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If you’ve ever seen a beautiful double-layered glass with dark coffee and bright yellow orange juice on Instagram or TikTok, that’s capuorange. This drink, which is invigorating, refreshing, and looks great in photos, has become a real hit among coffee lovers and fans of unusual flavors.
In just a few years, this simple yet sophisticated drink has become one of the most popular coffee trends in Ukraine and around the world. People make it at home, order it in coffee shops, and the hashtag #капуоранж (kapuorange) gets thousands of new posts every day. This article contains everything you need to know: from the origin of the name to a detailed step-by-step recipe, variations, preparation tips, information about the benefits and harms, and answers to the most common questions.
What is capuorang and where does this name come from?
Capuorange is a coffee drink made from espresso and orange juice. The name consists of two words: cappuccino (from the Italian cappuccio, meaning hood, referring to the shape of the milk foam) and orange (or orange in French). Literally, it means “cappuccino with orange.”
In fact, capuorange is not a classic cappuccino in terms of its composition — it does not contain milk. But they do have something in common: both drinks are made with espresso and have a foamy “cap” on top, only in capuorange it is made from whipped orange juice.
the drink gained popularity on social media around 2023–2024, although the combination of coffee and orange had existed before in various coffee shops around the world. Its viral effect was primarily due to its striking appearance: dark brown coffee and rich yellow juice form layers that separate on their own when the coffee is poured carefully.
Capuorang, bumblebee, bumble — what is the difference between the names?
The drink has three common names, all of which describe the same combination — but each reflects the character of the drink in its own way.
- Capuorange is the most accurate descriptive name: a combination of the words “cappuccino” and “orange.” It emphasizes the coffee character of the drink and its similarity to cappuccino in texture.
- Dzhmil is a Ukrainian name that originated from its appearance: yellow orange juice and dark brown coffee resemble the color of a bumblebee — yellow and black.
- Bumble is a transliteration of the English word bumblebee. This name originated on English-language social networks and has become established in international usage.
There is a slight difference in the recipe between the cold and warm versions, but it is the same drink in different states of aggregation. Bumble and bumblebee are more often associated with the cold version with ice, while capuorange is associated with both cold and warm versions.
Ingredients for capuorange
The recipe for caporange is simple: minimal ingredients, maximum flavor. Here’s what you’ll need to make one serving.
For cold capuorange (Bumble/Bumblebee):
- Espresso — 30–60 ml (single or double shot)
- Orange juice or fresh juice — 120–200 ml
- Caramel or maple syrup — 15–30 ml (optional)
- Ice — 6–8 cubes
- Orange — 1–2 slices for decoration (optional)
- Straw for serving
For warm capuorange:
- Espresso — 60 ml
- Orange juice or fresh juice — 120 ml
- Honey or sugar syrup — 1 tbsp (optional)
- Ground cinnamon — a pinch (optional)
What to choose — juice or fresh juice?
Freshly squeezed orange juice is the best choice. It tastes better, smells better, and contains more vitamins. But if you don’t have fresh juice, high-quality packaged juice without added sugar and preservatives will do. The main thing is to avoid juices with artificial flavors: they will give an unpleasant chemical aftertaste when combined with coffee.
Classic recipe for cold capuorange (Bumblebee): step by step
The cold version is the most popular, especially in summer. It refreshes, invigorates, and looks incredible in a clear glass. Here is a step-by-step recipe.
What you will need:
- Highball glass or tall clear glass (300–400 ml)
- Coffee machine, geyser coffee maker, or Turkish coffee pot
- Bar spoon or regular long spoon
- Juicer (if you are making fresh juice)
Step-by-step preparation:
Step 1. Brew espresso.
Prepare 30–60 ml of strong espresso using any convenient method: in a coffee machine, geyser coffee maker, or Turkish coffee pot. If you are using a Turkish coffee pot, be sure to strain the coffee from the grounds after brewing. Set the coffee aside to cool slightly to room temperature (but do not refrigerate).
Step 2. Squeeze the orange juice.
If you are making fresh juice, cut 2–3 medium oranges in half and squeeze the juice. You will need 120–200 ml of liquid. Whether to strain out the pulp or not is a matter of taste.
Step 3. Fill the glass with ice.
Place 6–8 ice cubes in the glass so that they cover the bottom and most of the volume. The more ice there is, the longer the drink will stay cold and the clearer the layers will be.
Step 4. Add syrup (if desired).
If you want a sweeter drink, pour 15–30 ml of caramel, maple, or cane syrup directly onto the ice. You can also use honey, dissolving it in warm water beforehand.
Step 5. Pour in the orange juice.
Pour the juice into the glass over the ice. Fill the glass about 2/3 full.
Step 6. Carefully pour in the coffee — this is key!
This is the most important step for achieving two beautiful layers. Hold a bar spoon or regular spoon directly above the surface of the juice and slowly pour the coffee over it. The spoon “extinguishes” the pressure and the coffee settles in a thin layer on top without mixing with the juice right away.
Step 7. Decorate and serve.
Garnish the glass with a slice of orange on the rim. Serve with a straw. Stir with a straw before drinking: the flavor is best when mixed.
Recipe for warm capuorange: step by step
The hot version is less well known but no less delicious. It is especially popular during the cooler months. Its texture is very similar to cappuccino.
Step 1. Prepare 60 ml of espresso in a coffee machine or by other means.
Step 2. Pour 120 ml of orange juice into a small mug or milk jug and heat gently to 60–65°C (do not boil!).
Step 3. Whisk the warm juice with a cappuccino maker or hand mixer until it forms a fluffy foam. This will take 30–60 seconds.
Step 4. Pour the whipped juice into a warmed cup, keeping the foam on top.
Step 5. Carefully pour the espresso in spoonfuls so that it settles under the foam or forms a nice layer on top of the juice.
Step 6. If desired, sprinkle with a pinch of cinnamon or add a teaspoon of honey. Serve immediately while still warm.
Variations on capuorange: how to diversify the recipe
The basic recipe for the drink is just a starting point. Here are some interesting variations to help you find your perfect option.
1. Spiced Bumble
Add a pinch of cinnamon, a pinch of cardamom, or a star anise to the orange juice. Spices perfectly complement the citrus-coffee combination and make the drink more aromatic and “wintery.”
2. Honey capuorange
Instead of sugar syrup, use natural flower or acacia honey. Dissolve 1–2 teaspoons of honey in warm juice before whisking. Honey adds a soft caramel sweetness and beneficial micronutrients.
3. Capuorang with coconut milk
Replace some of the orange juice (50 ml) with coconut milk. This will make the drink creamier and add tropical notes — a great option for those who like foam similar to real cappuccino.
4. Bumble with whipped cream
Top the finished cold drink with a spoonful of whipped cream or cream cheese. It looks like a real dessert cocktail and will appeal to those with a sweet tooth.
5. Capuorang with grapefruit
Instead of orange, try grapefruit or a mixture of orange and grapefruit in a 1:1 ratio. Grapefruit will add more bitterness and spice, perfectly balancing the coffee.
6. Cold caporange with cream cheese
A popular variation: top the ice and juice with 2–3 tablespoons of whipped cream cheese (similar to the trendy “cheese coffee”), then carefully pour in the coffee. The result is a very creamy and rich drink.
7. Vegan Bumble
Completely plant-based version: use agave syrup or maple syrup instead of honey, and for a warm version, whisk the juice together with plant-based milk (oat or almond).
8. Alcoholic Bumble (18+)
For adult parties: add 20–30 ml of orange liqueur (Triple Sec, Grand Marnier, or Cointreau) along with the orange juice. Pour the coffee over ice, as in the classic recipe. The result is an elegant cocktail with a coffee accent.
Secrets of the perfect cappuccino: tips from baristas
Even a simple recipe can be ruined or perfected—it all depends on the details. Here are the most important tips.
Ice — the foundation of layers
Use as much ice as possible. First, it cools the drink. Second, the denser the layer of ice, the easier it is for the coffee to “settle” on top without sinking to the bottom. The ideal option is large ice cubes or cubes frozen with coffee (coffee ice).
Coffee ice — a life hack for true connoisseurs
Freeze leftover coffee in ice cube trays. Use coffee cubes instead of regular ice: the drink will not be diluted with water as it melts, and the coffee flavor will remain rich until the last drop.
The temperature of coffee is important
Do not pour hot coffee directly onto ice. Allow it to cool slightly to room temperature (2–3 minutes). This will prevent the ice from melting too quickly and preserve the beautiful two-layer effect for longer.
Pouring technique — the key to beauty
Be sure to pour the coffee with a spoon. You can also use a regular teaspoon or pour the coffee down the side of the glass. The movement should be smooth and slow, without any sudden movements.
Balance of taste
Start without syrup and evaluate the taste. If the orange is too sour, add syrup or honey gradually, one teaspoon at a time. The ideal drink should taste balanced: not too sweet and not too sour.
Choosing oranges
Juicy sweet oranges (such as Valencia or Navel varieties) are best suited for fresh juice. Avoid very sour or greenish fruits. One large orange yields about 80–100 ml of juice, so you will need 2–3 oranges for one serving.
Which glass to choose
A tall transparent glass (highball, 300–400 ml) is a must if you want to enjoy the visual effect. It is in transparent glassware that the beautiful layers of the drink are visible.
Which coffee to choose for cappuccino
The taste of the drink depends not only on the orange, but also on the quality of the coffee. Here are a few recommendations.
Espresso from a coffee machine is the best option. It gives a rich, concentrated flavor and a characteristic crema (foam), which makes the layers more pronounced.
A moka pot is an affordable alternative. It produces strong, rich coffee, although without crema. Suitable for home use.
A Turkish coffee pot (cezve) is also suitable. Be sure to strain the coffee from the grounds before adding it to the drink.
Instant coffee — can be used in a pinch, but the taste will be noticeably worse. If you use it, choose high-quality instant espresso and brew it in a minimal amount of water (20–30 ml) to obtain a concentrate.
Bean roasting: Medium or dark roast beans are best suited for Capuorange. They give more pronounced chocolate and caramel notes, which go well with the citrus sourness of orange.
Calorie content and nutritional value of capuorang
Capuorange is one of the least caloric coffee drinks.
| Option | Calories (kcal/serving) |
|---|---|
| Without syrup (basic) | ~45–60 kcal |
| With caramel syrup | ~90–120 kcal |
| With honey | ~80–100 kcal |
| With whipped cream | ~150–180 kcal |
| Alcoholic (with liqueur) | ~200–220 kcal |
For comparison: a regular cappuccino with 200 ml of milk contains about 80–120 kcal, while a large latte can contain 200–300 kcal. If you are watching your diet, Capuorange without syrup is an excellent choice.
The benefits of capuorangu
Capuorange is not just delicious. The drink has several real health benefits.
Vitamin C and antioxidants. Orange juice is an excellent source of vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system, protects cells from oxidative stress, and maintains healthy skin. One glass of fresh orange juice (200 ml) contains about 80–100 mg of vitamin C, which is the daily requirement for an adult.
Natural energy boost. The caffeine in espresso stimulates the central nervous system, improves concentration, and reduces fatigue. Thanks to the combination of caffeine and natural orange sugars, the energy boost comes quickly and lasts longer.
Minerals. Oranges contain potassium (important for the cardiovascular system), folic acid, and magnesium. These elements support normal heart and nervous system function.
Hydration. Unlike pure espresso, cappuccino contains a significant amount of liquid — orange juice is 85–88% water, which helps hydrate the body.
Low calorie content. Without added syrups, the drink has only 45–60 calories per serving. This makes it a good alternative to high-calorie coffee drinks with milk and syrups.
Harmfulness and contraindications
Despite its advantages, capuorang is not suitable for everyone and may be harmful under certain conditions.
Acidity. Orange juice is a fairly acidic product (pH 3.3–4.0). When combined with coffee, which also has an acidic reaction, the drink can exacerbate symptoms of gastritis, esophagitis, or reflux. People with gastrointestinal diseases should only drink it after meals or consult a doctor.
Caffeine. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are advised to limit their caffeine intake to 200 mg/day. One shot of espresso contains about 60–80 mg of caffeine, so it is important to consider your total daily caffeine intake.
Sugar when adding syrups. Caramel and other syrups add a significant amount of simple sugars. People with diabetes or those who monitor their blood sugar levels should either avoid syrups or use sugar-free syrups.
Tooth enamel. Regular consumption of acidic drinks (especially with ice through a straw) can gradually destroy tooth enamel. Dentists recommend drinking through a straw (which is actually the usual way to serve bamboo) and rinsing your mouth with water after drinking.
Allergies. Although orange allergies are rare, citrus fruits are one of the possible allergens. If you experience any reactions, stop drinking the beverage.
FAQ:
Is it possible to make cappuccino without a coffee machine?
Yes, absolutely! You can use a moka pot, a Turkish coffee pot, or even high-quality instant coffee prepared in a small amount of boiling water to obtain a concentrate. A coffee machine gives the best results, but it is not essential.
How long does it take to prepare caporanzh?
About 5 minutes for the cold version and 7–10 minutes for the warm version. Most of the time is spent making espresso and squeezing juice.
Can caporange be prepared in advance?
No, that’s not the best idea. The drink tastes best when fresh, right after preparation. Over time, the layers mix, the ice melts and dilutes the drink, and the juice oxidizes. At most, store the prepared juice in the refrigerator and brew the coffee immediately before consumption.
What is the difference between a capuorang and a bambol?
Essentially, it is the same drink with different names. Technically, “bumble” (bumblebee) is more often associated with a cold version with ice and syrup, while “kapoorange” can be warm (with whipped juice instead of milk foam). But these differences are not a generally accepted standard, and the names are used as synonyms.
What kind of coffee is best to use for bamboo?
Classic espresso or ristretto (a very short shot) are best suited. They give a rich, concentrated flavor that is not lost in the juice. Americano or filter coffee are too “watery” for this drink.
Can oranges be replaced with other citrus fruits?
Yes! Mandarin will give a sweeter and milder taste, grapefruit will give a more bitter and tangy taste, and lemon will be very sour (you will need more syrup). Try a mixture: for example, orange + mandarin in a 2:1 ratio.
Is a cappuccino the same as an espresso tonic?
No, they are different drinks. Espresso tonic is made with tonic water (sparkling water with a bitter quinine taste), while cappuorange is made with orange juice. Both drinks are two-layered, but their taste is fundamentally different.
Does capuoranga have milk?
There is no milk in the classic recipe. This makes the drink suitable for people who are lactose intolerant or vegans. If you want a creamier texture, add a small amount of plant-based milk (oat or almond).
How many calories are in a bumble?
Without syrup and other additives — about 45–60 kcal per serving. With syrup — 90–120 kcal, depending on the amount.
Why don’t the layers separate and the coffee mixes with the juice?
The two most common reasons are: first, you poured the coffee too quickly and without a spoon; second, there wasn’t enough ice. Try adding more ice, cooling the coffee to room temperature, and pouring it very slowly with a spoon or down the side of the glass.
Can milk be added to caporange?
Technically, it is possible, but it will be a different drink. Milk changes the consistency and taste, “muffling” the bright citrus note. If you prefer a creamier version, try cream or coconut milk in small amounts.
When is the best time of year to drink capuorang?
The cold version is ideal for spring and summer. Warm capuorang with whipped juice and cinnamon is a great choice for fall and winter. The drink is delicious any time of the year, just in different forms.
Serving and photos: how to make caporange “Instagram-worthy”
Capuorang is a very photogenic drink. Here are some tips on how to make it look beautiful.
- Glass: a tall, clear glass is a must-have. A highball glass or any clear glass with a capacity of 300 ml or more.
- Garnish: a slice of orange on the rim of the glass or inside, a straw (metal or glass), a pinch of cinnamon on top, a mint leaf.
- Stand: a wooden, bamboo, or ceramic stand adds to the aesthetics of the photo.
- Photography angle: shoot from behind or from the side in natural daylight so that the layers are visible.
- Background: minimalist, neutral tones — this makes the bright colors of the drink stand out more clearly.
Capuorang is a drink that combines simplicity and beauty with pleasant taste and real benefits. Regardless of which name you choose — bumblebee, bumble, or Capuorang — it is a refreshing coffee experience that is worth trying at least once. After the first glass, you will most likely want more.