Vietnamese Coconut Coffee (Cà Phê Dừa)

The weather is heating up. That means it’s time for a refreshing Vietnamese coconut coffee (Cà Phê Dừa or more specifically, Cà Phê Nước Cốt Dừa Đá Xay).

What is Ca Phe Dua?

Cà phê dừa is a popular Vietnamese iced coffee topped with a coconut slushy made by blending sweetened condensed milk, coconut milk or coconut cream, and ice until smooth.

The result? A sweet and refreshing drink that’s guaranteed to keep you awake for two days straight.

You can find this coffee drink in trendy coffee houses all over Vietnam and in Vietnamese specialty coffee and boba shops across the U.S., especially in California.

My Coconut Coffee Shortcut Version

In this recipe, we’re using a shortcut with Lee’s Coffee Concentrate, my absolute favorite Vietnamese coffee mix when I don’t feel like brewing my own.

If you can’t find the concentrate, no worries. Brew your favorite Vietnamese coffee then follow the rest of the steps for the coconut version.

What You Will Need

• Lee’s Coffee Concentrate: This bottled coffee concentrate is pre-brewed and sweetened, made with strong Vietnamese-style coffee. You can find it in the refrigerated or freezer section of many Asian grocery stores. You can also get a large supply at Costco, which is what I normally do and stash them in my freezer for all my coffee emergencies.
• Coconut milk or coconut cream: I originally used canned coconut milk, but found coconut cream gives a richer, creamier texture so use that if you have it. Both tend to clump in the can, so give it a good shake before opening. For an even smoother result, you can warm it on the stovetop to melt the clumps. Just be sure to let it cool completely before using.
• Sweetened condensed milk: the Vietnamese coffee sweetener of choice. Keep in mind that Lee’s Coffee Concentrate is already sweetened, so we are not adding too much.
• Ice: I’m using whole ice cubes to blend longer for a smoother slushy. Crushed ice works too if that’s what you have.
• Blender: Any high-power blender will do. I’m using my awesome Vitamix.

How to Make Vietnamese Coconut Coffee

It’s as easy as 1-2-3.

Step 1: Make Coconut Slushy

In a blender, combine ice, sweetened condensed milk and coconut cream.

Blend on high until smooth, about 1 minute or a bit longer, depending on the the power of your blender. You want the ice to break down into a thick, slushy texture.

Step 3: Serve

Give it mix to incorporate the sweet coconut slushy with the strong coffee and enjoy.

FAQs

Can I use other coffee brands?

You can use any brand of coffee concentrate or brew your favorite coffee from scratch then top it with the coconut slush.

One popular option that is popular with Vietnamese restaurants in the U.S. is Café Du Monde. This brand is made from a blend of dark roasted coffee and chicory.