how to make Vietnamese Iced Coffee

I recently discovered Vietnamese iced coffee while ordering takeout at my local Pho restaurant. Ever since taking my first sip, I have been hooked!

To be honest, I didn’t even know what Vietnamese iced coffee was or why it tasted so different. This newfound coffee was bold and much creamier than what I was used to drinking.

After doing a little bit of research, I found out that Vietnamese iced coffee tastes so different because of the brewing method, as well as the manner in which it’s sweetened.

Vietnamese Coffee Beans

Before I talk about the brewing method for Vietnamese iced coffee, I wanted to talk about the star of the show…the coffee beans.

You don’t absolutely have to use Vietnamese coffee beans to make Vietnamese iced coffee, but you should if possible! Using Vietnamese coffee beans keeps this recipe traditional and authentic as possible.

I had a hard time finding Vietnamese coffee beans in my local area, so I ended up purchasing a bag from Nguyen Coffee Supply. This company, started by a Vietnamese woman, partners with farmers in Vietnam who source organic robusta and arabica coffee beans.

For this recipe, I used the Loyalty roast, which is a 50/50 blend of robusta and arabica coffee beans. It’s a pleasant and balanced roast that is not overpowering.

Fun fact, I learned that Vietnamese coffee beans are less acidic, which means your coffee won’t have a sour taste. To purchase a bag of Vietnamese Coffee beans, click here.

Tools you will need

• Phin: The Phin is a Vietnamese coffee filter with a unique extraction process. It’s made up of multiple pieces that assemble together to fit on top of your mug. The holes at the bottom of the Phin act as a pour over, whereas the metal piece that sits on top of your coffee grounds acts as a French press. I purchased my Phin on Mercari, but you can purchase one here.
• Coffee Grinder: I purchased the Krups coffee grinder from Amazon.
• Kettle: Any standard or electric kettle will do.

Ingredients for Vietnamese Iced coffee

• Vietnamese coffee beans
• Organic condensed milk
• Cinnamon
• Milk of choice **optional**
• Ice

how to make vietnamese iced coffee

• Bring water to a boil. This amount may vary depending on the size of your Phin.
• Once the water has finished boiling, set it aside and begin the extraction process
• Add condensed milk to a glass cup and place the assembled Phin on top of it
• Grind your fresh coffee beans and pace them inside your Phin
• Place the metal plate on top of your coffee grounds to act as a weight
• Pour a small amount of water over the metal plate in a circular motion and let the coffee grounds bloom
• Pour the remainder of the water and fill the Phin to the top
• Place the lid on top of the Phin and allow the coffee to drip over the condensed milk
• Once the extraction process is complete, remove the Phin from the glass cup and mix the coffee and condensed milk together.
• Pour the coffee mixture over ice and sprinkle with cinnamon
• Serve and enjoy!

Recipe card for Vietnamese iced coffee

Pin It For Later

I absolutely LOVE coffee. There are so many methods for making coffee and Vietnamese coffee is by far my favorite!

Vietnamese coffee not only tastes delicious, but it’s also relaxing to make. Everything in life is so fast paced, so it’s nice to take a moment to stop and patiently wait for something that is absolutely worth the wait.

If you’ve never tried Vietnamese coffee, you’re missing out! Give this recipe a try. I know you will love it.