How to Make Coconut Cold Foam for Coffee (Dairy and Non Dairy Versions)
If you’ve checked out any of the other recent recipes on this site, you’ve likely encountered my love for cold foam. From sweet seasonal flavors to coffee shop inspired toppings, cold foam is one of the easiest ways to turn a regular iced coffee into something that feels a little extra special.
And this coconut cold foam? It is so, so, good and worthy of a spot on the list.
Light, creamy, slightly tropical, and perfectly frothy, coconut cold foam adds a smooth coffeehouse-style finish to iced coffee, cold brew, or lattes. Even better, this recipe works beautifully both as a dairy version and a completely dairy free cold foam recipe. And by that I mean, I basically lived on this cold foam and my shaken brown sugar oatmilk espresso when I was dairy free while postpartum.
Whether you’re looking for a Starbucks inspired coconut cream cold foam, a dairy free coffee topping, or just a fun new way to upgrade your morning coffee at home, this recipe is incredibly simple to make.
If you love homemade coffee recipes, make sure to also check out our homemade Lavender Latte, pistachio latte, blueberry cobbler latte, and our collection of the best cold foam recipes for even more coffee shop inspired drinks.
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.
Dairy Coconut Cold Foam Recipe
If you want a richer, creamier coffee shop style cold foam, this dairy version is the way to go. The combination of full fat coconut milk and heavy cream creates an ultra silky texture that froths beautifully.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup full fat canned coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- sweetener to taste (maple syrup, sugar, or vanilla syrup)
Instructions
Combine the Ingredients
Add the coconut milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and sweetener to a small bowl or measuring cup.
Froth Until Fluffy
Use a handheld milk frother to whip the mixture for about 1 to 2 minutes until light and airy.
In my experience, this is one of the few cold foam recipes that does not work as well in a countertop frother. A handheld frother gives the best fluffy texture here.
Pour Over Coffee
Spoon the coconut cold foam over iced coffee, cold brew, or espresso drinks.
Optional Toppings
For an extra coffee shop feel, top with:
- toasted coconut
- caramel drizzle
- cinnamon
- chocolate shavings
This pairs especially well with an iced coffee with vanilla syrup or our homemade sugar cookie syrup.
Dairy Free Coconut Cold Foam Recipe
Need a vegan coconut cold foam or dairy free coffee topping? This version is thick, creamy, and incredibly easy.
Using canned coconut milk and coconut cream helps create a rich texture without any dairy at all.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup canned full fat coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons coconut cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- sweetener of choice
Instructions
Mix Ingredients
Combine the coconut milk, coconut cream, vanilla extract, and sweetener in a bowl or frothing cup.
Froth the Mixture
Use a handheld frother for 1 to 2 minutes until fluffy and creamy.
Again, handheld frothers work far better here than countertop frothers if you want that true cold foam texture.
Add to Coffee
Spoon over iced coffee, cold brew, or dairy free lattes.
Garnish Ideas
Try topping your drink with:
- cinnamon
- toasted coconut flakes
- cocoa powder
- a drizzle of maple syrup
Tips for the Best Coconut Cold Foam
- 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.
- 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.
- 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!
- 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.
Flavor Variations
Coconut cold foam works fantastic with:
- vanilla syrup
- cinnamon
- mocha
- caramel
- lavender
- maple
- chocolate
You can even pair it with our homemade pistachio syrup for a pistachio coconut iced latte situation that feels very coffee shop menu worthy.
Best Coffee Drinks for Coconut Cold Foam
Iced Latte
Top espresso and milk with coconut cold foam for a creamy tropical latte.
Cold Brew Coffee
The mellow flavor of cold brew pairs perfectly with sweet coconut cream foam.
Coconut Mocha
Add chocolate syrup to iced coffee and finish with coconut foam for an easy homemade coconut mocha.
Vanilla Iced Coffee
Vanilla and coconut are always a good combination. Add homemade vanilla syrup for an easy coffee shop-style drink.
Brown Sugar Coconut Coffee
Pair coconut foam with brown sugar syrup and espresso for a cozy caramelized flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Coconut Cold Foam Recipe
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!
