Bumble coffee was invented in 2001 by Roman Gordeev, a barista at Coffeemania. Roman named the drink so because its appearance evoked associations with a bumble bee. Sometimes bumble is called “orange coffee”.
Bumble Coffee is a very refreshing, summer drink, but with a distinct coffee flavor. The bright citrus freshness is tinged with the sweetness of caramel combined with coffee – all the components of this trio basically fit together perfectly.
How to prepare bumble coffee at home – original recipe with orange juice
Ingredients, what you need for preparation
- Ice – 6-8 cubes, 80-100 grams (similar to iced coffee preparation).
- Caramel syrup – 20 ml, 15-30 ml is acceptable to taste.
- Orange juice, preferably freshly squeezed – 100-120 ml.
- Double espresso – 30-50 ml.
- Tall glass cocktail glass.
- Horn coffee maker or espresso machine, at the extreme a turbo/jezzer or geyser coffee maker.

Here’s how to do it, step by step
Step 1
Place ice in a glass.
Step 2
Pour caramel syrup. In the original was 20 ml, but you can slightly increase or decrease its amount – it affects the final sweetness of the drink. I prefer less.
Step 3
Pour orange juice. 100-120 ml, but you can even more – to taste.
Step 4
If your glass fits under the dispenser of a coffee machine (if the glass is up to 14 cm high, 90% of it will fit) or coffee maker (which is rare), you can prepare a double espresso of 30-50 ml directly into the glass. If the utensil under the dispenser does not fit, then you will have to make coffee in an intermediate container. It is better if the container has a spout, for example, a regular pitcher – it will be easier to pour the espresso later, aiming a trickle at the ice cube and not disturbing the layering.
Bumble coffee is served like this, in layers, but stirred before drinking. So it’s worth using a cocktail spoon or, at the worst, a regular pipe.
The Internet often suggests pouring the syrup not first into the glass, but into an intermediate container in which to prepare espresso. Explaining this by the fact that, say, syrups dissolve poorly in cold drinks, and in coffee you do not even need to stir. But this entails a problem in the aesthetics of serving – syrup with coffee becomes heavier than juice and they sink to the bottom. While espresso without syrup is lighter, and stays on top, as it should be according to the canon.
If you do not have a coffee maker or coffee machine (brew strong coffee in a moka pot), you can replace it with a turba, but be sure to make it without sediment, suspension and foam. In this case, it is better to prepare oriental-style coffee twice as much – 80-100 ml, carefully remove the cap and at the last step pour half of the contents of the jezwa into the drink.
The balance of sweetness and acidity depends not only on the syrup used and its quantity. The juice itself also has an impact. Obviously, freshly squeezed or store-bought “direct-pressed” juice is more acidic and less sweet than some Rich or J7 reconstituted from concentrate.

Delicious and adequate variations of bumble coffee
Clearly, you can experiment however you like, but there are a few tried-and-true modifications that many people like better than the original recipe.
Remark: maverick bumble is a complete synonym for regular bumble coffee, it’s just that some coffee shops are so “distinguished” by the name.
The bumble has two vectors for experimentation:
Juice: instead of orange juice, you can use cherry juice (you get cherry bumble bee) or grapefruit juice.
Syrup: instead of caramel, maple syrup works perfectly. The final descriptors remain on the same plane, but seem a bit richer to me. You can shift the flavor into a more berry bouquet by substituting grenadine for the pomegranate syrup (plus brew espresso from washed Colombia, Ethiopia, or Kenya). Or you can add a coffee-nut neutrality by using a nut syrup (and brew the coffee in classic Brazil).
Variations of Bumble Coffee
While the original recipe is delightful, there are several exciting modifications you can try:
1. Cherry Bumble:
• Substitute orange juice with cherry juice for a sweeter profile.
• Consider adding chocolate syrup for an indulgent twist (add chocolate like in mocha).
2. Grapefruit Bumble:
• Replace orange juice with grapefruit juice for a tangier flavor.
3. Maple Syrup Variation:
• Use maple syrup instead of caramel syrup for a different sweetness dimension.
4. Nutty Bumble:
• Incorporate nut-flavored syrup (like hazelnut) for added depth.
5. Warm Bumble Coffee:
• For colder days, serve it warm by mixing espresso with hot orange juice and honey instead of syrup.
Conclusion
Bumble coffee is not only versatile but also allows for creativity in its preparation. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with various juices and syrups, this drink promises a unique and refreshing experience each time you make it. Enjoy crafting your perfect Bumble coffee!
These variations are no less top-notch than the original, although calling such drinks “bumble coffee”, strictly speaking, is no longer possible. Share in the comments, what kind of bumble coffee do you like the most, maybe you have your own secret composition?
FAQ
Can the caramel syrup be replaced with another syrup
Yes, you can definitely replace caramel syrup with other types of syrup in coffee. There are numerous alternatives that can enhance the flavor profile of your drink:
1. Vanilla Syrup: A classic choice that adds a sweet and creamy flavor.
2. Maple Syrup: Offers a unique sweetness with a hint of earthiness, making it a great substitute.
3. Chocolate Syrup: For those who enjoy a richer, dessert-like flavor.
4. Nut Flavored Syrups: Almond or hazelnut syrups can provide a delightful nutty taste.
5. Fruit Syrups: Berry or citrus syrups can add a refreshing twist to your coffee.
Experimenting with different syrups allows for a variety of flavors and can cater to personal preferences, enhancing the overall coffee experience.
What other juices can be used in place of orange juice
You can use a variety of juices as substitutes for orange juice in recipes. Here are some excellent alternatives:
1. Lemon Juice: Offers a similar citrus flavor but is more acidic. It works well in marinades and sauces, and you can balance its tartness with a bit of honey or syrup.
2. Mandarin Juice: A close relative of orange juice, mandarin juice can be used in equal amounts as a direct substitute.
3. Apple Juice: Provides sweetness, though the flavor differs from orange juice. Opt for organic, unfiltered apple juice for the best taste.
4. Grapefruit Juice: This juice has a tangy flavor that can replace orange juice, especially in cocktails or salad dressings.
5. Pineapple Juice: Adds tropical sweetness and acidity, making it suitable for marinades and desserts.
6. Lime Juice: Another citrus option that is more tart than orange juice; it works well in savory dishes and cocktails.
7. Guava Juice: Offers a unique flavor profile that can add an exotic twist to your recipes.
8. Kiwi Juice: Provides a sweet and slightly tart flavor, making it a good alternative in smoothies and fruit salads.
9. Cranberry Juice: While more tart, it can be used in cocktails or dressings where a fruity flavor is desired.
10. White Wine or Apple Cider Vinegar: For cooking purposes, these can provide acidity similar to orange juice, especially in savory dishes.
These substitutes can help maintain the desired flavor profile in your recipes while accommodating personal preferences or dietary restrictions.
Can alcohol be added to bumble coffee
Yes, you can definitely add alcohol to Bumble coffee! This refreshing drink can be enhanced with various spirits to create a delightful cocktail experience. Here are some popular options:
1. Rum: A light or dark rum can complement the flavors of coffee and citrus, adding a tropical twist.
2. Vodka: Neutral in flavor, vodka can be added without altering the drink’s original taste significantly.
3. Baileys Irish Cream: This creamy liqueur pairs well with coffee, adding richness and sweetness.
4. Coffee Liqueurs: Such as Kahlúa or Tia Maria, these can enhance the coffee flavor while adding a sweet touch.
5. Amaretto: This almond-flavored liqueur adds a nutty sweetness that works beautifully with the other ingredients.
When adding alcohol, consider the balance of flavors to ensure that the drink remains refreshing and enjoyable. Adjust the quantities based on your preference for sweetness and strength. Enjoy experimenting with different combinations!
Which glass is best to use to serve bumble coffee
For serving Bumble coffee, the best choice of glassware is a tall cocktail glass. This type of glass allows for the layering effect that is characteristic of Bumble coffee, showcasing its vibrant colors and ingredients.
Recommended Glass Types:
1. Highball Glass:
• Ideal for cocktails and mixed drinks, it has a straight shape and sufficient height to accommodate the layers of the drink.
2. Hurricane Glass:
• This glass has a curvy shape and is often used for tropical cocktails, making it visually appealing for Bumble coffee as well.
3. Collins Glass:
• Similar to a highball glass but taller and narrower, it can also be used for serving Bumble coffee effectively.
Choosing a transparent glass will enhance the visual appeal of the drink, allowing the beautiful layers of coffee, syrup, and juice to be seen clearly.
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Print RecipeIngredients
- Double Espresso: 30-50 ml
- Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice: 100-120 ml
- Caramel Syrup: 20 ml (can be adjusted to taste)
- Ice: 6-8 cubes
- Glassware: Tall cocktail glass (approximately 300 ml)








