If you've been on social media lately, chances are you've come across a whipped, frothy coffee sitting pretty in a glass—sometimes over milk, sometimes coconut water. That’s cloud coffee, also known as Dalgona coffee. It went viral a few years ago during lockdowns, and people haven’t stopped experimenting with it since.
But now that the trend has had time to settle, many are asking: Is cloud coffee really good for you? Or is it just another eye-catching drink that looks better than it feels?
Let’s take a closer look at what’s in this frothy favorite, how to make it, the different versions floating around, and whether it belongs in your daily cup of joe.
What Is Cloud Coffee?
Cloud coffee is simply whipped instant coffee, sugar, and hot water, served over a base like milk or coconut water. The key is whipping the instant coffee mixture until it forms stiff, fluffy peaks—hence the name “cloud.”
It originated in South Korea and exploded worldwide thanks to TikTok and Instagram. While it’s often made with dairy or plant-based milk, people have also started experimenting with creative versions—some mixing it with cold brews, protein shakes, or even coconut water for a lighter twist.
How to Make It: Simple Steps
Making cloud coffee is easier than it looks. All you need are:
- 2 tablespoons of instant coffee
- 2 tablespoons of sugar (or a sweetener of your choice)
- 2 tablespoons of hot water
- Milk, coconut water, or any base of your choice
Step-by-step guide:
- Add the instant coffee, sugar, and hot water to a bowl.
- Use a whisk, hand mixer, or milk frother to whip the mix until it forms thick, fluffy peaks.
- Fill a glass with your choice of cold or warm milk, coconut water, or other base.
- Spoon the whipped coffee on top.
- Stir before sipping (or enjoy it as a layered treat).
You can also skip sugar if you're going for a no-sugar version, but it helps with the texture and volume.
What’s Actually In It?
The original version includes instant coffee, sugar, and water—pretty basic. But depending on the base you choose, the final cup can change significantly in terms of flavor and nutrition.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Instant Coffee – Contains caffeine and small amounts of antioxidants. It's more concentrated than regular brewed coffee, but often has a slightly bitter aftertaste.
- Sugar – Adds flavor and helps achieve the foamy texture. However, it also increases calorie intake if used in large amounts.
- Base (Milk or Coconut Water) – This is where you can personalize your cup. Dairy milk offers protein and calcium. Plant milks (like almond or oat) are lighter. Coconut water gives a tropical, refreshing twist and is lower in calories.
Versions of the Drink: What’s Trending?
Cloud coffee isn’t limited to the classic recipe anymore. Some popular variations include:
- Protein Cloud Coffee – Adding a scoop of protein powder to the base makes it a pre- or post-workout favorite.
- Coconut Water Cloud Coffee – Replaces milk with coconut water for a hydrating version. It’s lighter, has fewer calories, and pairs surprisingly well with coffee’s bold flavor.
- Iced Mocha Cloud – Blend cocoa powder into the whipped layer or base for a chocolatey taste.
- No-Sugar Cloud Coffee – Made with sweeteners like stevia or erythritol for those watching their sugar intake.
These creative twists allow you to tailor your drink based on your lifestyle and taste preference.
So, Is Cloud Coffee Really Good for You?
Here’s the honest answer: it depends on how and how often you drink it.
Let’s break it down.
Caffeine Content
Since cloud coffee is made with instant coffee, it usually has more caffeine per spoon compared to regular brewed coffee. One serving of instant coffee contains around 60–90 mg of caffeine. This can help with mental alertness and energy for many people. However, if you're sensitive to caffeine or already drinking multiple cups a day, it might lead to restlessness or trouble sleeping.
Sugar Intake
The traditional recipe uses equal parts sugar, which can be a concern if consumed daily. High sugar intake is linked to energy crashes and potential long-term health issues. If you’re mindful of sugar, consider reducing it or using an alternative sweetener.
Base Choice
Using coconut water as a base can offer hydration and electrolytes, especially on warm days or post-workout. Plant-based milks are a good option for those avoiding dairy, while regular milk adds more creaminess and nutrients like calcium and vitamin D.
Is It Just a Trend?
Cloud coffee definitely started as a social media trend, but it continues to be popular because it's quick, customizable, and visually satisfying. As long as you're mindful of what goes into it, it can be part of your daily or occasional treat.
Should You Drink It Every Day?
Having cloud coffee once in a while is generally fine for most people. If you love the taste and enjoy the process of whipping it up, there’s no harm in adding it to your morning ritual. Just be cautious with:
- Sugar levels
- Overall caffeine intake
- Portion sizes
Think of it as a fun, stylish way to enjoy your cup of joe. It’s not a miracle drink, but it can be a part of your coffee routine without any major concerns—especially if you adjust the recipe to match your needs.
Final Thoughts
Cloud coffee is more than just a pretty face. While it may have started as a social media craze, it still has a place in many people’s kitchens for a reason. It’s quick, easy, and can be tailored to fit different tastes—from light and tropical coconut water versions to richer protein-packed options.
So, is cloud coffee really good for you? It can be—when enjoyed thoughtfully and in moderation. If you’re looking for a creative twist on your daily cup, this frothy favorite might just be worth the hype.
