How to Make Coconut Cold Foam for Coffee: Dairy & Non-Dairy Recipes for a Creamy Coffee Topping

If you’ve checked out any of the other recent recipes on this site, you’ve likely encountered my love for cold foam—a light, airy topping that adds a touch of decadence to any cup of coffee. Coconut cold foam, in particular, brings a delightful tropical twist to our usual coffee routine. Whether you’re dairy-free or not, this rich and frothy topping is a showstopper in two simple ways—using dairy or non-dairy alternatives.

In this post, we’ll break down how to make coconut cold foam both ways—so you can create a perfect coffee drink no matter your dietary preferences.

What is Coconut Cold Foam?

Coconut cold foam is a fluffy topping made from coconut milk or coconut cream, often whipped until it’s light and airy. It can be added to various coffee drinks such as iced lattes, cold brews, and iced coffees, creating a creamy texture without the heaviness of traditional whipped cream.

The best part about coconut cold foam? It’s incredibly versatile and can be made with both dairy and non-dairy ingredients, giving you a range of options to suit your taste! Both of my kids had a milk protein intolerance as newborns which meant that I had to go dairy free since I was breastfeeding. Finding nondairy options was… not fun. But this coconut cold foam was a winner for sure. I didn’t even miss the dairy! Of course, as soon as I was back on dairy I snuck some heavy cream back in and it’s even better.

Coconut Cold Foam Recipe #1: Dairy Version

If you’re a dairy drinker or just prefer a more traditional approach to cold foam, the dairy version is perfect for you. For this recipe, we’ll use full-fat coconut milk combined with heavy cream for that extra creamy texture.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk (from a can for richer texture)
• 2 tbsp heavy cream (for added richness)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional, for flavor)
• Sweetener (optional, such as sugar, maple syrup, or agave)

Instructions:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, pour in the full-fat coconut milk and heavy cream. If you like a sweeter cold foam, add a touch of sugar or sweetener at this point. You can also add a splash of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
2. Whisk the Mixture: Use an electric frother, hand whisk, or even a stand mixer to whip the mixture. Whisk for 1–2 minutes, until it forms a light, airy foam. You want the foam to hold its shape but still be soft enough to melt into your coffee. This is one of the only cold foams that I don’t have luck with in the countertop frother – try a hand frother first if you have one!
3. Serve: Pour the foam over your iced coffee, cold brew, or iced latte. You’ll notice the foam floats on top, adding a delightful coconut flavor and creaminess to your drink.
4. Optional Garnishes: If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with shredded coconut or a drizzle of caramel syrup to elevate your coconut coffee experience!

Coconut Cold Foam Recipe #2: Non-Dairy Version

For those who are dairy-free or prefer a lighter alternative, making coconut cold foam with non-dairy milk is just as easy. We’ll use coconut milk and coconut cream to create a rich, vegan-friendly foam. This version is dairy-free, soy-free, and perfect for anyone following a dairy free diet.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup canned coconut milk (full-fat)
• 2 tbsp coconut cream (for extra richness)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional, for flavor)
• Sweetener (optional, like maple syrup, agave, or stevia)

Instructions:

1. Combine the Ingredients: In a small bowl or measuring cup, pour in the coconut milk and coconut cream. If you prefer a sweeter foam, add a small amount of your preferred sweetener. You can also stir in some vanilla extract if you like the taste of vanilla in your coffee.
2. Froth the Mixture: Use an electric hand frother or hand whisk to froth the mixture. Aim for about 1-2 minutes of frothing until you see the foam form. It should be thick and fluffy, with a light texture that won’t sink into your drink immediately. The countertop frother isn’t going to give you the texture you’re looking for here, at least not in my experience, so it’s best to go the handheld route.
3. Serve: Spoon the coconut foam over your favorite iced coffee or cold brew drink. The foam will add a light, tropical touch to the coffee’s bitterness, making it smooth and delicious.
4. Optional Garnishes: Top your drink with toasted coconut flakes or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor and flair!

Tips for the Best Coconut Cold Foam

1. Choose Full-Fat Coconut Milk or Coconut Cream: To achieve the best texture for your cold foam, always opt for full-fat coconut milk or coconut cream (from a can). This ensures your foam is thick and creamy, just like the one you get from your favorite coffee shop.
2. Frothing Tools: If you don’t have an electric hand frother, you can use a hand whisk, stand mixer, or even a mason jar with a tight lid to shake the mixture into foam. However, using a dedicated frother will give you the best results.
3. Temperature Matters: Cold foam is typically made with cold ingredients. If you use warm coconut milk or coconut cream, the foam might not form as well. Make sure to chill your coconut milk beforehand!
4. Sweeteners: Coconut milk has a natural sweetness, but if you like a sweeter foam, feel free to add a bit of sugar, maple syrup, or your favorite sweetener. Keep in mind that cold foam is light and fluffy, so the sweetener may need to be dissolved into the foam for the perfect taste.
5. Experiment with Flavors: Coconut foam pairs wonderfully with other flavors. You can mix in cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a dash of chocolate syrup to enhance your coffee drink.

Serving Ideas

Now that you’ve mastered both the dairy and non-dairy coconut cold foam recipes, here are some serving ideas for your new creation:

• Iced Latte: Pour your favorite cold brew or espresso over ice, top with coconut cold foam, and enjoy a refreshing iced latte with a tropical twist.
• Iced Coffee: Brew your coffee, chill it, and top it with a generous layer of coconut cold foam for an indulgent treat.
• Cold Brew: Cold brew coffee and coconut cold foam are a match made in heaven. The smooth, mellow flavors of cold brew complement the creamy foam perfectly.
• Coconut Mocha: Combine your cold foam with a bit of chocolate syrup and pour it over iced coffee for a coconut mocha experience.

Whether you prefer dairy or non-dairy, making coconut cold foam is a simple way to elevate your coffee game. The creamy flavor of coconut adds a delightful tropical twist to your usual coffee routine, and it’s easily customizable to suit your dietary needs.

So, the next time you’re in the mood for something special, try out these coconut cold foam recipes. If the closest you’re getting to the beach with a coconut drink is hand is sitting in a lawn chair watching your toddlers run through the sprinkler and drinking an iced coffee with this cold foam, I’m right there with you. Cheers!