Discover how to make a magic coffee

What is a magic coffee, you ask? Magic coffee is an emerging favorite in the global coffee scene, especially among those who appreciate a robust yet balanced cup. Unlike traditional espresso-based drinks, magic coffee is crafted with a double ristretto shot, which is an espresso variation that uses the same amount of ground coffee but less water, resulting in a more concentrated and intense flavor profile. This concentrated shot is then combined with a small amount of steamed milk, creating a beverage that is both strong and smooth, with a hint of sweetness from the ristretto's fruity notes.

The milk is typically steamed to a minimal foam, which complements the bold espresso without overpowering it, making magic coffeea distinct choice for those who enjoy a strong coffee without the bitterness.

One of the key characteristics that set magic coffeeapart is its flavor profile, which is often described as bold yet balanced. The use of ristretto gives magic coffee a more pronounced fruitiness and acidity compared to other espresso drinks, making it appealing to those who enjoy complex coffee flavors.

Additionally, the precise control over the amount of milk and foam allows for a perfect harmony between the rich, concentrated espresso and the silky texture of the milk, making every sip a delightful experience.

The original magic coffee hails from Melbourne, Australia, where it was created as a specialty espresso drink designed to offer a stronger and more concentrated flavor than a regular flat white. This version uses a double ristretto shot, pulled from an espresso machine with finely ground coffee to yield a bold and fruity espresso base. It’s then combined with steamed milk that has minimal foam, resulting in a drink that’s velvety yet intense. Melbourne itself has popularized various  types of australian coffee, making it a hub for coffee enthusiasts.

Melbourne Magic is served in a smaller cup, typically between 4 to 5 ounces, to maintain that perfect strength and richness that coffee lovers crave. If you’re wondering what’s a magic coffee that stands apart for its robust flavor and elegant balance, Melbourne Magic is the choice to explore.

An entirely different kind of magic coffee has risen to fame globally through social media: Dalgona coffee. Unlike the Melbourne Magic’s espresso base, Dalgona coffee is made by whipping together instant coffee, sugar, and hot water until a thick, creamy foam develops. This fluffy coffee foam is then spooned generously on top of cold or hot milk, creating a visually striking and sweet drink.

The appeal of Dalgona lies not only in its creamy texture and mild coffee flavor but also in the fun of whipping the foam to the perfect consistency at home. It’s less about the espresso and more about the light, airy magic foam that makes drinking coffee an experience. Whether enjoyed iced or warm, this type of magic coffee offers a unique sensory delight that's quite different from the powerful Melbourne-style.

To make an authentic Melbourne Magic coffee, you’ll need a handful of essential ingredients and tools that ensure the perfect brew. Start with fresh, high-quality coffee beans, ideally a blend or single-origin that offers rich notes like chocolate, nuts, or berries. These are often referred to as the  best coffee beans for achieving the bold and balanced flavor profile that magic coffee is known for. A coffee grinder capable of fine, consistent grinding is essential to prepare the coffee grounds needed for a double ristretto shot.

Next, an espresso machine with a good steaming wand will let you pull the double ristretto and steam your milk to silky perfection, with just a hint of microfoam.

Don’t forget the right size cup—a small glass or ceramic cup around 140 to 160ml (roughly 5 ounces) is ideal for your magic coffee, balancing the concentrated espresso and milk perfectly. A milk jug for steaming and pouring, plus a tamper to compress your coffee grounds evenly, will help you get that professional finish. For those wanting precision, kitchen scales and a timer can also be helpful to maintain consistent quality each time you brew .

Creating Dalgona coffee is less reliant on espresso-based tools and focuses more on simple kitchen equipment and accessible ingredients. You’ll need instant coffee powder—the key to whipping up that signature fluffy foam—along with sugar and hot water in equal parts.

A whisk, electric mixer, or even a milk frother will help you achieve the thick, creamy whipped coffee topping.

Once your coffee foam is ready, pour it over a glass filled with cold or hot milk, depending on your preference. Unlike Melbourne Magic, Dalgona coffee doesn’t require an espresso machine or grinder, making it a great option if you want to enjoy a magical coffee experience without specialized tools .

To craft the iconic Melbourne Magic coffee, start by cleaning your espresso machine’s group head for a fresh extraction. Next, prepare a double ristretto shot by using finely ground coffee and cutting the espresso extraction short to about 40ml—this concentrated shot brings out the fruity and intense flavors you want. While your double ristretto is pouring, steam your milk to a silky texture with just a thin layer of microfoam, similar to what you would use for a flat white, but avoid making it too hot or frothy.

Pour the steamed milk gently into your 5-ounce cup containing the double ristretto, maintaining close to a 50-50 ratio of milk to espresso. For those with a bit of flair, a light touch of latte art on top can finish your magical creation. This balance delivers a smooth, strong, and beautifully textured coffee experience that’s both easy to drink and packed with flavor .

Creating Dalgona coffee is a simple and fun process that doesn’t require an espresso machine. Begin by mixing equal parts of instant coffee, sugar, and hot water.

Use a whisk, electric mixer, or milk frother to whip the mixture vigorously until it forms a thick, creamy foam with stiff peaks—a process that takes about 3 to 5 minutes. Once your coffee foam is ready, prepare a glass with cold or warm milk, then spoon or pour the fluffy whipped coffee over the milk to create a layered effect.

The result is a visually appealing, sweet, and frothy coffee drink that’s light on bitterness and easy to customize with toppings like cocoa powder or flavored syrups. This approach offers a magic coffee experience that’s quick, playful, and perfect for those who prefer a creamy coffee treat over a strong espresso base .

Mastering the art of making magic coffee, whether it's Melbourne Magic or Dalgona, requires some finesse and attention to detail. For Melbourne Magic, one of the key tips is to use freshly ground coffee beans to ensure the most vibrant flavors in your double ristretto shots.

It's also important to maintain a consistent grind size—slightly finer than standard espresso grind—and to tamp the grounds firmly to allow for even extraction. Paying attention to the ratio of espresso to milk is essential, as this balance is what truly makes magic coffee special. Aiming for about a 50-50 ratio will ensure that the coffee isn't overwhelmed by milk, yet still retains its velvety texture.

For steaming milk, expert baristas recommend heating it to around 60-65°C to avoid scalding, which can result in a bitter taste. The goal is to achieve a silky microfoam that will blend seamlessly with the espresso, creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. Practicing the technique of pouring the milk can also add a touch of artistry to your magic coffee, allowing you to create beautiful latte art patterns on top.

When it comes to Dalgona coffee, mastering the whipping process is essential for achieving that perfect fluffy foam. Using the right proportions of instant coffee, sugar, and water is key.

Whipping the mixture until it forms stiff peaks is important for creating the desired texture and height. Experimenting with different types of milk or flavorings can also add variety to your Dalgona creations, making it a fun and versatile coffee treat to enjoy at home .

Once you've brewed your magic coffee, it's time to savor every sip of your hard work. For Melbourne Magic, the key to fully enjoying this drink is appreciating the balance between the strong, fruity flavors of the double ristretto and the smooth, creamy texture of the steamed milk.

Take a moment to inhale the rich aroma before you taste, as this enhances the experience. Since it’s served in a smaller cup, each sip is concentrated and satisfying, perfect for those who want a stronger coffee without bitterness.

With Dalgona coffee, the enjoyment goes beyond taste—it's an experience of texture and appearance. Revel in the contrast between the airy, velvety foam and the cool or warm milk beneath.

Stirring the layers just before drinking lets the sweet coffee blend evenly with the milk, making each sip delightfully smooth. This drink offers a more playful, dessert-like coffee moment, ideal for unwinding or impressing friends with its whipped magic.

No matter which magic coffee you choose, pairing it with complementary treats like buttery pastries, dark chocolate, or lightly spiced snacks can elevate the flavors and make your coffee break feel truly special. Enjoy your magical creation slowly and mindfully to appreciate the skill and technique that went into making this signature coffee experience.

Come on in and feel the welcoming warmth of L’Anse French Café, where every cup tells a story of passion and craftsmanship. Nestled in the heart of Port Lincoln, our café blends the authentic taste of France with the relaxed Australian lifestyle — a place where locals and travelers meet to share a moment of comfort, flavor, and joy.

Take a seat, breathe in the aroma of freshly ground coffee, and treat yourself to our signature Magic Coffee — a velvety blend of espresso, silky milk, and a touch of magic that melts on your tongue. It’s more than just a drink — it’s an experience, a pause in your day to savour something truly special.

Pair your Magic Coffee with one of our buttery croissants, a slice of our famous French cheesecake, or a warm pain au chocolat baked fresh each morning by our chefs. Whether you’re catching up with friends, taking a break from work, or exploring the best of South Australia, this is your invitation to slow down and taste the French art of living.

Come on in L’Anse French Café — for a delicious Magic Coffee and a moment of pure happiness.