Bac Xiu vs Vietnamese Iced Milk Coffee – Key Differences and Authentic Recipes
Vietnam is famous for its sweet, strong coffee culture, and two drinks often cause confusion: Bạc xỉu and cà phê sữa đá (Vietnamese iced milk coffee). While they share ingredients, their ratios and flavor profiles are quite different.
1. What is Bạc Xỉu?
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Origin: Popularized in Saigon in the mid-20th century.
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Ratio: Much more milk than coffee (about 3:1 or even 4:1).
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Taste: Creamy, sweet, and milder in caffeine.
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Best For: Those who want a coffee-flavored milk drink rather than a strong brew.
2. What is Vietnamese Iced Milk Coffee (Cà Phê Sữa Đá)?
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Ratio: Strong phin-brewed coffee to sweetened condensed milk at around 2:1.
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Taste: Bold, bittersweet, and robust, especially with robusta beans.
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Best For: Coffee lovers who want intensity balanced by sweetness.
3. How to Brew Bạc Xỉu (Authentic Style)
Ingredients:
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20–25 ml strong phin-brewed coffee
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60–80 ml hot milk (whole milk or evaporated milk)
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20–25 ml sweetened condensed milk
Steps:
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Brew coffee using a phin filter.
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Warm the milk and mix with condensed milk in a tall glass.
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Add the coffee on top and stir before serving over ice.
4. How to Brew Vietnamese Iced Milk Coffee
Ingredients:
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25 g medium-coarse ground robusta coffee
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40–50 ml sweetened condensed milk
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120 ml hot water
Steps:
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Place condensed milk in a glass.
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Brew coffee directly over it using a phin.
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Stir well, pour over ice, and serve immediately.
5. Key Differences Summary
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Bạc Xỉu: Milk-forward, light coffee flavor, more of a dessert drink.
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Cà Phê Sữa Đá: Coffee-forward, bold and strong, balanced with sweetness.
Conclusion:Whether you choose the milky comfort of Bạc xỉu or the bold punch of cà phê sữa đá, both are delicious ways to enjoy Vietnam’s unique coffee culture.👉 Shop Vietnamese phin filters and coffee on Amazon →Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.