National Dish Vietnam: Ca Phe Trung (Recipe)
In this article
Meet Ca Phe Trung, Vietnam’s famously indulgent egg coffee. It marries strong, intense coffee with a fluffy, custard-like crown of whipped egg yolk and sweetened condensed milk, creating a drink that feels more like a dessert in a glass. The magic lies in the balance between bold bitterness and gentle sweetness, and it makes a wonderfully refreshing treat on a warm afternoon. Whether you are a devoted coffee lover or simply curious about new flavours, this one is an absolute must-try.
About Ca Phe Trung
Ca Phe Trung is far more than just a drink; it is a genuine flavour experience that captivates the senses. This Vietnamese take on iced coffee brings together the aromas of strong, intense coffee and the sweet, creamy texture of egg yolk and condensed milk. The whole art of making it lies in striking the perfect balance between strength and sweetness, and it remains a much-loved refreshment during the warmer months. However you like your coffee, this recipe turns an everyday cup into something memorable.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 2 fresh egg yolks
- 2–3 tablespoons sugar (to taste)
- 3–4 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
- 200 ml strong, freshly brewed coffee
- Ice cubes (optional)
Shopping for the ingredients
To make Ca Phe Trung you will need a few specific ingredients, most of which are easy to track down in any well-stocked supermarket. Fresh egg yolks are essential, so it is worth paying attention to the quality of your eggs. Try to source sweetened condensed milk from an Asian grocery, as these shops often carry the best selection. If you are brewing the coffee yourself, choose a variety with good-quality coffee beans for the finest flavour.
Preparing the dish
Before you start making your Ca Phe Trung, it helps to have everything ready to hand. That means separating the egg yolks from the whites, which is easiest when the eggs are nice and fresh. Make sure your coffee is freshly brewed and still hot, as it needs to blend smoothly with the other ingredients. You can also get a few ice cubes ready in advance if you prefer the iced version of this Vietnamese classic.
Step-by-step instructions
- Whisk the egg yolks with the sugar in a bowl until the mixture turns creamy and frothy.
- Add the sweetened condensed milk and stir well until everything is thoroughly combined.
- Brew the strong coffee and let it cool slightly.
- Pour the hot coffee slowly into the egg yolk mixture, stirring constantly to achieve an even texture.
- Serve in a glass with ice cubes and enjoy the lovely creamy layering!
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
The recipe for Ca Phe Trung is naturally gluten-free and needs no special tweaks for anyone with a gluten intolerance. For those who are lactose-intolerant, you can swap in lactose-free condensed milk, which delivers a similar sweet, creamy taste. Plant-based milk such as oat or almond milk also makes for an interesting and tasty alternative. Just make sure the plant milk is sweetened too, so the overall balance of flavour stays intact.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
For vegetarians, Ca Phe Trung is a simple and delicious choice, as it contains no meat products. Vegans can find a creative alternative by replacing the egg yolk with a mixture of plant-based cream substitute and sugar, which whips up into a similar foam when beaten vigorously. Another option is to use chia seeds or aquafaba in place of the egg yolks to achieve a comparable consistency.
More tips and tricks
To refine the flavour profile of Ca Phe Trung, you can experiment by adding a dash of vanilla extract or a hint of cinnamon. A pinch of sea salt rounds off the sweetness of the condensed milk and brings out some intriguing flavour effects. It is also worth trying different coffee roasts to discover which combination suits you best. Finally, you can vary the look by presenting the drink in a tall glass or a small cup.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
Are you after a slightly stronger flavour? Then simply increase the amount of coffee you use, or even reach for an espresso. For a sweeter drink, adjust the quantity of sugar so it matches your personal taste exactly. You can control the consistency too — add more condensed milk for a creamier version, or less if you prefer something a little lighter.
Ingredient substitutions
If you do not have sweetened condensed milk to hand, you can put together your own alternative using regular milk and sugar. Coffee is widely available across the world, and you can use different varieties to give the mixture a particular character. Flavours such as hazelnut or caramel make excellent additions as well. If you switch coffee bean varieties, just make sure the new one harmonises with the sweetness of the other ingredients — much as the balance you would aim for in a sweet treat like Banh Bo.
Drink pairing ideas
Plenty of drinks go very well alongside Ca Phe Trung. A classic Vietnamese green tea, for instance, makes a perfect choice for lightening up the coffee. For something more refreshing, fruit smoothies complement the drink beautifully. A cool fruit juice or a fizzy soft drink can also offer a welcome change of pace.
Serving and presentation ideas
The way you present Ca Phe Trung can greatly enhance the drinking experience. Use attractive glasses that show off the layering of the ingredients. For decoration, add a dusting of cocoa powder or a few roasted coffee beans on top. A fresh sprig of mint lends a bright note and looks appealing too. It really is worth taking the time to make the drink look its best — we drink with our eyes as well.
A bit of history
Ca Phe Trung has a fascinating history closely tied to Vietnam’s coffee culture. It originated in Hanoi and was first invented in the 1940s, at a time when coffee beans were becoming a prized product in Vietnam. The use of egg yolk was a creative solution to enrich the flavour combination and turn the drink into a popular treat. Today it is known well beyond Vietnam’s borders and enjoys growing popularity in many other countries — a delicious gateway into Vietnam cuisine.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Ca Phe Trung
All in all, Ca Phe Trung offers a delicious way to experience Vietnamese coffee culture. This creamy, sweet pairing of coffee and egg yolk is easy to prepare and delights with every sip. Whether you treat yourself to one on a hot summer’s day or simply fancy trying something new, this recipe is the perfect choice. Bring the taste of Vietnam into your own kitchen and enjoy the exciting aroma and unique texture.
