Vietnamese Iced Coffee Recipe (Cà Phê Sữa Đá Done Right)

Vietnamese iced coffee only works when the coffee is brewed stronger than normal on purpose. This isn’t a “cup of coffee with milk” — it’s a concentrated brew designed to hold its flavor once condensed milk and ice enter the picture.

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Ingredients

2 tbsp sweetened condensed milk
18 g strong brewed coffee
110–120 g water
Ice

Instructions

Brew strong coffee - Traditionally, this is done with a phin filter, but you can replicate the strength using a French press or AeroPress. Brew stronger than your normal ratio — this drink depends on intensity. If you need a refresher, this guide on how to make strong coffee at home walks through strength without bitterness.
Add condensed milk - to the glassSpoon the condensed milk directly into the bottom of a heat-safe glass. Don’t stir yet.
Pour hot coffee over the milk - Add the freshly brewed coffee on top of the condensed milk, then stir until fully combined. The heat helps the milk dissolve evenly.
Add ice and serve - Fill the glass with ice and stir again. Serve immediately.

Notes

Brewing Method Options

Phin Filter (Traditional Method)
If you’re using a phin filter, this ratio is ideal. The slower extraction and finer grind help build body and intensity without harshness.

French Press or AeroPress (At-Home Alternative)
If you don’t have a phin, use the same ratio and grind finer than you normally would. Brew time should be slightly longer than standard to fully extract the coffee.

For additional guidance on concentrated brewing with common tools, this overview of methods to make espresso without a machine is a helpful reference.

Milk and Ice Ratio

Once brewed:

2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
All of the brewed coffee
A full glass of ice

Stir the hot coffee into the condensed milk first, then add ice. This order matters — it keeps the milk from clumping and helps preserve balance.

Vietnamese Iced Coffee Variation For Less Sugar - Coconut Milk Version

A popular variation replaces some or all of the condensed milk with coconut cream or sweetened coconut milk. The drink becomes richer and slightly tropical, while still maintaining the original structure.

If you experiment with this, keep the coffee strong. The moment the coffee weakens, the drink loses its identity.

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!