Vietnamese egg coffee

Vietnamese Egg Coffee, or 'Cà Phê Trứng,' combines rich espresso with a frothy egg yolk and sweetened condensed milk mixture, resulting in a smooth and creamy drink. This unique coffee beverage originates from Hanoi and is a beloved part of Vietnamese café culture.

15 Jan 2026
Cook time 0 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

4 yolks
1/3 cup condensed milk
2 cups espresso coffee

Vietnamese Egg Coffee, also known as 'Cà Phê Trứng,' is a unique and delightful coffee experience originating from Hanoi. This innovative coffee combines creamy, frothy egg yolks with sweetened condensed milk, creating a luxuriously smooth texture that perfectly complements the robust flavor of espresso. Originally invented in the 1940s as a way to overcome milk shortages, this drink has since become a beloved staple in Vietnamese coffee culture.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the 4 egg yolks and the 1/3 cup of sweetened condensed milk.
- Use an electric hand mixer or a whisk to beat the mixture vigorously. Continue whipping until the egg yolks blend with the condensed milk to form a thick, creamy, and pale yellow mixture. This process may take about 5-7 minutes with an electric mixer, or longer if whisking by hand.

2. Brew the Espresso:
- While you're preparing the egg mixture, brew 2 cups of strong espresso coffee. You can use an espresso machine, a moka pot, or any other method that yields a concentrated, robust coffee. Ensure the coffee is hot and fresh.

3. Assemble the Coffee:
- Divide the freshly brewed coffee into two coffee mugs or glasses, filling each cup about three-quarters full.
- Carefully spoon the whipped egg mixture over the top of each cup of coffee. Aim for a thick layer of the creamy egg blend to float on top of the coffee.

4. Serve:
- Serve the Vietnamese egg coffee immediately while the coffee is hot and the egg mixture is still light and frothy.
- You can enjoy it as is, or stir gently to mix the layers before sipping.

5. Optional Garnish:
- For an extra touch, you can sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or cocoa powder on top of the egg mixture. Additionally, you can serve it with a small spoon for stirring and savoring the layers.

Vietnamese Egg Coffee is more than just a drink—it's an experience that combines the robust flavors of espresso with the richness of egg yolks and condensed milk. This decadent coffee offers a unique contrast of textures and temperatures, creating a memorable treat that can elevate any coffee occasion. Whether you're seeking a new way to enjoy your daily caffeine fix or looking to impress guests with an exotic beverage, Vietnamese Egg Coffee is a delightful choice.

Vietnamese egg coffee FAQ:

How long should I whip the egg yolk mixture?

Whip the egg yolks and condensed milk for about 5-7 minutes using an electric mixer until you achieve a thick, creamy texture. If whisking by hand, it may take longer to reach the desired consistency.

Can I use instant coffee instead of espresso for this recipe?

While espresso is recommended for its strong flavor, you can substitute instant coffee. Use a concentrated amount of instant coffee to mimic the bold taste, but the final result may differ in richness.

How should I store leftover Vietnamese egg coffee?

Vietnamese egg coffee is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, it can be refrigerated for up to a day. However, the egg mixture may lose its airy texture when stored.

What can I substitute for egg yolks in this recipe?

For a vegan alternative, consider using aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) whipped to a frothy consistency. The flavor will differ, and it may not have the same richness as egg yolks.

What type of espresso or coffee works best for this drink?

Strong, freshly brewed espresso is ideal for Vietnamese egg coffee. A robust coffee, such as a dark roast, will complement the sweetness of the egg mixture beautifully.

Tips:

- Use fresh eggs: For the best results, ensure that your eggs are fresh, as this will improve both the taste and texture of the coffee.

- Temperature is key: Serve the coffee immediately after preparation to enjoy the contrasts between the hot espresso and the fluffy, cool egg mixture.

- Mix well but not too much: Beat the egg yolks and condensed milk until they're frothy but be careful not to overmix them, as this could affect the texture.

- Experiment with coffee: While traditional recipes call for espresso, you can experiment with different types of strong coffee to find your perfect blend.

- Adjust sweetness: The standard recipe uses sweetened condensed milk for its richness and sweetness, but feel free to adjust the amount to match your taste preferences.

Nutrition per serving

1 Servings
Calories 510kcal
Protein 18g
Carbohydrates 50g
Fiber 0.00g
Sugar 40g
Fat 27g

Vietnamese egg coffee