Café Sữa Đá Recipe

Brew espresso or strong coffee

Brew two shots (about 60 ml) of espresso using an espresso machine. Alternatively, make a very strong 60 ml pour-over or French press concentrate using finely ground coffee and hot water. If using brewed coffee instead of espresso, use the 60 ml hot water measurement to extract the concentrate.

If you prefer a hot Café Sữa, keep the espresso hot and proceed to the mixing step. For iced, allow the espresso to cool slightly (1–2 minutes) so it doesn't melt ice immediately and dilute the drink too fast.

Combine condensed milk and coffee

Place 3 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk into the serving glass or cup. Pour the hot (or warm) espresso directly over the condensed milk. For an even mixture, stir vigorously with a spoon until the condensed milk is fully dissolved and the liquid is uniform in color and texture (about 10–15 seconds). Taste and add more condensed milk if you want it sweeter or creamier.

Iced Café Sữa Đá

Fill a tall glass with about 1 cup of ice cubes. Pour the mixed coffee + condensed milk over the ice. If you want it slightly lighter, add 1 tablespoon of whole milk or evaporated milk and stir briefly to combine. Garnish with a mint sprig or a small sprinkle of toasted coconut if desired. Serve with a straw.

Hot Café Sữa Nóng

For a hot version, after stirring the espresso and condensed milk together, optionally add 1 tablespoon of warmed whole milk or evaporated milk to soften the sweetness. Serve immediately in a pre-warmed cup. Garnish with a small mint sprig if desired.