How to Make Cold Foam at Home (Using a Milk Frother)

Cold foam has taken over the coffee world, and for good reason! In fact, the practice of adding milk to coffee has a rich history. In 1660, Dutch ambassador Johan Nieuhof observed the Chinese elite of the Qing Dynasty adding milk to their tea. Inspired, he experimented by adding whole milk to coffee, introducing a new way of enjoying the beverage that quickly spread across Europe. This innovation paved the way for the development of various milk-based coffee drinks we cherish today. 

Here’s the best part—you don’t have to visit a coffee shop to make it. With just a few simple ingredients and the right tools, you can make cold foam at home in 5 minutes or less!

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about cold foam—how it’s made, the best types of milk to use, a step-by-step recipe, and expert tips to achieve that perfect frothy consistency. Let’s get started!

What Is Cold Foam

Cold foam is exactly what it sounds like—a frothy, airy milk foam that’s made without steam or heat. Unlike the warm foam you get from a cappuccino, cold foam is whipped using air and is poured over cold coffee beverages, like cold brew or iced lattes.

The result? A smooth, meringue-like topping that slowly mixes into your drink, creating a rich, creamy texture with every sip. It’s super easy to make at home with a milk frother from Zulay Kitchen!

Best Milk for Cold Foam

Not all milk froths the same way. To get that airy, creamy consistency, here’s what works best:

• Skim Milk (Best Choice!) – Contains more protein, which helps create stable, thick foam that holds its shape longer.
• 2% Milk – Creates a creamier foam with slightly less volume than skim milk.
• Whole Milk – Richer, but doesn’t hold its foam as long as skim milk.
• Oat or Almond Milk (Dairy-Free Options) – Barista-style oat milk and almond milk work best for creating frothy, plant-based cold foam.

How to Make Cold Foam at Home

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 5 minutes

Servings: 1

Cold Foam Ingredients

• • ½ cup cold skim milk
  • 1 teaspoon sugar or simple syrup
  • ⅛ teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Pour the cold skim milk into a frothing pitcher or a tall acrylic glass. Add the sugar (or simple syrup) and vanilla extract for extra flavor.

Step 2: Froth the Milk

Use a milk frother and froth the milk for 30-60 seconds. Move the frother up and down to incorporate air and create a thick, creamy foam.

Step 3: Spoon Over Your Drink

Carefully spoon the cold foam over your iced coffee, matcha latte, or cold brew. Enjoy the smooth, creamy goodness!

Make Your Cold Foam Now!

Cold foam isn’t just a trend—it’s a game-changer for coffee lovers who want to bring a café-quality experience into their own kitchens. This simple yet luxurious topping adds silky texture and a touch of sweetness to any cold drink, making every sip feel indulgent. It takes just minutes to make with a milk frother and a handful of ingredients, proving that you don’t need a fancy coffee shop to enjoy your favorite beverages at their best.

We’d love to hear how your homemade cold foam turned out! Did you try a new twist or discover a creative way to use it? Leave a comment below and share your experience. And if you snap a photo of your coffee masterpiece, don’t forget to tag @zulay_kitchen with #kitchenhappiness—we can’t wait to see your creations!

Frequently Asked Questions About Making Cold Foam

Can I make cold foam without a milk frother?

Yes! While a milk frother is the easiest option, you can also use a French press by pumping the plunger rapidly or an immersion blender to aerate the milk. Shaking in a jar works too, but the results won’t be as smooth. A frother delivers the creamiest texture effortlessly.

What’s the difference between cold foam and whipped cream?

Cold foam is airy, light, and made from milk, creating a velvety layer on coffee. Whipped cream, on the other hand, is thicker, richer, and made from heavy cream and sugar, giving it a sweeter, denser consistency. Cold foam is the go-to for a subtle, creamy touch.

How long does cold foam last?

Cold foam is best when enjoyed immediately, as it holds its texture for about 20–30 minutes. However, if necessary, you can store it in the fridge for up to 2 hours. 

Can I use almond or oat milk to make cold foam?

Yes! Barista-style almond or oat milk is the best choice because it contains added stabilizers that help with frothing. Regular plant-based milks can work, but they may not create a stable foam. Soy milk is another great alternative for a smooth and creamy cold foam.

Can I add flavored syrups to cold foam?

Absolutely! You can mix in vanilla, caramel, hazelnut, or even seasonal flavors like pumpkin spice. Add about one teaspoon of syrup before frothing, or adjust to taste. 

Can I use whole milk instead of skim milk?

Yes, but the foam will be less airy and more creamy due to the higher fat content. Skim milk creates the most stable froth because of its higher protein content. If you prefer a richer texture, 2% milk is a great middle ground between skim and whole milk.

What drinks can I use cold foam on?

Cold foam pairs beautifully with cold brew, iced lattes, matcha lattes, chai tea, and even iced hot chocolate! It’s also great on fruit-infused iced teas for a creamy twist.