
1. Traditional Vietnamese salted coffee recipe
Originating in Hue over a decade ago, salted coffee (ca phe muoi) quickly captured local hearts across the country. This unique beverage combines three simple ingredients: coffee, milk, and salt, traditionally prepared using an aluminum filter (phin). Hue salted coffee is artfully layered with condensed milk at the bottom, a cream layer in the middle, and coffee slowly dripping from the phin on top.

Salted coffee has become a must-try for coffee lovers in Vietnam (Source: Collected)
What makes salt such a brilliant addition to coffee? The science is fascinating: sodium ions naturally neutralize coffee’s bitter compounds while enhancing its inherent sweetness. This makes the drink smoother and more balanced than traditional sweetened coffee, offering an alternative for those looking to reduce sugar intake without compromising on taste.
1.1. Ingredients
The ingredients for Hue salted coffee are as follows:
- Ground coffee (30g)
- Salt (6g, adjustable to taste)
- Condensed milk
- Hot water
In addition, you will need a phin filter.
1.2. Instructions
How to make salted coffee in the authentic Hue style? Follow this Vietnamese salt coffee recipe and enjoy a savory twist on your regular cup of coffee:
- Rinse the phin filter thoroughly with boiling water to prevent temperature fluctuations during brewing and ensure even coffee bloom and optimal aroma release.
- Add ground coffee and salt to the warmed phin filter. Mix them thoroughly. Adjust the filter press cap carefully to ensure a proper drip rate.
- Slowly pour hot water in a circular motion around the filter’s edge. Let the coffee drip gradually into the cup below.
- Add condensed milk to taste and stir well to combine.

In the traditional Hue salted coffee recipe, salt is mixed with ground coffee before brewing (Source: Collected)
More on: Coffee in Hue: One ingredient makes coffee magic
2. Salted coffee with whipped cream recipe
As a delightful variation of the traditional salty coffee recipe, salted coffee with whipped cream elevates the drink to new heights. This creative twist blends coffee’s bitterness with salted whipped cream topping, while a gentle dusting of cocoa powder adds an aromatic touch that makes each sip uniquely memorable.
2.1. Ingredients
For this salted coffee recipe, prepare the following:
- Medium-ground coffee (25g)
- Hot water (95ml at 95°C)
- Condensed milk (25ml)
- Whipping cream (200ml)
- Fine salt (5g)
In addition, you will need a phin filter, an electric whisk/mixer, measuring cups, a stirring spoon, etc. Cocoa powder for garnish might also be necessary.
2.2. Instructions
Follow these easy steps for this delightful salted coffee recipe with whipped cream topping:
- Rinse the phin filter thoroughly with boiling water.
- Add 25g of medium-ground coffee to the warmed phin filter. Pour 45ml of hot water for initial bloom, press gently with the filter screen, then add the remaining 50ml of hot water. Let the coffee drip completely.
- Combine 200ml of whipping cream and 5g of salt in a mixing bowl. Whip the mixture for 2-3 minutes until the soft peaks form.
- Add 25ml of condensed milk to the brewed coffee. Top with 15-20ml of the salted whipped cream.
- Optional: Dust with cocoa powder for added aroma.

Combine whipping cream and salt to make salted cream (Source: Collected)
Discover: Vietnamese Coffee: A must-try specialty with an intensely strong taste
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3. Tips for making a perfect salted coffee
3.1. Choose pure coffee beans
Crafting a perfect Vietnamese salted coffee begins with selecting pure, freshly roasted beans from trusted sources. Skip flavored or instant varieties. Grind the beans just before brewing for optimal aroma.
3.2. Prepare high-quality and clean tools
Your equipment matters too. Use a quality phin filter with even holes, and ceramic or glass cups for better heat retention. Always preheat your tools with hot water before brewing.
3.3. Ensure proper ingredient ratios
The secret to a balanced salted coffee recipe lies in the proportions. Whether you are making the traditional salted coffee or the whipped cream variation, maintain a careful balance between the salt, coffee, and milk – too much of any ingredient will disrupt the harmony of flavors. Start with recommended measurements, then subtly adjust to your taste while preserving the delicate interplay between bitter, sweet, and salty notes.

The quality and type of coffee beans are the foundation of any coffee drink (Source: Collected)
Explore Egg coffee – another signature Vietnamese coffee!
This salted coffee recipe offers a delightful twist on the traditional Vietnamese coffee, where salt enhances the coffee’s natural sweetness while taming its bitterness. Whether you choose the classic style or the creamy variation, each sip delivers a perfectly balanced coffee experience.
Apart from its vibrant coffee culture, Vietnam travel also beckons with its rich offerings of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Iconic destinations like Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, and Hoi An each offer their unique charm. For entertainment, you can come to the entertainment complexes of VinWonders, where exciting games, spectacular shows, and unique attractions await.
To complete the journey in Vietnam, you can indulge in a luxurious stay at the premium hotels and resorts of Vinpearl, where world-class amenities meet Vietnamese hospitality.

VinWonders Phu Quoc, the largest theme park in Vietnam
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VinWonders Nha Trang on Hon Tre Island
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VinWonders Nam Hoi An combines traditional heritage with modern attractions
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