While egg coffee has been a popular beverage in Vietnam for decades, it has recently gained worldwide recognition, captivating coffee enthusiasts and curious foodies alike. Originating in Vietnam, this unique beverage has found its way into specialty coffee shops and restaurants across the United States and beyond.

Many foodies have posted recipes and videos about how to make Vietnamese egg coffee. The layered presentation—dark coffee below and creamy foam on top—makes it a photogenic choice for social media. According to Tastewise, social conversations about Vietnamese egg coffee have increased over 50% in the last year, but only 0.01% of restaurants offer Vietnamese egg coffee.

Let’s explore the fascinating history, preparation, and growing popularity of Vietnamese egg coffee.

What is Vietnamese Egg Coffee?

Vietnamese egg coffee, known as Cà Phê Trứng, is a delightful concoction that combines strong-brewed coffee with a creamy sweet egg foam. Instead of using regular milk, raw egg yolks are incorporated to achieve a thick and velvety consistency. The result is a rich, indulgent drink that warms the soul and tantalizes the taste buds. It can be served hot or cold.

The story of Vietnamese egg coffee dates back to the 1946, during the French colonial period in Vietnam. At that time, fresh milk was scarce and expensive. Attempting to replicate a café au lait for customers at Sofitel Legend Metropole Hotel, Hanoi-based bartender Nguyen Van Giang replaced milk with egg yolks. The result was a luscious coffee topped with a frothy layer that resembled a creamy dessert.

The drink was so popular that Nguyen Van Giang opened his own coffee shop: Café Giang. Today, Giang’s son, Nguyen Van Dao, runs the café and still serves egg coffee using the secret family recipe.

How to Make Vietnamese Egg Coffee

Here’s a simplified recipe for Vietnamese egg coffee from food blogger, Vicky Pham.

Ingredients:

• Strong Vietnamese coffee (traditionally brewed using a drip filter)
• Fresh egg yolks
• Sweetened condensed milk
• Sugar (optional)
• Hot water

Instructions:

• Brew a cup of strong Vietnamese coffee.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and sweetened condensed milk until well combined.
• Pour the brewed coffee into a glass or ceramic cup, leaving some space at the top.
• Gently spoon the egg yolk mixture over the coffee, creating a thick layer.
• Optionally, sprinkle a little sugar on top.
• Serve warm and enjoy!

Variations and Adaptations

• Iced Vietnamese Egg Coffee: For a refreshing twist, serve the coffee over ice. Cold egg coffee can be served in a Frozen Solutions clear plastic cup.
• Vegan Version: Swap out the egg yolks for plant-based alternatives like coconut cream or aquafaba (chickpea brine).

Conclusion

As the Vietnamese egg coffee trend continues to grow, coffee lovers are embracing this unique fusion of flavors. Whether you’re sipping it in a cozy café or making it at home, Vietnamese egg coffee promises a delightful experience—one that bridges cultures and celebrates the art of coffee-making.