Vietnamese Iced Latte: The Ultimate Guide to Making It at Home

Vietnamese Iced Latte, or Cà Phê S?a ?á, is more than just a coffee drink; it’s an experience, a cultural icon, and a delightful escape in a glass. Have you ever craved a coffee that’s both intensely bold and luxuriously sweet, a drink that awakens your senses and leaves you utterly satisfied? Then, prepare to be captivated by this incredibly simple yet profoundly flavorful beverage.

Originating from Vietnam’s rich coffee culture, this drink reflects the country’s history and resourcefulness. When fresh milk was scarce, sweetened condensed milk became the star, lending its creamy sweetness to the robust dark roast coffee. This ingenious combination has since become a beloved staple, enjoyed on bustling street corners and in cozy cafes alike.

What makes the Vietnamese Iced Latte so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of strong, bitter coffee and the rich, almost caramel-like sweetness of condensed milk. The slow drip of the phin filter adds to the anticipation, creating a ritual that’s as enjoyable as the drink itself. The result is a coffee that’s not only delicious but also incredibly refreshing, especially on a hot day. Whether you’re a coffee aficionado or simply seeking a unique and satisfying treat, this recipe will transport you to the vibrant streets of Vietnam with every sip. Get ready to experience coffee like never before!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Vietnamese Coffee:
• 1/4 cup Vietnamese coffee grounds (preferably a dark roast like Trung Nguyen or Cafe Du Monde)
• 6 ounces boiling water
• Phin filter (Vietnamese coffee filter)
• For the Latte:
• 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup ice cubes
• 1/4 cup milk (whole milk, oat milk, almond milk, or your preferred milk)
• Optional Garnishes:
• Cocoa powder
• Whipped cream
• Chocolate shavings

Brewing the Vietnamese Coffee:

1. Prepare the Phin Filter: First, make sure your Phin filter is clean and dry. Unscrew the filter plate (the part with the holes) and set it aside. Place the Phin filter on top of your coffee cup or glass.
2. Add the Coffee Grounds: Spoon the Vietnamese coffee grounds into the Phin filter. Gently shake the filter to evenly distribute the grounds.
3. Tamp the Grounds: This is a crucial step! Use the filter plate to gently tamp down the coffee grounds. You want them to be compressed enough to slow down the water flow, but not so tightly that the water can’t pass through. A light, even pressure is key.
4. Pre-Infuse the Coffee: Pour about 1 tablespoon (15ml) of boiling water over the tamped coffee grounds. This allows the grounds to “bloom,” releasing their flavors and aromas. Wait about 30 seconds for the water to be absorbed. You should see the coffee grounds swell slightly.
5. Brew the Coffee: Slowly pour the remaining boiling water (about 5 ounces) over the coffee grounds. Be careful not to pour too quickly, as this can cause the water to overflow.
6. Let it Brew: Now, be patient! The coffee will slowly drip through the filter. This process usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Don’t be tempted to press down on the filter plate during brewing, as this can result in a bitter taste.
7. Check the Brew: Once all the water has dripped through, you should have a concentrated, dark coffee extract in your cup. Remove the Phin filter.

Assembling the Vietnamese Iced Latte:

1. Add Sweetened Condensed Milk: While the coffee is still hot, add the sweetened condensed milk to the cup. The heat will help it dissolve evenly. Start with 1/4 cup, and adjust to your preference. I like mine pretty sweet, but you might prefer less! Stir well until the condensed milk is completely dissolved and the coffee is a uniform color.
2. Add Ice: Fill the glass with ice cubes. The amount of ice will depend on the size of your glass and how cold you want your latte. I usually use about 1/2 cup of ice.
3. Add Milk: Pour your milk of choice over the ice. I personally love using oat milk for a creamy, slightly nutty flavor, but whole milk works great too for a richer taste. Almond milk is a good option if you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative.
4. Stir and Enjoy: Give the latte a good stir to combine all the ingredients. This will help to evenly distribute the coffee, condensed milk, and milk.
5. Garnish (Optional): If you’re feeling fancy, you can garnish your Vietnamese iced latte with a sprinkle of cocoa powder, a dollop of whipped cream, or some chocolate shavings. These additions aren’t necessary, but they definitely add a touch of elegance and extra flavor.

Tips and Variations:

• Adjusting Sweetness: The amount of sweetened condensed milk is really a matter of personal preference. Start with 1/4 cup and adjust to taste. If you prefer a less sweet latte, you can use less condensed milk or even substitute it with a sugar-free alternative.
• Coffee Strength: The strength of your coffee will depend on the type of coffee grounds you use and the brewing time. If you prefer a stronger coffee, use a darker roast and make sure the coffee grounds are finely ground. You can also experiment with different brewing times to find what works best for you.
• Milk Alternatives: Feel free to experiment with different types of milk. Oat milk, almond milk, soy milk, and coconut milk are all great options. Each type of milk will add a slightly different flavor and texture to the latte.
• Iced Coffee Cubes: For an extra cold and flavorful latte, try using coffee ice cubes instead of regular ice cubes. Simply brew a batch of coffee, let it cool, and then pour it into ice cube trays. Freeze until solid.
• Spiced Vietnamese Latte: Add a pinch of cinnamon, cardamom, or star anise to the coffee grounds before brewing for a warm and aromatic twist.
• Vietnamese Egg Coffee (Cà Phê Tr?ng): For a richer and more decadent treat, try making Vietnamese egg coffee. This involves whisking an egg yolk with sweetened condensed milk until it forms a thick, creamy foam. The foam is then poured over the coffee.
• Cold Brew Version: If you prefer cold brew coffee, you can use cold brew concentrate instead of brewing the coffee with a Phin filter. Simply mix the cold brew concentrate with sweetened condensed milk and milk, and then add ice.
• Experiment with Toppings: Get creative with your toppings! Try adding a drizzle of chocolate syrup, a sprinkle of crushed nuts, or a few drops of vanilla extract.

Choosing the Right Coffee:

The type of coffee you use is crucial for achieving that authentic Vietnamese coffee flavor. Look for a dark roast coffee that is specifically labeled as “Vietnamese coffee.” These coffees are typically a blend of Robusta and Arabica beans, and they have a bold, slightly bitter flavor that pairs perfectly with sweetened condensed milk. Some popular brands include Trung Nguyen, Cafe Du Monde, and Vinacafe. If you can’t find Vietnamese coffee, you can use a dark roast Italian or French roast as a substitute.

Understanding the Phin Filter:

The Phin filter is a traditional Vietnamese coffee brewing device. It consists of a small metal cup with a perforated bottom, a filter plate, and a lid. The Phin filter allows you to brew a strong, concentrated coffee extract that is perfect for making Vietnamese iced latte. Using a Phin filter might seem intimidating at first, but it’s actually quite simple once you get the hang of it. The key is to tamp the coffee grounds properly and pour the water slowly.

Why Sweetened Condensed Milk?

Sweetened condensed milk is a key ingredient in Vietnamese iced latte. It adds sweetness, creaminess, and a unique flavor that is characteristic of this drink. Sweetened condensed milk is made by evaporating water from milk and then adding sugar. This results in a thick, sweet, and slightly caramelized milk product. While you can substitute it with other sweeteners, sweetened condensed milk is really what makes Vietnamese iced latte so special.

Troubleshooting:

• Coffee is brewing too slowly: If the coffee is brewing too slowly, it could be because the coffee grounds are tamped too tightly. Try using less pressure when tamping the grounds.
• Coffee is brewing too quickly: If the coffee is brewing too quickly, it could be because the coffee grounds are not tamped tightly enough. Try using more pressure when tamping the grounds.
• Coffee is bitter: If the coffee is bitter, it could be because the water is too hot or the coffee grounds are over-extracted. Try using slightly cooler water and reducing the brewing time.
• Latte is not sweet enough: If the latte is not sweet enough, add more sweetened condensed milk.
• Latte is too sweet: If the latte is too sweet, use less sweetened condensed milk.

Health Considerations:

Vietnamese iced latte is a delicious treat, but it’s important to be mindful of its sugar and caffeine content. Sweetened condensed milk is high in sugar, so it’s best to consume this drink in moderation. If you’re sensitive to caffeine, you can use decaffeinated coffee grounds. You can also adjust the amount of coffee you use to control the caffeine level.

Storage:

Vietnamese iced latte is best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have leftover coffee, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The coffee may lose some of its flavor and aroma over time, but it will still be safe to drink. It is not recommended to store the assembled latte, as the ice will melt and the drink will become diluted.

Conclusion:

And there you have it! This Vietnamese Iced Latte recipe is more than just a caffeine fix; it’s a mini-vacation in a glass. The rich, bold coffee perfectly complements the sweet, creamy condensed milk, creating a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. I truly believe this is a must-try for any coffee lover looking to elevate their daily routine.

Why is this recipe a must-try? Because it’s incredibly easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers a coffee shop-quality experience right in your own kitchen. Forget those expensive lattes from your local cafe; with just a few simple steps, you can create a drink that’s even better, tailored perfectly to your own preferences. Plus, the vibrant flavors are simply irresistible – the robust coffee, the decadent sweetness, and the refreshing chill make it the perfect pick-me-up any time of day. It’s a delightful treat that’s both comforting and invigorating.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Feel free to experiment with different variations to find your perfect cup. For a richer, more indulgent experience, try using full-fat condensed milk. If you’re watching your sugar intake, you can use a sugar-free condensed milk alternative, although the flavor profile will be slightly different. You can also adjust the coffee-to-condensed milk ratio to suit your personal taste. Some people prefer a stronger coffee flavor, while others enjoy a sweeter, creamier latte. Don’t be afraid to play around with the proportions until you find your sweet spot.

Looking for serving suggestions? This Vietnamese Iced Latte is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of snacks and desserts. Try it with a flaky croissant, a slice of rich chocolate cake, or even a plate of fresh fruit. For a truly authentic experience, serve it alongside some traditional Vietnamese banh mi or spring rolls. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even use it as a base for a coffee-flavored cocktail! Just add a splash of your favorite liqueur, such as Kahlua or Baileys, for a decadent and boozy treat.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom to the coffee grounds before brewing for a warm, aromatic twist.
• Make it vegan: Use a plant-based condensed milk alternative, such as coconut or almond condensed milk.
• Add a shot of flavor: Experiment with different flavored syrups, such as vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut.
• Get creative with toppings: Garnish your latte with a sprinkle of cocoa powder, a drizzle of chocolate syrup, or a dollop of whipped cream.
• Iced Coffee Cubes: Freeze leftover coffee into ice cubes to prevent watering down your Vietnamese Iced Latte.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and discover the magic of a perfectly crafted Vietnamese Iced Latte. It’s a simple pleasure that can bring a little bit of joy to your day. So, grab your phin filter (or your favorite coffee brewing method), gather your ingredients, and get ready to embark on a delicious adventure.

Once you’ve made your own Vietnamese Iced Latte, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you try any variations? What did you pair it with? Share your photos and comments in the comments section below. I can’t wait to see what you create! Happy brewing!