I have always been a huge fan of coffee, and during this quarantine period, I discovered a new coffee trend called Dalgona coffee. It took the internet by storm and seemed to be the perfect way to enjoy a delicious cup of coffee with a twist. The best part? It can be made easily at home with just a few simple ingredients. However, I found that the consistency of the Dalgona coffee was not always as thick as I desired. So, I decided to experiment and find ways to make it thicker. In this article, I will share with you my quick and easy guide on how to make Dalgona coffee thicker.
Understanding Dalgona Coffee
Before we delve into the methods of making Dalgona coffee thicker, let’s first understand what it actually is. Dalgona coffee is a whipped coffee drink that originated in South Korea. It gets its name from a traditional Korean honeycomb toffee called Dalgona, which shares a similar appearance with the whipped coffee on top of the milk. The basic ingredients for Dalgona coffee are instant coffee, sugar, hot water, and milk. These ingredients are whipped together vigorously until they form a thick, frothy, and creamy texture.
Why Would You Want a Thicker Dalgona Coffee?
Some people prefer a thicker consistency for their Dalgona coffee due to personal taste preferences or for aesthetic reasons. A thicker coffee adds a delightful richness to the overall experience, and it also allows you to create beautiful latte art with ease. If you find that your Dalgona coffee is not as thick as you would like it to be, worry not! Here are some simple techniques to make it thicker.
Use an Electric Hand Mixer
One effective way to achieve a thicker Dalgona coffee is by using an electric hand mixer. While it is possible to whip the coffee mixture vigorously by hand, an electric hand mixer can make the process much easier and quicker. Simply add the instant coffee, sugar, and hot water to a mixing bowl and use the electric hand mixer to whip the mixture together. You will notice that the coffee begins to transform into a thick and fluffy consistency. Continue whisking until you achieve the desired thickness.
Add Cream of Tartar
Another fantastic ingredient that can help thicken your Dalgona coffee is cream of tartar. Cream of tartar is a byproduct of winemaking and is often used in baking and cooking. To use cream of tartar, you will need to add a small amount (approximately 1/8 teaspoon) to the mixture of instant coffee, sugar, and hot water. Whip the mixture as usual, and you will notice that the cream of tartar helps to stabilize the foam and create a thicker texture.
Increase the Ratio of Instant Coffee and Sugar
If you find that your Dalgona coffee is not as thick as you would like, you might consider adjusting the ratio of instant coffee and sugar. The original recipe calls for equal parts of instant coffee and sugar, typically two tablespoons of each. By increasing the amount of instant coffee and sugar, you can create a thicker and more concentrated coffee mixture. Experiment with different ratios until you achieve your desired consistency.
Add Cornstarch or Cocoa Powder
Cornstarch and cocoa powder are excellent thickening agents that can be added to your Dalgona coffee mix. To achieve a thicker consistency, you can mix a small amount of cornstarch (approximately 1/8 teaspoon) or cocoa powder into the instant coffee and sugar mixture. The cornstarch or cocoa powder not only helps to thicken the coffee but also adds a subtle flavor to enhance your Dalgona coffee experience.
Chill the Coffee Mixture
If you are short on time but still crave a thicker Dalgona coffee, chilling the coffee mixture can help. After whipping the instant coffee, sugar, and hot water together, place the mixture in the refrigerator for a few minutes to cool it down. As the mixture chills, it will naturally thicken due to the cold temperature. Once cooled, remove the mixture from the refrigerator and serve it on top of your milk.
Use Less Milk
If you prefer a thicker Dalgona coffee, you may consider using less milk in your cup. By reducing the amount of milk, you create a higher coffee-to-milk ratio, resulting in a thicker consistency. However, keep in mind that reducing the amount of milk will also make your Dalgona coffee taste stronger. Adjust the amount of milk according to your preference, balancing the thickness and flavor.
Conclusion
Dalgona coffee is a delightful and easy-to-make beverage that has gained immense popularity in recent times. Whether you prefer a thick or a light consistency, there are various methods to achieve your desired texture. From using an electric hand mixer to adding ingredients like cream of tartar or cornstarch, these techniques can help you create a thicker Dalgona coffee. Experiment with different methods and ratios to find the perfect balance that suits your taste buds. Remember, the most important thing is to enjoy the process and savor every sip of your homemade Dalgona coffee.