Cold brew season is here, and you know what that means—time to get your foam on.
Cold foam is the silky, sassy topper that turns any iced coffee into something special. It’s creamy but light, sweet but not over-the-top, and somehow makes every sip feel like a treat. Whether you’re working with a milk frother, a mason jar, or just some old-fashioned elbow grease, we’ve got you covered.
This guide breaks down all the ways you can make cold foam at home—fancy gadgets optional.
☁️ What Even Is Cold Foam?
Cold foam is like the crown jewel of an iced coffee. It’s frothed milk (dairy or plant-based) that’s whipped until thick and pillowy, but still pourable. Think: latte foam, but cold. You spoon it over your cold brew or iced latte and it floats on top like a little cloud, slowly melting into the drink as you sip.
It's not whipped cream. It’s not steamed milk. It’s somewhere in the middle—and it’s magic.
🧋 Why Cold Foam + Cold Brew = Besties
Cold foam is made for cold brew. The bold, smooth base of cold brew pairs perfectly with the light sweetness and texture of cold foam. It’s a match made in coffee heaven—especially if you use one of our Java Momma Cold Brew Pods and top it with something like Marshmallow Cold Foam or White Chocolate Cold Foam.
🧃 Basic Cold Foam Recipe
- ½ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1–2 tsp sweetener (maple syrup, simple syrup, vanilla syrup, etc.)
- Optional: splash of flavor (vanilla, white chocolate, marshmallow, cinnamon, etc.)
Tip: Use cold milk for best results. Toss everything together and pick your frothing method below.
🌀 How to Froth Milk (Choose Your Own Adventure)
1. Frothing Machine with Cold Foam Setting
If you’ve got a countertop frothing machine with a cold setting, this is your best bet. Just pour in your milk and flavoring, press the cold foam button, and let it work its magic.
2. Handheld Frother
Combine your ingredients in a tall glass and froth for 20–30 seconds until fluffy and thick. Easy, fast, and great texture.
3. French Press Method
Pour milk into a French press (no more than halfway), then pump the plunger up and down vigorously for 30–45 seconds. Watch it fluff up like magic.
Why we love it: Creamy texture and dense foam without extra tools.
4. Mason Jar Shake
Pour milk and extras into a jar, seal it tight, and shake it like a polaroid picture (30–60 seconds). Foam will be softer but still tasty.
5. Blender or Immersion Blender
Add ingredients to a blender or cup with an immersion blender and blend on high until thick and frothy. Great for making a batch or getting that smooth finish.
6. Whisk It by Hand
No gear? No problem. Use a whisk and bowl and whip that milk until it’s light and airy. Arm workout included.
🌿 Can You Use Non-Dairy Milk for Cold Foam?
Heck yes. Just pick the right one—and maybe test a couple brands.
Best Non-Dairy Options:
- Oat Milk: Creamy, sweet, and foams beautifully. Barista fave for a reason.
- Soy Milk: High in protein, reliable foamer, neutral taste.
- Almond Milk: Light and nutty, but foam can be delicate.
- Coconut Milk: Tropical, creamy, but may need stabilizers for good foam.
- Cashew Milk: Smooth and mellow, with a soft texture when frothed.
Tips for Frothing Non-Dairy:
- Use cold milk—warmer temps won’t foam as well.
- Look for “barista” versions with stabilizers for best texture.
- Try adding a pinch of salt to balance and boost sweetness.
🍭 Want to Try a Flavor?
We’ve already created a few cold foam favorites for you to try on your next brew:
- Marshmallow Cold Foam – Like a campfire treat in your cup.
- Vanilla Cold Foam – A classic, smooth and sweet.
- White Chocolate Cold Foam – Creamy, dreamy indulgence.
- Cherry Cold Foam - Next level yum.
More flavors coming soon—because we can’t stop, won’t stop experimenting with foam.
☕ Final Foam Thoughts
Cold foam turns any iced drink into a café-style treat—without needing a barista or a blender the size of your head. Whether you’re frothing, shaking, plunging, or whisking, there’s a method here that fits your vibe.
Start simple, get creative, and let your next cold brew live its best life. And if you discover a wild new flavor combo? Share it with us. We’re always up for a good foam story.
