Vietnamese egg coffee, or cà phê trứng, is a silky, luxurious treat that feels like dessert in a cup. Combining the boldness of Vietnamese coffee with the creamy sweetness of whipped egg yolk, sugar, and condensed milk, it’s a drink that tells a story as rich as its flavour.
At VietCaPhe, we believe every sip of coffee should be an experience. Using our specialty Vietnamese Robusta coffee and authentic brewing tools like the VietCaPhe Phin filter, you can elevate this recipe to new heights.
The History of Vietnamese Egg Coffee
This iconic drink originated in Hanoi during the 1940s, born out of necessity. Fresh milk was scarce during the war, so Nguyễn Văn Giang, a bartender at the luxurious Sofitel Legend Metropole Hotel, ingeniously replaced milk with whisked egg yolk to create a creamy coffee substitute.
What began as a creative solution quickly became a beloved tradition. Today, you can still enjoy authentic Vietnamese egg coffee at Café Giang in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, which was founded by Nguyễn Văn Giang himself. Café Giang remains a must-visit destination for coffee enthusiasts, serving this historic drink to locals and tourists alike.
Now, with VietCaPhe, you can bring this authentic experience into your own home.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- 15-20g of VietCaPhe Highland Essence ground coffee (for rich, bold flavour).
- 1 egg yolk (fresh and free-range for best results).
- 2 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk.
- 1 teaspoon of sugar.
- Hot water.
Equipment
- VietCaPhe Phin filter (or an espresso machine as an alternative).
- A small bowl for mixing.
- A whisk, milk frother, or electric hand mixer.
- A heatproof coffee cup.
Brewing the Coffee
Step 1: Prepare Your Coffee
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Using the VietCaPhe Phin filter:
- Add 15-20g of VietCaPhe Highland Essence coarse ground coffee to the Phin filter.
- Gently press the filter plate down to level the grounds.
- Place the Phin filter on your cup.
- Pour a small amount of hot water (about 90°C) over the coffee grounds to "bloom" them, releasing their rich aroma. Wait 30 seconds.
- Slowly add more hot water until the Phin is full. Cover with the lid and let the coffee drip through (this takes 3–5 minutes).
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Espresso machine alternative:
- Use VietCaPhe Highland Essence coffee (finely ground).
- Tamp evenly to ensure smooth extraction.
- Brew a single or double shot of espresso.
Step 2: Create the Egg Cream Topping
- Separate the egg yolk from the white and place the yolk in a small bowl.
- Add the sugar and condensed milk to the yolk.
- Whip the mixture until it becomes pale, frothy, and forms soft peaks. This process can take 3–5 minutes with a hand whisk or 1–2 minutes with an electric frother.
Step 3: Combine and Serve
- Once the coffee is brewed, pour it into your heatproof cup if you used an espresso machine. If you brewed with the Phin filter, it’s already in your cup.
- Gently spoon or pour the whipped egg cream mixture over the coffee. Aim for a thick, creamy layer on top.
- Serve immediately. To enjoy, either sip through the egg cream layer or stir it gently into the coffee for a velvety blend.
Tips for Perfecting Your Vietnamese Egg Coffee
- Choose the right coffee: Specialty Robusta, like VietCaPhe Highland Essence, is key for achieving the bold, chocolatey base that complements the sweet topping.
- Freshness matters: Always use freshly brewed coffee for the best results. Our coffee is roasted to order to ensure optimal flavour.
- Don’t rush the egg cream: Whipping the yolk properly creates that signature fluffy texture.
- Serve warm: Egg coffee is best enjoyed when the coffee is still hot, as the cream melds perfectly with the warmth of the drink.
Why VietCaPhe is Perfect for Vietnamese Egg Coffee
At VietCaPhe, we source and roast specialty Vietnamese Robusta beans that are rich, aromatic, and high in caffeine. The bold flavours pair beautifully with the sweetness of egg coffee, creating an unforgettable experience.
Using our VietCaPhe Phin filter brings a touch of authenticity and tradition to your brewing process, ensuring every drop captures the essence of Vietnamese coffee culture.
Reimagine Your Coffee Moments
Vietnamese egg coffee isn’t just a drink—it’s a way to experience the vibrant history and creativity of Vietnam. By brewing it at home, you’re not just making coffee; you’re recreating a piece of Hanoi’s Old Quarter in your kitchen.
At VietCaPhe, we believe in crafting coffee moments that uplift and inspire. Share this recipe with loved ones or enjoy it solo for a luxurious treat. With every cup, you’re embracing a rich tradition while adding your own twist to this iconic beverage.