If you have a sweet tooth and love rich, creamy coffee drinks, the Spanish Café Bombón is a must-try. Known for its decadent simplicity, Café Bombón combines bold espresso with luscious sweetened condensed milk for a dessert-like treat that’s easy to make at home.
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This guide will walk you through how to make Spanish Café Bombón step by step, using simple ingredients and minimal equipment. You’ll also learn tips for serving it just like they do in Spain.
What Is Café Bombón?
Café Bombón originated in Valencia, Spain, and quickly became popular across the country. It’s famous for its beautiful layered appearance and indulgent sweetness.
This drink typically consists of:
- One part strong espresso or concentrated coffee
- One part sweetened condensed milk
The combination creates a rich, velvety beverage that’s perfect as a post-meal dessert coffee or an afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making Café Bombón requires just two simple ingredients:
- Freshly brewed espresso (about 1 shot or 30 ml)
- Sweetened condensed milk (about 30 ml, or adjust to taste)
Optional garnish ideas:
- Cocoa powder
- Cinnamon
- Shaved chocolate
Equipment You’ll Need
- Espresso machine, moka pot, AeroPress, or Nespresso
- Heatproof glass cup (clear glasses show the signature layered look)
- Spoon for layering and stirring
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Café Bombón at Home
Step 1: Brew Your Espresso
Start by brewing a fresh shot of espresso. You’ll want a strong, concentrated coffee base to balance the sweetness of the condensed milk.
If you don’t have an espresso machine, you can use a moka pot, AeroPress, or a high-quality Nespresso machine to achieve a rich, bold coffee.
Step 2: Pour Sweetened Condensed Milk
In a small glass cup, pour the sweetened condensed milk first. This layer should sit at the bottom. Typically, you’ll use equal parts condensed milk and coffee, but you can adjust based on your taste preference.
The sweetened condensed milk’s thick texture helps it stay at the bottom, creating a layered effect.
Step 3: Gently Add the Espresso
Slowly pour the hot espresso over the back of a spoon or down the side of the glass to create a clean separation between the layers. Pouring slowly is key to keeping the condensed milk and coffee distinct.
You should see two clear layers:
- A rich, dark espresso layer on top
- A creamy, golden condensed milk layer on the bottom
Step 4: Serve and Stir
Café Bombón is traditionally served with a small spoon. To enjoy it, stir the two layers together before drinking to blend the sweet, creamy base with the strong coffee.
The result is a velvety, smooth drink with intense sweetness and rich coffee flavor.
Tips for the Perfect Café Bombón
- Use high-quality espresso beans for a smoother taste
- Adjust the ratio of condensed milk to coffee to suit your sweetness preference
- Always pour the espresso slowly to preserve the layers before stirring
- Serve in a clear glass cup to showcase the beautiful layers
- For an extra treat, sprinkle a little cocoa powder or cinnamon on top
Variations to Try
Iced Café Bombón
Brew espresso and let it cool slightly. Pour it over condensed milk and ice for a refreshing, sweet iced coffee.
Vegan Café Bombón
Use coconut condensed milk as a dairy-free alternative for a tropical twist.
Café Bombón Latte
Mix equal parts condensed milk and espresso, then top with steamed milk or frothed plant-based milk for a creamier latte-style drink.
Why You Should Try Making Café Bombón
Café Bombón is more than just a sweet coffee—it’s an experience. Its rich, dessert-like taste makes it ideal for:
- After-dinner coffee
- Weekend brunch treats
- Sweet afternoon pick-me-ups
- Impressing guests with minimal effort
Plus, it requires no special barista skills, making it a perfect starter recipe for home coffee enthusiasts.
Final Thoughts
If you love rich, sweet coffee drinks, Café Bombón is sure to become a favorite. With its creamy texture, bold flavor, and stunning layers, it’s a delightful way to enjoy coffee at home.
All you need is strong espresso and sweetened condensed milk to create this iconic Spanish treat in minutes.
