If you thought coffee and orange juice were strictly breakfast rivals, think again. One of the latest trends shaking up the coffee world is the unexpected—but surprisingly delicious—pairing of these two morning staples. Known as coffee orange juice or an orange juice Americano, this bold drink blends the citrusy brightness of fresh OJ with the deep, complex flavors of coffee. It’s refreshing, eye-catching, and just adventurous enough to intrigue coffee lovers and curious sippers alike. Let’s dive into why this combination works, how to make it, and how to choose the right roast for the perfect pour.
What is coffee orange juice?
Orange juice coffee is a beverage that combines orange juice with coffee, typically cold brew or espresso. This citrus-coffee fusion creates a bright, slightly tangy drink with a balance of sweetness and acidity. Often served over ice, orange juice coffee—sometimes called an "orange juice Americano"—has grown popular in specialty coffee shops and on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram for its refreshing taste and eye-catching presentation.
Does coffee and orange juice taste good together?
Surprisingly, yes. Coffee and orange juice can taste really good together when prepared correctly. The sweetness and tang of orange juice pair well with the bold, bitter notes of coffee, creating a refreshing contrast that’s both energizing and bright. The citrus helps lift the richness of the coffee, resulting in a flavor profile that’s a little like a fruity iced Americano with a zesty twist. When made with fresh ingredients and balanced proportions, it can be a surprisingly delightful drink, especially on a warm day.
However, this combo doesn’t always hit the mark. If the orange juice is overly sour or highly acidic, it can clash with the natural acidity of certain coffee roasts and create a particularly unpleasant aftertaste. Similarly, using a dark roast or over-extracted espresso can make the drink taste overly bitter and overpower the citrus. And if the drink is mixed too aggressively, the flavors can become muddled instead of layered.
Like any bold flavor pairing, it depends on the ingredients and preparation—but when done right, it’s a refreshing and creative twist on your usual caffeine fix.
How to make the perfect coffee and orange juice
While your local cafe might not have this on the menu yet, you can still try it at home. Here’s how to make a delicious coffee orange juice at home.
Ingredients needed for coffee orange juice
- 4 oz freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 shot espresso or ¼ cup strong cold brew concentrate
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Ice cubes
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Optional:
- Splash of sparkling water or tonic for fizz
- Orange slice or mint sprig for garnish
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Optional:
Steps for making great coffee orange juice
1. Chill your glass
When making this unique bev, choose a whimsical glass like a highball or rocks glass. Chill it in the freezer for a few minutes beforehand so the drink stays crisp and refreshing for longer.
2. Add orange juice
Cut about 1-2 oranges in half and squeeze them using a handheld juicer or citrus press. You’ll need about ½ cup (4 oz) of juice. Strain out the seeds and pulp, unless you like a little pulp with your OJ. You can also use store-bought orange juice, but where’s the fun in that?
3. Add ice
Fill the glass about ¾ full with ice. This is particularly important, as the ice helps keep the layers separate when you add the coffee.
4. Prepare your coffee
Brew a fresh shot of espresso (using an espresso machine or French press). Let the shot of espresso cool, since it’ll be around 200°F.
If you're using cold brew, make sure it's both concentrated and chilled.
5. Slowly pour the coffee over the orange juice
Pour the coffee gently over the back of a spoon held just above the juice layer. This helps the coffee float on top for that beautiful, Instagrammable layered effect.
6. Optional steps
- Add fizz: For a sparkling version, top with a splash of tonic water or sparkling water.
- Garnish: Garnish with a slice of orange or a sprig of mint.
Tips for the best flavor
- Use freshly squeezed juice. The natural oils and pulp add brightness and body.
- Choose a coffee that’s low in acidity and chocolatey or nutty because this balances the citrus better. Our Belly Warmer blend would be the perfect choice.
- Want to turn it into a coffee cocktail? Try adding a shot of vodka or a few drops of orange bitters.
More creative coffee recipes to try
If you try the orange juice Americano and are itching to try more adventurous beverages, there are plenty of other creative coffee recipes that play with unusual pairings, layers, and mocktail-style presentation. Here are some standouts.
Espresso tonic
A trendy café favorite, this drink combines espresso with tonic water over ice, sometimes garnished with a slice of lime or orange. It’s bubbly, bitter, and refreshing, like a caffeinated G&T without the gin.
Lemon cold brew
This is another citrusy twist on coffee. Mix cold brew concentrate with a splash of lemon juice or lemonade. The acidity cuts through the richness of the coffee, just like in an orange juice Americano, with a slightly more sour flavor profile.
Honey citrus americano
This one blends hot or iced Americano with fresh lemon juice and a touch of honey. It's like a cross between a coffee and a soothing tea tonic—comforting but energizing.
Coffee and fruit shrubs
Shrubs are tangy syrups made from vinegar, sugar, and fruit. When mixed with coffee (especially cold brew), they bring a sweet-sour complexity. Try a strawberry-balsamic shrub with cold brew for a bold, summery sipper.
Coffee mojito (non-alcoholic)
Muddle fresh mint leaves with simple syrup and lime juice, add cold brew and ice, and top with sparkling water. It’s herbaceous, fizzy, and super refreshing.
Orange cream cold brew
Think of it as the dessert version of coffee orange juice. Combine cold brew, orange syrup or zest, and a splash of vanilla cream. It’s smooth, citrusy, and a little indulgent—like a grown-up creamsicle.
Tropical coffee spritzer
Mix pineapple juice, cold brew, and soda water for a tropical coffee mocktail. Add a dash of coconut milk or coconut syrup for an even beachier vibe.
Brighten up your morning routine with coffee orange juice
Coffee orange juice is a unique twist on your normal morning coffee, a refreshing reminder that coffee can be as versatile and creative as you want it to be. Add this recipe to your at-home barista repertoire or order this drink the next time you visit a specialty coffee shop. It’s a great way to expand your palate and discover your new favorite coffee beverage.
Don’t forget the beans! Browse through our selection of single-origin roasts and blends to find the perfect beans for your brew.
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- Why Coffee and Chocolate Are the Perfect Pairing
- Dalgona Coffee: Everything You Need to Know About Whipped Coffee
- What is a German Eiskaffee and How Do You Make One?
