Key Takeaway:
- A cortado is a Spanish espresso drink with a balanced 1:1 ratio of espresso and steamed milk, offering a smooth, rich flavor perfect for any time of day.
You may have your own favorites when it comes to coffee, but have you ever tried a cortado coffee? If not, then you’re missing out on a delicious treat!
If you’ve ever wondered “what is a cortado,” here’s your answer: a cortado coffee is an espresso drink that includes a small amount of steamed milk in a 1:1 ratio.
When it comes to coffee, your taste may be completely different from the next person. Some people like their coffee black, while others prefer it with milk and sugar. Then there are those who like to experiment with different flavors and add-ins. But there is one type of coffee that seems to be enjoyed by everyone, and that’s cortado coffee.
The cortado originated in Spain in the early 20th century as a way to “cut” (cortar) the espresso’s acidity and intensity with milk. It later spread throughout Latin American café culture, becoming a favorite for its simple yet satisfying balance.
What Is A Cortado Coffee?
A cortado coffee is an espresso drink that includes a small amount of steamed milk. The ratio of coffee to milk is usually 1:1, making it a balanced and flavorful drink. Baristas often serve cortado coffees in small glasses or cups, which is why they’re sometimes referred to as “tall” cortados.
If you are looking for a coffee with a happy balance of milk and espresso, you must try the infamous cortado. Some people like it with more milk. Others like it with more espresso. It’s a really good coffee if you’re looking for something that isn’t too strong or weak.
Why Drink Cortado Coffee?
There are plenty of reasons to drink cortado coffee, but the most obvious is that it’s absolutely delicious. It’s a perfect balance of milk and espresso, making it rich and flavorful without being too strong. A cortado is a great alternative if you’re looking for something distinctive from your normal coffee order.
Another reason cortado coffee is so popular is it’s incredibly versatile. You can drink it anytime, and it’s just as good when hot or iced. It’s also great if you want something to pair with food. Cortado coffeenatics often enjoy this drink with breakfast items like pastries or sandwiches.
Flavor & Tasting Notes
- Mouthfeel: Silky and smooth, thanks to lightly textured milk.
- Acidity: Medium, with a pleasant brightness from the espresso.
- Body: Medium to full, offering a satisfying richness.
- Sweetness: Subtle natural sweetness from the milk enhances the espresso’s flavors.
How Is Cortado Different From Other Coffee Drinks?
Many compare cortado coffee to other espresso drinks like lattes, cappuccinos, and macchiatos. So, what’s the difference?
A latte is made with a double shot of espresso and steamed milk. The milk-to-espresso ratio is usually 2:1, making it a creamier and sweeter drink.
A cappuccino is also made with espresso and steamed milk, but the ratio of milk to espresso is 1:1. This makes it a stronger and less sweet drink.
A macchiato is an espresso that has a small amount of steamed milk added to it. The milk-to-espresso ratio is usually 1:1, making it a balanced and flavorful drink.
A cortado is similar to a macchiato, but it is served in a smaller glass or cup and uses lightly textured milk instead of frothy milk. This makes it a stronger and more intense drink.
| Drink | Espresso Shot(s) | Milk Shot(s) | Milk Texture | Serving Size |
| Latte | Double | More (2:1) | Steamed, smooth | 8–12 oz |
| Cappuccino | Single or double | Equal (1:1) | Frothy, foamed | 5–6 oz |
| Macchiato | Single | Small (1:1) | Dollop of foam | 2–3 oz |
| Cortado | Single | Equal (1:1) | Lightly textured | 4 oz (Gibraltar glass) |
Ordering Cortado
Your local Starbucks or other cafes usually don’t serve cortado coffee. This is because cortado is an old-school coffee drink often made at home. But, if you are looking for a cortado while out and about, there are a few ways to order one.
- Order an espresso with a small amount of steamed milk on the side.
- Order a macchiato and ask for less foam.
- Ask for a cappuccino or latte and ask for less milk.
Making Cortado Coffee at Home
If you want to try making cortado coffee at home, you only need espresso and milk. You can make espresso using an espresso machine, stovetop espresso maker, or even a French press. Just make sure to use freshly ground beans for the best flavor.
After making the espresso, it’s time to steam the milk. You can do this using a steamer wand attached to an espresso machine or a handheld milk frother. If you don’t have a steamer wand or handheld milk frother, you can simply heat the milk on the stove for 60-70 degrees Celsius or until the milk is hot and foamy.
Add the espresso to a small cup or glass, and then top it off with the steamed milk. You can also add honey or a little sugar to sweeten it.
Best Beans & Roast Recommendations
- Choose a medium‑dark roasted single‑origin espresso for balanced sweetness and clarity.
- Try a espresso blend featuring Central and South American beans for chocolate and nutty notes.
Finding Cortado Glasses
If you want to make cortados at home regularly, you will need special glasses. Cortado glasses are small and wide, which is perfect for holding a shot of espresso and a little bit of milk. You can find these glasses online or at many kitchenware stores.
If you can’t find cortado glasses, you can choose a small tumbler glass or a Gibraltar glass instead. Gibraltar glasses are similar in size and shape to cortado glasses. With the right glass, you can now enjoy making cortado at home.
Customization & Variations
- Substitute non‑dairy milk (oat, almond, or soy) for a vegan-friendly option.
- Add a dash of cinnamon or vanilla syrup for a flavored twist.
- Prepare as an iced cortado by pouring over ice and reducing milk by 10%.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make an iced cortado?
Yes—brew and chill your espresso, then pour over ice and top with cold lightly textured milk.
What milk alternative works best?
Oat milk steams well and offers a creamy texture closest to dairy.
How much caffeine is in a cortado?
Approximately 63 mg per single shot, depending on bean origin and roast.
Now that you know what cortado coffee is and how to make it, it’s time to enjoy it! This rich and flavorful coffee drink is perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re looking for a breakfast beverage or an after-dinner treat, cortado coffee will hit the spot.
