Vietnamese Egg Coffee (Cà Phê Trứng) is a drink like no other. With its rich, velvety egg foam sitting on top of bold, concentrated coffee, it’s an indulgent yet surprisingly simple treat. This iconic drink was first created in Hanoi in the 1940s, when milk was scarce, leading Vietnamese baristas to whisk egg yolks into coffee instead. The result? A creamy, custard-like delight that balances the strength of coffee with a sweet, frothy texture.
Making Vietnamese Egg Coffee at home doesn’t require special equipment—just strong coffee, a fresh egg yolk, and a little patience to whisk everything to perfection. Let’s dive into the process.
What Does Vietnamese Egg Coffee Taste Like?
Think of it as tiramisu in a cup. The egg mixture, when whipped with condensed milk, takes on a silky, almost meringue-like texture with notes of vanilla and caramel. Paired with strong, full-bodied coffee, it creates a rich, sweet, and slightly bitter balance, much like espresso topped with a decadent dessert foam.
What Coffee Works Best for Vietnamese Egg Coffee?
Since Vietnamese Egg Coffee is made with a strong coffee base, the best beans for this method are:
- Medium to Dark Roasts: Bold, full-bodied coffees work well because they hold up against the rich egg mixture.
- Nutty, Chocolatey Profiles: Coffees with caramel, nut, and chocolate notes create a smooth and balanced contrast.
- Low to Medium Acidity: Bright coffees with too much citrus may clash with the sweetness of the egg foam.
A great option would be a Brazilian or Latin American coffee with a smooth, nutty, and slightly caramelised flavour profile, such as Rainforest Sunrise. However, if you prefer a more complex twist, a Kenyan medium-dark roast with chocolate and citrus notes can create an interesting contrast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 egg yolks (fresh and organic for the best flavour)
- 2 tbsp sweetened condensed milk
- 120ml (4 oz) strong brewed coffee (Moka pot, espresso, or strong French press)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of salt (enhances sweetness)
How to Make Vietnamese Egg Coffee – Step by Step
1. Brew Your Coffee
You’ll need a strong coffee base for this recipe. Traditional Vietnamese coffee is made using a phin filter, but you can also use a:
- Moka pot (for a strong, espresso-like brew)
- Espresso machine (single or double shot)
- French press (brewed strong)
Pour the brewed coffee into a small, heatproof glass or cup, leaving some space for the egg foam.
2. Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a bowl, combine the egg yolks, condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Using a hand whisk, milk frother, or electric mixer, beat the mixture until thick, pale, and creamy (this takes about 3-5 minutes). The texture should be similar to soft whipped cream or meringue.
3. Layer the Egg Foam Over the Coffee
Carefully spoon or pour the whipped egg mixture over your hot coffee. It should float on top, creating a layered effect with a golden foam crown.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Vietnamese Egg Coffee is best enjoyed immediately, while the coffee is hot and the foam is silky smooth. Some people like to stir it together for a rich, creamy texture, while others prefer to sip through the egg layer first.
Tips for the Perfect Vietnamese Egg Coffee
✔ Use fresh eggs – The fresher the eggs, the better the flavour and texture.
✔ Whisk thoroughly – The foam should be thick and airy, not runny.
✔ Experiment with ratios – If you prefer a stronger coffee taste, reduce the egg mixture slightly.
✔ Try it iced – Pour the finished drink over ice for a refreshing summer version.
A Coffee Experience Like No Other
Vietnamese Egg Coffee is a rich, dessert-like treat that’s unlike any other coffee drink. It’s a perfect balance of bold coffee, creamy sweetness, and indulgent foam, making it a must-try for anyone looking to explore new and exciting coffee experiences at home.
Whether you use a Vietnamese phin filter, a Moka pot, or an espresso machine, the result is a luxurious, café-quality coffee that feels like a special treat. So, whip up a cup, take a sip, and enjoy this iconic Vietnamese classic in the comfort of your own home.
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