Skip the Chemicals—Make This Cozy DIY Vienna Coffee Mix Instead
There’s something irresistibly comforting about a rich, creamy cup of Vienna coffee. That contrast of bold coffee and velvety cream is exactly what you need on a slow morning, a chilly afternoon, or when you just want to treat yourself to something cozy. But if you’ve ever looked at the ingredients in store-bought coffee mixes, it’s enough to make you spit out your sip. Hydrogenated oils, mystery flavorings, corn syrup solids… no thanks.
This DIY Vienna Coffee Mix is made from real, recognizable ingredients—no fake creamer, no junky additives. Just smooth instant coffee, creamy powdered milk, real sugar, rich cocoa, and a hint of spice and vanilla for warmth. It stirs up beautifully, travels well in a jar, and makes the perfect homemade gift or pantry staple. And best of all, it takes about five minutes to make.
☕ A Sip of Nostalgia: Remember the Tins?
If the words Vienna Coffee spark a warm memory, you’re not alone. Back in the 1970s, General Foods released a line of instant flavored coffee mixes called General Foods International Coffees—and one of the most beloved was Café Vienna. It came in a small tin and offered a sweet, creamy, spiced coffee experience that felt a little fancy… even if you were just drinking it at your kitchen table in a polyester robe.
Later rebranded as Maxwell House International, these café-style blends are still around today—but many of us remember that original tin with a touch of nostalgia (and maybe a little too much powdered sweetness). This DIY version brings back the cozy flavor, without the additives.
Why Make It Yourself?
Most commercial mixes are made with:
Corn syrup solids
Artificial flavors
“Non-dairy creamer” full of seed oils and additives
And usually way too much sugar
When you make your own, you get to control every ingredient. I use real powdered milk, pure cane sugar, and Dutch-process cocoa to keep things simple, creamy, and delicious. Plus, it actually tastes like coffee—not just sweet brown powder.
DIY Powdered Vienna Coffee Mix
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup instant coffee granules
- 1/2 cup real powdered milk
- 6 tbsp powdered sugar (Florida Crystals if you’ve got it)
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/8 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp vanilla powder (or skip and add real vanilla extract to your mug when serving)
Instructions
- Combine:Add all ingredients to a bowl and stir until well mixed.
Optional – Make it ultra-smooth:
- Pulse in a blender or food processor for 15–20 seconds until the mixture is fine and uniform. This helps it dissolve faster and gives it that creamy, café texture.
- Store:Pour into a small airtight jar or tin. Label and date it.
To Serve:
- Add 2–3 tablespoons of mix to a mug.Pour in 6–8 oz of hot water.Stir well.Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa or cinnamon if you’re feeling fancy.