Caffeine-Free? Try Out Whipped Dalgona Chocolate Milk
Meet the Kid-Friendly, Caffeine-Free Take on the Dalgona Craze
If you visited Instagram or Pinterest at all this summer, you would have been greeted with countless photos of frothy Dalgona coffee concoctions. And while the heavily caffeinated drink felt like a natural match for summer’s sunny energy, the buzz can sometimes be too much – even for us. As we move into autumn, we’re eager to try a new, mellower take on Dalgona: whipped chocolate. This fresh twist on chocolate milk can be enjoyed hot or cold. Plus, thanks to its caffeine-free status, it can be sipped by kids and adults alike, making it the perfect after-school treat or movie night accompaniment. For all of the delicious details, read on.
Dalgona Chocolate Milk Versus Dalgona Coffee
Although they both require only three ingredients, these two Dalgona drinks have unique recipes. The instant coffee granules used for Dalgona coffee contain different fats and proteins than those found in cocoa powder (although the actual scientific process of the drink is still in fact debated). These fats and proteins help produce an aerated foam mixture, which is then stabilized with the addition of sugar.
By contrast, cocoa powder can’t be whipped on its own, so it needs a little help: enter egg whites. Just like making a meringue, these egg whites can be whipped into soft peaks. Again, the addition of sugar maintains the aerated structure so the heavier cocoa can be whisked in for flavor.
We found that, overall, the egg white method created a sturdier foam than the one we whipped up for Dalgona coffee; however, some food scientists believe the type of instant coffee used may impact structure. One thing we can say for sure, though, is that both recipes taste delicious!
Egg White Substitutes
If you’d prefer to forgo egg whites, there are several options that will still create a deliciously whipped cocoa. One of the more popular takes on the Dalgona chocolate uses heavy cream, essentially making a chocolate whipped cream that can be dolloped on top of your milk base. If you’re looking for a plant-based substitute, aquafaba, the starchy water found in cans of chickpeas, can be used as a substitute. It’s suggested that you add 1/4 teaspoon of cream of tartar as well for additional stabilization.
Make Your Whipped Cocoa Your Own
As with any drink, Dalgona chocolate milk offers plenty of room for creativity. For those still looking for a caffeine kick, try adding a layer of Dalgona coffee as well for a frothy mocha. Or, sprinkle the drink with extra cocoa, espresso powder, or cinnamon. We also think the addition of some Baileys Irish Cream or Kahluah would be a great addition here as well for a grown-up twist.
Ingredients
1 egg white
1 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp cocoa powder
Milk of your choice
Toppings, optional
Directions
Put egg white in a medium bowl, with enough room to whip.
Using an electric mixer (optional, but highly recommended), whisk the egg white until stiff peaks form.
Sprinkle in sugar. Whisk again until incorporated.
Using a sieve, sift in the cocoa powder. Whisk a final time until well incorporated and fluffy.
Pour milk into a glass. Top with a generous dollop of cocoa mixture.
Add toppings of your choice. To drink, stir the foam into the milk for easy sipping.