Café Bombón is a deliciously sweet and creamy Spanish coffee made with equal parts espresso and condensed milk. The contrast between strong coffee and rich, sweet milk creates a beautifully layered drink that’s both indulgent and simple to prepare.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to make authentic Café Bombón at home, plus variations and expert tips.
1. What Is Café Bombón?
✔️ Originated in Spain, particularly popular in Valencia.
✔️ Made with 1 part espresso and 1 part condensed milk.
✔️ Served in a small glass to showcase its stunning layers.
✔️ Naturally sweet and rich, requiring no extra sugar.
💡 Fun Fact: The name “Bombón” means “candy” or “sweet treat” in Spanish!
2. Ingredients for Café Bombón
✔️ 1 shot of espresso (30ml / 1 oz)
✔️ 1 shot (30ml / 1 oz) of sweetened condensed milk
💡 Pro Tip: Use dark roast coffee beans for a bold, intense flavor that balances the sweetness.
3. Step-by-Step Guide to Making Café Bombón
Step 1: Prepare the Glass
- Use a small, clear glass to highlight the beautiful coffee layers.
Step 2: Add the Condensed Milk
- Pour 1 shot (30ml) of sweetened condensed milk into the bottom of the glass.
💡 Pro Tip: Do not stir—let the layers stay separate for a true café-style look!
Step 3: Brew & Pour the Espresso
1️⃣ Brew one shot of espresso (30ml / 1 oz) using an espresso machine, Moka pot, or AeroPress.
2️⃣ Slowly pour the espresso over the back of a spoon to create a distinct layered effect.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
- Traditionally, Café Bombón is served unstirred, so you can mix it yourself before drinking.
- Stir just before sipping to blend the sweet condensed milk with the espresso.
💡 For an extra Spanish touch: Serve with a biscuit or churro! 🇪🇸
4. Café Bombón Variations to Try
🔥 Iced Café Bombón – Pour the drink over ice for a refreshing twist.
🔥 Coconut Bombón – Use coconut condensed milk for a tropical flavor.
🔥 Mocha Bombón – Add a teaspoon of cocoa powder for a chocolatey kick.
🔥 Nutty Bombón – Drizzle with hazelnut or almond syrup.
5. Best Coffee Beans for Café Bombón
✔️ Dark roast espresso beans – Best for a strong, intense flavor.
✔️ Spanish espresso blends – Rich and bold, perfect for this style.
✔️ Colombian or Brazilian beans – Smooth, slightly sweet notes complement condensed milk.
💡 Pro Tip: A highly concentrated espresso shot enhances the coffee-to-milk contrast.
6. Tips for the Best Café Bombón Experience
✔️ Use high-quality espresso to balance the sweetness of condensed milk.
✔️ Pour slowly to maintain the beautiful two-layer effect.
✔️ Drink immediately after mixing for the best taste.
✔️ Experiment with different milks like oat or almond condensed milk for dairy-free options.
Final Thoughts
Café Bombón is a sweet, creamy, and visually stunning Spanish coffee drink that’s easy to make at home. Whether you enjoy it hot, iced, or flavored, it’s a delightful way to indulge in a rich, dessert-like coffee experience. ☕🍮✨