How Many Calories Are in a Vietnamese Egg Coffee?

December 2, 2025 •

3 min read

The average cup of Vietnamese egg coffee contains between 250 and 350 calories. This rich beverage was created in Hanoi during the French Indochina War due to a milk shortage. The exact caloric count depends heavily on the preparation method and the quantity of sweetened condensed milk and egg yolk used.

Quick Summary

Vietnamese egg coffee typically ranges from 250 to 350 calories, impacted by components like egg yolk and sweetened condensed milk. The drink's nutritional content varies based on the recipe and portion size.

Key Points

High-Calorie Dessert: A Vietnamese egg coffee can contain 250–350 calories.
Ingredient Breakdown: Calories come from egg yolk (55–65 kcal) and sweetened condensed milk (60–70 kcal per 2 tbsp).
Varying Counts: Total calories depend on portion size, amount of condensed milk, and additions like sugar or butter.
Moderation is Key: Egg coffee is best as an occasional treat.
Lighter Options: Reduce calories by using less condensed milk, smaller servings, or a lightened recipe.
Nutritional Benefits: The egg yolk contributes protein, healthy fats, and vitamins.

Decoding the Calories in a Vietnamese Egg Coffee

Vietnamese egg coffee (cà phê trứng) is a creamy treat that combines coffee with a dessert. Its composition of strong Vietnamese robusta coffee topped with whisked egg yolk and sweetened condensed milk contributes to its high-calorie content. Understanding the calorie breakdown can help in making informed choices.

The Key Calorie Contributors

Several ingredients contribute to the calorie count of a Vietnamese egg coffee. The base black coffee has only 2–5 calories per cup. The creamy topping is where the calories come from.

Egg Yolk: A single large egg yolk adds approximately 55–65 calories. It provides healthy fats and protein, which create the texture.

Sweetened Condensed Milk: Two tablespoons can contain 60–70 calories. Many recipes call for more than this, and some use sweetened condensed milk in the coffee base.

Sugar: Adding extra sugar can add 20 calories or more per teaspoon.

Variable Calorie Ranges

Recipes for Vietnamese egg coffee can differ widely, and the total calorie count can fall into a broad range, from roughly 175 kcal up to over 300 kcal per serving. Factors that influence the final number include:

Portion Size: A larger cup means more of every ingredient.
Condensed Milk: Using more condensed milk will increase the calorie and sugar content.
Optional Additions: Some cafes might add butter or cheese to the mix. At-home recipes might also include additions like vanilla extract.

Comparison of Coffee Drinks

Here is a comparison with other popular coffee beverages. This can help you decide how to best enjoy this rich indulgence.


Drink	Approximate Calories (Serving Size Varies)	Key Calorie Sources
Black Coffee	2–5 calories	Negligible
Cappuccino (8oz)	~120 calories	Milk/Cream
Vietnamese Iced Coffee (Cà Phê Sữa Đá)	150–200 calories	Sweetened Condensed Milk
Caramel Macchiato (12oz)	250–300 calories	Milk, Caramel Syrup
Vietnamese Egg Coffee (Cà Phê Trứng)	175–350 calories	Egg Yolk, Condensed Milk
Frappuccino	400–500+ calories	Cream, Syrup, Sugar

Cà phê trứng often has more calories than many modern dessert-like coffee drinks. It is more calorically dense than cà phê sữa đá and a simple black coffee.

A Health-Conscious Approach to Egg Coffee

Vietnamese egg coffee offers nutritional benefits from the egg yolk, including protein, healthy fats, and vitamins like A and B12. However, its high sugar content from the condensed milk means it should be enjoyed in moderation. Options for mindful consumption include:

Reduce Condensed Milk: Use less sweetened condensed milk and opt for a smaller amount of sugar or a calorie-free sweetener.
Adjust Portion Size: A smaller version allows you to get the full flavor with fewer calories.
Use Lightened Ingredients: Substitute regular sweetened condensed milk with a lower-sugar version.
Make it at Home: Preparing egg coffee at home gives you control over the ingredients and portion sizes.

How to make a low-calorie version at home

Brew a strong cup of Vietnamese coffee using a phin filter or espresso machine.
In a separate bowl, whisk one large pasteurized egg yolk until light and foamy.
Add one teaspoon of a light condensed milk substitute or stevia to the egg mixture.
Whisk until it reaches a meringue-like consistency.
Gently pour the egg cream on top of the brewed coffee.
Serve the cup in a small bowl of hot water to keep it warm and help cook the egg further.

These steps allow you to enjoy a delicious Vietnamese egg coffee with a lighter calorie load. It can be adapted to fit different dietary preferences without losing its charm.

Conclusion

A Vietnamese egg coffee is a rich treat, but its ingredients make it a high-calorie beverage, averaging between 250 and 350 calories per serving. These calories come from sweetened condensed milk and egg yolk. Enjoying it in moderation or modifying the recipe at home allows you to manage your caloric intake. Whether you choose the traditional indulgent version or a lighter alternative, the experience remains a testament to Vietnam's creative coffee culture.

For more information, explore resources like the Nguyen Coffee Supply website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Vietnamese egg coffee, or cà phê trứng, is a Hanoi specialty made by whisking egg yolk with sweetened condensed milk into a rich, creamy froth, then layering it on top of strong, dark Vietnamese robusta coffee.

The high calorie count is primarily due to the sweetened condensed milk and egg yolk used to create the creamy, dessert-like topping. These ingredients are calorie-dense and rich in sugar and fat.

Yes, when prepared correctly, it is safe to consume. The egg is cooked by whisking it vigorously and serving it with hot coffee, which reduces the risk of bacteria like salmonella.

You can make a lighter version by reducing the amount of sweetened condensed milk, using a lower-sugar substitute, or controlling the portion size. Homemade preparation gives you complete control over the ingredients.

A standard Vietnamese egg coffee (250–350 kcal) generally has more calories than a typical 8oz cappuccino or latte (around 120 kcal), but fewer than very large or dessert-style Frappuccinos.

It has a unique taste often described as a liquid tiramisu or custard dessert. The creamy, slightly sweet egg foam balances the bitterness of the robusta coffee, creating a complex and decadent flavor.

Yes, the egg yolk adds some nutritional value, providing protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins like A and B12. However, the high sugar content means it should be seen as an indulgent treat rather than a health drink.