How to Make Vietnamese Iced Coffee

crazy by Editorial Staff | Updated on August 6th, 2023

Vietnamese Iced Coffee, also known as Cà phê đá or Cafe Sua Da, is a refreshing and flavorful coffee beverage that is widely popular in Vietnam and around the world. The combination of aromatic coffee, sweetened condensed milk, and ice creates a delicious treat that can be enjoyed all year round.


In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of making Vietnamese Iced Coffee from scratch. Whether you’re a coffee lover or just looking for a new way to enjoy your caffeine fix, this recipe is perfect for you.

Vietnamese iced coffee

So, grab your coffee beans and let’s get started!

What is Vietnamese Iced coffee?

Vietnamese iced coffee, also known as cà phê đá, is a popular coffee beverage in Vietnam that has gained popularity in many countries around the world. The drink is made by using a metal drip filter, known as a phin, to brew strong coffee. The brewed coffee is then mixed with sweetened condensed milk and served on a bed of ice, making it the perfect refreshing drink for hot weather.

Sweetened condensed milk in Vietnamese iced coffee sets it apart from other coffee drinks. The milk gives the coffee a sweet and creamy taste that balances the bitterness of the concentrated coffee. It’s worth noting that sweetened condensed milk also gives Vietnamese iced coffee a calorie-heavy reputation, but many people still enjoy this drink as an occasional treat.

Vietnamese iced coffee

The brewing method is one of the main factors that make Vietnamese iced coffee so unique. Unlike other coffee drinks that use traditional drip machines, Vietnamese iced coffee is brewed using a filter, giving it a distinctive flavor that can’t be replicated using other methods.

In Vietnam, cà phê đá is typically served in a small glass over ice with a spoon. The drink is not normally consumed with additional milk or cream, as the sweetness in the condensed milk is enough to create a balanced flavor.

Overall, Vietnamese iced coffee is a deliciously unique beverage that beautifully blends bitter coffee with sweet condensed milk, creating an unforgettable flavor. It’s a must-try for coffee lovers who are looking for something new and exciting to try.

A brief history

Coffee in Vietnam was first introduced in 1857 by a French Catholic priest and, in no time, became one of the country’s biggest exports. Today, Vietnam is the second-largest producer in the world after Brazil.

Back then, the availability of dairy was limited, so the local population started using sweetened condensed milk in dark roast coffee. Since then, this has become one of the ways coffee is served in the country. The trend continues even today.

Preparing Vietnamese iced coffee

You will need a few things to prepare your brew. Here is what you need:

Vietnamese Coffee Filter Press

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Steps:

  • Start by putting 2 tablespoons of ground coffee on the filter cup and slightly shake it so that the grounds are evenly distributed.
  • Insert the top of the Phin filter on the filter cup, and add 0.8 ounces of hot water to the grounds to let them bloom for 45 seconds.
  • Afterward, fill the Phin filter with boiling water up to the top, making sure the filter chamber is completely full.
  • Wait for the coffee to finish brewing. You will have to wait for 3-5 minutes. Note that the longer the brewing process, the stronger your brew will be. We recommend experimenting with different times until sure what brewing time gets you better coffee.
  • When the brewing is done, stir the coffee well.
  • Add 2 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk to an empty glass
  • Now pour your coffee into the glass with condensed milk and stir
  • Fill another glass with ice, then pour the condensed-coffee mixture over it
  • Your brew is now ready. Enjoy! 

The entire process takes roughly 10 minutes, including prep and cleanup times. So when craving coffee badly, you will enjoy your java in no time.

Vietnamese iced coffee

Wrap up

After following the easy-to-follow steps for making Vietnamese iced coffee, it’s finally time to sit back, relax, and enjoy your delicious creation. The combination of rich, bold coffee and sweetened condensed milk over ice makes for a perfect balance of flavors.

Remember to stir vigorously to mix the coffee and milk before taking your first sip. Enjoy your refreshing and energizing Vietnamese iced coffee anytime, anywhere. It’s a great pick-me-up during a hot summer day or a perfect end to a delicious meal. So indulge in this amazing coffee and savor every sip. Cheers!

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Editorial Staff

The editorial staff at Crazy Coffee Crave is a team of coffee enthusiasts & Baristas who enjoy the one thing we all think about as soon as we get up in the morning. Trusted by thousands of readers worldwide.