If you like your espresso coffee to have a touch of sweetness, but want something a little different to the common options available, it’s worth considering Café Bombon. This espresso-based drink originated in Spain, but what exactly is it, how can you make it at home, and how is it served?
Read on and you’ll learn the answers to all of those questions – and more – including which similarities it shares with other beverages and the history of this coffee drink.
I made a short video showing you how to make this delicious Spanish coffee drink:
Key Takeaways
- The drink originated in Spain’s Costa del Azahar, and gained popularity in Valencia[1]
- Café Bombon is made with espresso and sweetened condensed milk
- The flavor of the drink combines bitter and sweet notes for a gorgeous balance
- The beverage is usually served in a small glass to observe its layers
- You can add foam to create a third layer
What Is Café Bombon?
Café Bombon is an espresso-based drink popular in Spain that combines a strong espresso shot with sweetened condensed milk. It is typically served in a glass cup to showcase the stunning layers the milk, coffee and foam create in the beverage.
After observing the beautiful visual appeal of the drink, it’s then customary to stir it and then enjoy the gorgeous, balanced taste of espresso cut with a satisfying sweetness, making it an interesting and flavorful option for coffee lovers interested in trying something different.
Key Takeaways
- The drink originated in Spain’s Costa del Azahar, and gained popularity in Valencia[1]
- Café Bombon is made with espresso and sweetened condensed milk
- The flavor of the drink combines bitter and sweet notes for a gorgeous balance
- The beverage is usually served in a small glass to observe its layers
- You can add foam to create a third layer
Origins And History Of Café Bombon
Café Bombón originated in Costa del Azahar in Spain and eventually became popular in nearby Valencia in the early 20th century. The name “bombón” means “candy” in Spanish, which alludes to it sweet and decadent flavor. Perhaps unsurprisingly given its stunning visual appeal and delectable sweetness, the drink eventually became popular throughout the country.
Meanwhile, although still relatively rare elsewhere, it is now also available in some outlets throughout Europe, while similar drinks can even be found in the Far East.
How To Make A Café Bombon
Equipment:
- Espresso machine or Moka pot – each option is ideal for making the espresso required of authentic Café Bombon.
- Grinder – it’s always better to use freshly ground beans, and a good ceramic burr grinder is essential to produce the correct consistency.
- Glass – Take my word for it – this is essential as the distinct layers of the drink are gorgeous and you’ll want to see them.
- Steam wand (optional) – you can add froth to the top of your drink for a third layer which makes it even more visually appealing.
Ingredients:
- 1 shot of espresso
- 1 ounce of sweetened condensed milk
- Water
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare Sweentened Condensed Milk
Pour the sweetened condensed milk into a clear glass.
Step 2: Prepare Espresso
Pull a shot of espresso using an espresso machine. Alternatively, make an espresso using a Moka pot.
Carefully pour the shot of espresso over the condensed milk. The espresso should slowly mix with the milk, creating a beautiful layered effect.
Step 3: Optional Steamed Milk
For an extra layer, use a steam wand to create milk foam, but add extra air as you steam. Then, spoon the foam on top of the drink.
Step 4: Stir and Serve
Serve the Café Bombon with a small spoon, which is used to mix the layers together and create a consistent flavor throughout.
Cafe Bombon Recipe
Equipment
- Espresso maker or Moka pot or any other coffee maker that makes strong coffee
- Coffee Grinder
- Short glass 2-4 fl.oz
- Steam wand or milk frother
Ingredients
- 1 shot espresso
- 1 oz sweetened condensed milk
- 1 dollop steamed milk optional
Instructions
- Pour sweetened condensed milk into a clear glass.
- Brew a shot of espresso.
- Gently pour the espresso over the condensed milk.
- Steam milk and spoon foam over the top (optional).
- Stir with small spoon.
Notes
Nutrition
Other Drinks Made With Espresso And Sweetened Condensed Milk
Previously we also shared the coffee recipes that use the two key ingredients of Café Bombon. You can try them if you are interested in sweetened coffee.
Vietnamese Coffee
Vietnamese coffee, like Cafe Bombon, uses sweetened condensed milk, but this time, the coffee is made by brewing coarsely ground beans in a phin filter, which slowly drips the coffee into a glass with the condensed milk. The beverage is rich and creamy with a bold coffee flavor and a sweet finish. Check out the Vietnamese coffee recipe here.
Spanish Latte
Spanish latte – or café con leche – is a drink containing espresso, scalded whole milk and sweetened condensed milk or sugar. It differs from Café Bombon both in the addition of whole milk and the fact it is a mixed drink rather than a layered coffee. The drink more closely resembles a regular latte, albeit with a greater volume of milk.
Check out the Spanish Latte recipe here.
FAQs
In this section, we will answer some common questions about Café Bombon.
Where did Cafe Bombon originate?
The drink became popular in the early 20th century in the Spanish city of Valencia. However, it originated in Costa del Azahar, around 50 miles north of the city. Gradually, it became widely consumed throughout the country, and nowadays, it can be found around the world.
What is the other name for Café Bombon?
On Spain’s Canary Islands, the beverage is sold as Café Canario and widely available throughout the islands. It is sometimes served with cinnamon and lemon zest. A variation is Barraquito Coffee, which offers an alcoholic twist on the beverage with a drink called Licor 43.
Final Thoughts
Café Bombon is an excellent option for anyone with a sweet tooth who wants to try a simple alternative to common sweetened espresso-based drinks.
Not only that, but, thanks to its layers, the beverage is visually stunning, and it’s a regular on my list to impress guests because it looks seriously impressive considering how easy it is to make.
You can also add your own twists to the drink. So, consider adding cinnamon or even a liqueur to act as a beautiful after-dinner drink.
Overall, considering it’s easy to make, versatile, looks stunning and tastes delicious, I’m confident that Café Bombon could soon become one of your favorite beverages when you fancy something a little different.
