Orange Americano

Orange Americano

Orange Americano is a bright and refreshing iced coffee made with fresh orange juice, sparkling water, and bold espresso. The sweet citrus flavour balances the coffee’s natural bitterness, creating a beautiful layered drink that is perfect for warm days.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 large glass

Ingredients

  • 1–2 shots espresso, approximately 5–10 g

  • 100 ml fresh orange juice

  • 50–80 ml chilled soda water or sparkling water

  • 1–2 teaspoons simple syrup or honey, optional

  • 1 cup ice cubes

  • 1 thin orange slice for garnish

  • Fresh mint leaves, optional

Instructions

Prepare the Coffee

  1. Brew the espresso.
    Prepare one or two shots of espresso, depending on how strong you prefer the drink.

  2. Cool slightly.
    Leave the espresso to cool for approximately 2–3 minutes. This helps prevent the ice from melting too quickly.

  3. Sweeten if desired.
    Stir in simple syrup or honey while the coffee is still slightly warm.

Assemble the Orange Americano

  1. Prepare the glass.
    Fill a tall serving glass with ice cubes.

  2. Add the orange juice.
    Pour the fresh orange juice over the ice.

  3. Add the soda water.
    Slowly pour in the chilled soda or sparkling water.

  4. Create the coffee layer.
    Gently pour the cooled espresso over the back of a spoon. This helps the coffee sit above the orange layer and creates a beautiful two-tone appearance.

  5. Garnish.
    Add a thin orange slice and fresh mint leaves, if desired.

  6. Serve.
    Serve immediately. Stir well before drinking to combine the coffee, orange juice, and sparkling water.

Simple Syrup

To make a small batch of simple syrup, combine:

  • 2 tablespoons sugar

  • 2 tablespoons hot water

Stir until the sugar completely dissolves. Allow it to cool before adding it to the drink.

Still-Water Variation

For a classic Orange Americano without fizz, replace the soda water with 60–80 ml of chilled drinking water.

Add the water after the orange juice, then slowly pour the espresso on top.

Kift’s Tips

  • Use freshly squeezed, well strained orange juice for the freshest flavour.

  • Sweet oranges work best because very sour juice may overpower the coffee.

  • Chill the orange juice and soda water before assembling the drink.

  • Allow the espresso to cool slightly so the ice melts more slowly.

  • Pour the espresso slowly over the back of a spoon to create attractive layers.

  • Use one espresso shot for a mild drink or two shots for a stronger coffee flavour.

  • Add the sparkling water before the espresso to keep the layers visible.

  • Stir gently after serving so the drink keeps some of its fizz.

  • Avoid adding milk because the acidity of the orange juice may cause it to curdle.

  • Add a small amount of tonic water instead of soda water for a bittersweet variation.

  • Drink immediately for the best flavour, fizz, and layered appearance.

Storage Instructions

Orange Americano is best prepared and enjoyed immediately.

Fresh orange juice can be refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 24 hours.

The espresso can be brewed in advance and stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

Add fresh ice and sparkling water only when ready to serve. Storing the completed drink is not recommended because it will lose its fizz and become diluted.

Watch the Recipe Video

See how Kift makes this refreshing Orange Americano step by step:

YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/shorts/lPmwKaSN-wc

Cook With Kift — Bringing delicious homemade flavours to your kitchen.

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