Kopi Susu
Beverages • Indonesia
About Kopi Susu
Coffee with sweetened condensed milk
How to Make Kopi Susu (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Kopi Susu is a beloved Indonesian beverage that seamlessly blends the robust flavors of local coffee with the creamy sweetness of milk. Originating from traditional warungs (coffee stalls) across the Indonesian archipelago, Kopi Susu is an essential part of daily life, offering a comforting pick-me-up at any time of day. This drink is characterized by its well-balanced taste, where the boldness of freshly brewed coffee meets the smooth, slightly sweet profile of milk—often sweetened condensed milk, but our healthy version uses low-fat or plant-based milk and a touch of natural sweetener. Indonesians cherish Kopi Susu for its ability to bring people together, whether during a morning ritual or an afternoon chat with friends. The preparation process itself is a cultural experience, often involving a slow pour-over method that highlights the aromatic coffee beans native to Indonesia. Choosing Kopi Susu allows you to savor a piece of Indonesian culture with every sip, while also enjoying a healthier, lower-calorie twist perfect for calorie-conscious coffee lovers worldwide.
Ingredients(for 1 medium glass (approx. 200 ml))
- 3 tablespoons Freshly ground Indonesian coffee (e.g., Robusta or Arabica)
- 1 cup (240 ml) Low-fat milk (Can substitute with unsweetened soy or almond milk)
- 1.5 cups (360 ml) Hot water (Near boiling)
- 1-2 teaspoons Palm sugar (Gula aren; adjust to taste)
- 1 small stick Cinnamon stick (Optional, for aroma) - optional
- 1/4 teaspoon Vanilla extract (Optional) - optional
- as needed Ice cubes (For iced Kopi Susu) - optional
- 1/8 teaspoon Pinch of salt (To balance flavor) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Boil water until just below boiling point. Place ground Indonesian coffee in a French press or a coffee filter.
3 minutes
Use freshly ground beans for the most authentic aroma.
- 2
Slowly pour hot water over coffee grounds and let it steep for 4-5 minutes.
5 minutes
Letting coffee bloom brings out its full flavor.
- 3
In a small saucepan, gently heat low-fat milk with palm sugar, stirring until fully dissolved. Add cinnamon stick and vanilla extract if using.
5 minutes
Do not boil the milk; just warm it to blend with coffee smoothly.
- 4
Remove cinnamon stick. Add a pinch of salt to the milk mixture to enhance the sweetness naturally.
1 minute
A little salt reduces the need for extra sweetener.
Why This Dish is Healthy
Choosing this version of Kopi Susu means you enjoy the iconic Indonesian flavor with less sugar and fat. By swapping sweetened condensed milk with low-fat or unsweetened plant-based milk and using natural sweetener, you significantly reduce calories and added sugars. This makes it suitable for calorie trackers, weight management, and balanced diets, while retaining authentic taste and cultural value.
This healthy Kopi Susu recipe provides antioxidants from locally sourced coffee, which may help reduce inflammation and support brain health. By using low-fat milk or a plant-based alternative, the drink supplies protein, calcium, and vitamin D while keeping saturated fat and calories in check. Palm sugar, used in moderation, delivers a lower glycemic index than refined sugar, and a pinch of salt naturally enhances sweetness without excess calories. This beverage contains minimal fat, moderate carbs, and can be adapted for various dietary needs.
Pro Tips
- 💡Use freshly ground Indonesian beans for authentic flavor.
- 💡Warm the milk gently—overheating can cause it to curdle.
- 💡Layering the milk and coffee creates a beautiful visual effect.
Storage & Serving
Kopi Susu is best enjoyed fresh. If you need to store it, refrigerate for up to 24 hours in a sealed container. Stir well before serving cold. Do not freeze.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 110.0 kcal |
| Protein | 2.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18.0 g |
| Total Fat | 3.0 g |
| Fiber | 0.0 g |
