C)
Step-by-Step Brewing Guide
1️⃣ Prepare the Phin Filter
- Place the phin (Vietnamese coffee filter) over a heatproof glass or cup.
- Add 2 tbsp (10g) of finely ground dark roast coffee into the filter.
2️⃣ Tamp the Coffee Gently
- Use the built-in press or a spoon to gently compress the coffee grounds.
- This ensures a slow, steady drip for maximum flavor extraction.
3️⃣ Pour Hot Water & Let It Brew
- Pour 6 oz (180ml) of hot water over the coffee grounds.
- Cover with the lid and allow the coffee to drip slowly (about 4–5 minutes).
4️⃣ Breathe It In
- ☕ Breathe it in. The rich aroma of slowly brewed Vietnamese coffee is an invitation to awaken—not just the body, but the soul. That’s why we encourage you to take that extra second or two to pause and enjoy your coffee before drinking by smelling it and thinking, “Taste and see that the Lord is good.”
5️⃣ Stir in the Sweetened Condensed Milk
- Add 2 tbsp (30ml) of sweetened condensed milk to the brewed coffee.
- Stir well for a creamy, rich consistency.
6️⃣ Serve Hot or Iced
- For hot Vietnamese coffee: Drink immediately and enjoy the rich, caramelized flavors.
- For iced Vietnamese coffee (Cà Phê Sữa Đá): Pour the coffee over a glass full of ice, stir, and enjoy!
Vietnamese Coffee vs. Other Coffee Drinks
✔ Vietnamese Coffee vs. Espresso: Vietnamese coffee is brewed with a phin filter, not an espresso machine, resulting in a slower, bolder extraction.
✔ Vietnamese Coffee vs. Iced Coffee: Traditional iced coffee is made from brewed coffee served over ice, while Vietnamese iced coffee uses robust, slow-dripped coffee and condensed milk for a smoother, sweeter taste.
✔ Vietnamese Coffee vs. Cold Brew: Cold brew is steeped for hours in cold water, while Vietnamese coffee is brewed hot and served immediately.
Why Choose Vietnamese Coffee?
- For a Bold & Sweet Coffee Experience – The combination of dark-roasted coffee and sweetened condensed milk creates a smooth, indulgent contrast.
- A True Taste of Vietnamese Coffee Culture – This is a coffee drink that embodies patience, tradition, and craftsmanship.
- Perfect for Iced Coffee Lovers – The strong coffee and sweet creaminess make it one of the most refreshing iced coffee options available.
Want to explore more coffees? Check out the entire list of milk-based drinks here!
