If you’ve been scrolling through Instagram or TikTok lately, chances are you’ve stumbled upon a frothy, cloud-like coffee that looks like it came straight out of a dream. That, my friend, is Cloud Coffee.

It’s eye-catching, fluffy, and let’s be honest—a little bit magical. But what actually is Cloud Coffee? Is it just another fleeting trend or is there something more to it? And most importantly: should you try it?

Let’s break it all down.

So, What Is Cloud Coffee?

Cloud Coffee, also sometimes called whipped coffee, is a drink that went viral in early 2020 during the pandemic. Stuck at home, people got creative with their morning brews and started whipping instant coffee, sugar, and hot water into this fluffy, meringue-like foam that floats on top of milk like a little coffee cloud.

The drink actually has roots in South Korea, where it’s called “Dalgona Coffee,” inspired by a toffee-like Korean street candy. But the term “Cloud Coffee” has caught on thanks to its dreamy, pillowy texture.

It’s basically a reverse latte. Instead of milk topped with espresso, it’s milk topped with whipped coffee foam.

And yes—it’s as fun to make as it is to drink.

Why Is It Trending (Again)?

Trends come and go, but Cloud Coffee seems to have staying power. Here’s why it’s making a comeback:

1. Aesthetic Appeal

Let’s face it, it’s gorgeous. That velvety swirl on top of a glass of cold milk? It’s basically art in a cup. People love sharing it on social media, and who can blame them?

2. Customizable

You can sweeten it, spice it, even spike it. Whether you’re into vanilla oat milk or almond milk with cinnamon, Cloud Coffee is your canvas.

3. DIY Vibes

There’s something deeply satisfying about whipping your own coffee by hand (or with a frother if you’re fancy). It’s like a mini arm workout that ends in caffeinated bliss.

4. Comfort and Nostalgia

For many, it’s tied to a strange but memorable time: quarantine life. Recreating that comforting little ritual can feel grounding.

5. It Actually Tastes Good

Bold, sweet, creamy, and a bit strong—Cloud Coffee isn’t just pretty, it’s delicious. If you like iced lattes or coffee desserts, you’ll probably love this.

How Do You Make Cloud Coffee?

Surprisingly easy. You don’t need any special equipment or barista-level skills. Just a little patience and a whisk (or a handheld milk frother, if you’re smart).

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons instant coffee (important: instant, not ground)
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 2 tablespoons hot water
  • Milk (dairy or plant-based)
  • Ice (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, combine the instant coffee, sugar, and hot water.
  2. Whisk vigorously. Like, really go for it. You can use a hand whisk (takes 5-8 mins), an electric mixer (2-3 mins), or a frother (super fast).
  3. Watch as the mixture transforms into a thick, caramel-colored foam.
  4. Fill a glass with milk and ice.
  5. Spoon the coffee cloud on top.
  6. Snap a photo (you will want to).
  7. Stir it in or sip through the foam and enjoy.

Variations to Try

The best part about Cloud Coffee? You can remix it a hundred different ways. Here are a few ideas to level up your cup:

  • Mocha Cloud: Add cocoa powder to the mix for a chocolatey twist.
  • Spiced Cloud: Mix in cinnamon, nutmeg, or even pumpkin spice.
  • Vanilla Dream: Add a splash of vanilla extract for a softer flavor.
  • Matcha Cloud: Whip matcha powder with cream for a green tea version.
  • Boozy Cloud: A splash of Bailey’s or Kahlúa, anyone?

Let your imagination run wild. The cloud is your canvas.

But Wait, Is It Healthy?

That depends. If you’re watching your sugar or caffeine intake, it’s something to be mindful of. Cloud Coffee is strong and sweet—each serving packs a good dose of both.

But it’s also easy to tweak. Use less sugar. Use decaf instant coffee. Use a sugar substitute. Or just save it for an occasional treat. Your body, your rules.

Tips for First-Timers

  • Use instant coffee. Regular ground coffee won’t whip—you need the soluble kind.
  • Hot water matters. It helps dissolve the coffee and sugar quickly.
  • Chill your milk. Cold milk + warm foam = great contrast.
  • Don’t overwhip. You want soft peaks, not dry clumps.
  • Drink it fast-ish. The foam deflates after a while. Not that you’ll be waiting long.

Who Will Love It?

  • The casual coffee drinker who wants to try something different.
  • The coffee snob who wants a break from pour-overs.
  • The TikTok-er looking for that perfect aesthetic shot.
  • The sweet tooth who craves dessert-in-a-glass.

Basically: if you love coffee and fun, you’ll probably love this.

Final Sip: Should You Try Cloud Coffee?

Absolutely. Will it change your life? Probably not. But will it brighten your morning, give you a creative little ritual, and maybe make you smile? Yeah. It might.

Cloud Coffee is more than just a trend. It’s playful, it’s beautiful, and it’s surprisingly satisfying to make. If you’ve been curious about it, consider this your sign.

Go whip up a cup. Your inner barista is waiting.