If you’re a fan of rich coffee flavor and creamy, icy drinks that invigorate and delight your taste buds, let us introduce you to a game-changer: the Vietnamese Coffee Smoothie. This indulgent yet refreshing beverage is the perfect fusion of bold Vietnamese coffee and the chilled smoothness of a blended treat—ideal for summer mornings, afternoon pick-me-ups, or even as a unique dessert drink. It combines tradition with a modern twist, offering all the depth and sweetness of authentic Vietnamese coffee in smoothie form.
Let’s dive into the delicious details of what makes this drink special, how to make it at home, and how to customize it to your taste.
☕ What Is Vietnamese Coffee?
Before we get to the smoothie, it’s essential to understand the foundation: Vietnamese coffee. Known for its deep, intense flavor and sweet creaminess, this coffee is made using a strong dark roast—often Robusta beans—brewed slowly in a metal drip filter called a phin. The resulting coffee is typically poured over a layer of sweetened condensed milk, giving it a creamy richness that balances the bold, slightly bitter notes of the coffee itself.
Vietnamese coffee is typically served hot or over ice (cà phê sữa đá), but its distinct flavor profile also lends itself beautifully to creative beverages like the Vietnamese Coffee Smoothie.
What Is a Vietnamese Coffee Smoothie?
The Vietnamese Coffee Smoothie takes the best elements of traditional Vietnamese iced coffee and blends them with ice, banana (or avocado), and sometimes milk or yogurt to create a creamy, frothy drink with bold coffee undertones. It’s both energizing and indulgent—a perfect blend of dessert and beverage.
It’s cool, slightly sweet, and thick like a milkshake, but with the caffeine kick of a strong cup of coffee. Whether enjoyed as breakfast, a midday refresher, or a post-dinner treat, this smoothie is a satisfying and exciting option for coffee lovers.
Why You’ll Love This Smoothie
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Bold & Balanced Flavor
The smooth bitterness of strong coffee is mellowed by the sweetness of condensed milk and the creamy texture of banana or avocado, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. -
Cooling & Energizing
This icy beverage refreshes you instantly while delivering a powerful dose of caffeine—great for hot days or early mornings. -
Customizable to Your Diet
Easily make it dairy-free, vegan, or lower in sugar by swapping ingredients while keeping that classic coffee taste. -
A Unique Spin on Coffee
It’s not just another iced coffee—it’s a smoothie, a milkshake, and an energy boost all rolled into one.
Ingredients for Vietnamese Coffee Smoothie
This smoothie comes together quickly with just a few ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
Base Ingredients:
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Strong brewed Vietnamese coffee (about ½ cup; preferably using a phin filter)
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Sweetened condensed milk (2–3 tablespoons, adjust to taste)
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1 ripe banana (for natural sweetness and creaminess) or ½ ripe avocado for a buttery texture
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1 cup of ice (crushed or cubes)
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½ cup milk (dairy or plant-based like almond, oat, or coconut)
Optional Add-ins:
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1 tablespoon Greek yogurt (for extra creaminess and tang)
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1 scoop protein powder (to turn it into a post-workout drink)
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A pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract (for extra flavor)
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Chia seeds or flaxseeds (for a fiber boost)
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Whipped cream topping (for a dessert-style treat)
How to Brew Vietnamese Coffee (The Traditional Way)
If you want to go authentic, here’s how to make Vietnamese coffee using a phin filter:
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Add 2 tablespoons of Vietnamese ground coffee (like Trung Nguyên or Café du Monde) into your phin filter.
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Place the phin over a glass with 2–3 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk at the bottom.
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Pour a small amount of hot water over the grounds to bloom them, then fill the phin with hot water and let it drip slowly (this takes about 4–5 minutes).
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Once it’s done dripping, stir to combine with the condensed milk.
Alternatively, if you’re short on time, you can use strong brewed espresso or cold brew as a substitute.
How to Make a Vietnamese Coffee Smoothie
Once you’ve brewed your coffee, it’s smoothie time!
Instructions:
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Cool Your Coffee:
If using freshly brewed hot coffee, let it cool for a few minutes or pour it over ice to chill quickly. -
Blend the Ingredients:
In a high-speed blender, combine the cooled coffee, sweetened condensed milk, banana (or avocado), ice, and milk. Add any optional extras you like. -
Blend Until Smooth:
Blend on high for 30–60 seconds, or until the mixture is completely smooth and frothy. -
Serve Immediately:
Pour into a chilled glass. Garnish with a drizzle of condensed milk, chocolate shavings, or whipped cream if desired.
Variations and Customization Ideas
One of the best parts of making this smoothie is how easy it is to customize:
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Avocado Version: Swap the banana for half a ripe avocado for a Vietnamese sinh tố bơ cà phê (avocado coffee shake). It’s ultra-creamy and has a buttery richness.
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Vegan Version: Use coconut condensed milk and almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
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Chocolate Boost: Add a spoonful of cocoa powder or a splash of chocolate syrup for a mocha twist.
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Nutty Blend: Add a spoonful of peanut butter or almond butter for protein and nutty richness.
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Tropical Flair: Toss in some coconut milk and shredded coconut for a tropical coffee smoothie.
Tips for the Perfect Coffee Smoothie
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Use Cold Ingredients: For the best texture, make sure your coffee is chilled and your banana or avocado is ripe and cold.
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Adjust Sweetness: Taste before serving and add more condensed milk or a splash of maple syrup if needed.
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Chill the Glass: Pouring the smoothie into a chilled glass keeps it colder longer, especially on hot days.
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Add Ice Gradually: Too much ice can make the smoothie watery. Start with 1 cup and add more if needed.
When to Enjoy a Vietnamese Coffee Smoothie
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Morning Boost: It’s a great alternative to traditional hot coffee or breakfast shakes.
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Post-Workout: Add protein powder and Greek yogurt to fuel your recovery.
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Afternoon Pick-Me-Up: Beat the afternoon slump with a cool, caffeinated sip.
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Dessert Drink: Dress it up with whipped cream and a chocolate drizzle for a guilt-free dessert.
Final Thoughts
The Vietnamese Coffee Smoothie is everything a summer drink should be: rich yet refreshing, indulgent yet energizing. Whether you love the deep, roasted notes of Vietnamese coffee or you’re simply looking for a fun new way to enjoy your caffeine, this smoothie is sure to become a favorite.
Blending the culture and tradition of Vietnamese coffee with the casual joy of a smoothie, it’s the kind of drink that surprises and satisfies—cool, creamy, and packed with personality. Perfect for sipping poolside, after a jog, or just as a treat to brighten your day.
