How to Make Cortado and How Is It Different from Other Types of Coffee

A cortado is a harmonious espresso drink that originated in Spain, combining equal parts rich espresso and silky steamed milk. Pronounced "cor-TAH-doe," this small but mighty beverage offers coffee lovers a perfectly balanced brewing experience that highlights the true essence of espresso.

Quick Cortado Facts

• Cortado Origin: Spain's Basque Region
• Cortado Meaning: "Cut" in Spanish (referring to how milk "cuts" the espresso)
• Cortado Typical Size: 133ml (4.5 oz)
• Cortado Flavor Profile: Bold espresso softened by smooth milk

What is a Cortado? [Definitive Guide]

The magic of a cortado lies in its precise 1:1 ratio of espresso to milk. Unlike other espresso drinks that use more milk, the cortado creates a delicate balance that allows both the coffee's intensity and the milk's sweetness to shine through. Another common ratio for Cortado coffee is 1:2, ensuring that each sip is a harmonious blend of bold espresso and creamy milk.

Key Characteristics

• Milk Texture: Lightly steamed, minimal foam
• Espresso Shots: Typically double shot
• Serving Temperature: 155-165°F (68-74°C)

How to Make a Cortado: Step-by-Step Guide

Equipment Needed

• Espresso machine
• Milk steaming pitcher
• 133ml Gibraltar glass (traditional serving method)
• Burr grinder
• Digital scale

Ingredients

• 30-60ml high-quality espresso beans
• 30-60ml whole milk (or alternative milk)

Brewing Method

1. Grind Beans: Use a burr grinder to achieve a fine espresso grind
2. Pull Espresso Shot: Extract a double shot (30-60ml)
3. Steam Milk:

1. Heat milk to 155-165°F
2. Create a light, silky texture
3. Avoid heavy foam
4. Combine: Pour steamed milk over espresso
5. Serve Immediately: In a 133ml glass

Cortado Variations to Explore

1. Iced Cortado

• Serve over ice cubes
• Maintain the 1:1 espresso to milk ratio
• It's Perfect for warm weather

2. Cortadito (Cuban Style)

• Use condensed milk instead of regular milk
• Adds a sweet, rich twist to the traditional recipe

3. Alternative Milk Options

• Almond Milk: Adds subtle nuttiness
• Oat Milk: Provides creamy texture
• Soy Milk: Offers slightly sweet undertone

Cortado vs. Other Coffee Drinks

Cortado vs. Flat White

• Cortado: 1:1 espresso to milk ratio
• Flat White: More milk, more microfoam
• Key Difference: Cortado is more intense, smaller serving

Cortado vs. Latte

• Cortado: Bold, balanced flavor
• Latte: Milder, more milk-forward
• Foam: Cortado has minimal foam, latte has more

Cortado vs. Macchiato

• Cortado: Equal parts espresso and milk
• Macchiato: Espresso "marked" with a small amount of milk
• Intensity: Cortado more balanced, macchiato more espresso-forward

Choosing the Right Coffee Beans

Recommended Beans

• Robusta: Provides intense, bold flavor
• High-Altitude Arabica: Offers complex taste profile
• Roast Level: Medium to dark roast works best

Bean Selection Tips

• Choose freshly roasted beans
• Look for beans with chocolate or nutty notes
• Consider single-origin or carefully crafted blends

Pro Tips for the Perfect Cortado

1. Use freshly ground beans
2. Invest in a good espresso machine
3. Practice milk steaming technique
4. Serve immediately after preparation
5. Use a pre-warmed glass for best experience

Conclusion

The cortado represents more than just a coffee drink – it's a carefully crafted experience that balances the bold world of espresso with the smooth embrace of steamed milk. Whether you're a coffee enthusiast or a casual drinker, mastering the cortado opens up a new dimension of coffee appreciation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cortado

What is a cortado?

A cortado is a Spanish espresso-based drink consisting of equal parts espresso and steamed milk, typically served in a 133ml glass. It balances the bold flavor of espresso with a smooth milk texture, creating a harmonious coffee experience.

What is cortado made of?

A cortado is made of two primary ingredients:

• Espresso (double shot, 30-60ml)
• Steamed milk (30-60ml) The key is the 1:1 ratio of espresso to milk, creating a balanced and intense coffee drink.

How is cortado coffee made?

1. Grind high-quality espresso beans
2. Pull a double shot of espresso (30-60ml)
3. Steam milk to 68–74°C
4. Pour steamed milk over espresso in a 133ml glass
5. Aim for minimal foam and a smooth texture

What makes a cortado different?

Unlike other coffee drinks, a cortado uses steamed milk instead of frothy, texturized milk. This creates a smoother taste and appearance, with a more balanced flavor profile compared to other espresso-based drinks.

What is the difference between a cortado and a flat white coffee?

• Cortado: 1:1 espresso to milk ratio
• Flat White: 1:2 or 1:3 espresso to milk ratio
• Cortado has a stronger coffee flavor
• Flat white has more microfoam and a more velvety texture

How is a cortado different from a latte?

• Cortado: 1:1 espresso-to-milk ratio, bold taste
• Latte: 3:2 ratio, more textured milk
• Cortado is smaller and less sweet
• Latte has more milk and is typically served in a larger cup

How many shots of espresso in a cortado?

A traditional cortado contains a double shot of espresso, typically 30-60ml.

Is cortado sweet?

Traditionally, a cortado is not sweet. It's a balanced drink focusing on the pure flavors of espresso and milk. However, some variations can include sweeteners or flavored syrups.

How many ml of milk in cortado coffee?

A standard cortado contains 30-60ml of milk, matched equally to the espresso volume, typically served in a 133ml glass.

What is the cortado temperature?

The ideal serving temperature for a cortado is between (68-74°C) 155-165°F, ensuring optimal flavor and drinking comfort.

Is cortado strong?

Yes, a cortado is relatively strong. Its 1:1 espresso to milk ratio provides a more intense coffee experience compared to drinks with more milk like lattes or cappuccinos.

How to make a cortado without a coffee machine?

Alternative methods include:

• Moka pot for espresso-like coffee
• AeroPress with fine grind and pressure
• Strong coffee from a manual brewing method (though not traditional)

What does cortado taste like?

A cortado offers a balanced, smooth taste with:

• Bold espresso flavor
• Subtle milk sweetness
• Minimal bitterness
• Rich, concentrated coffee experience

What is the difference between Cortado and Cappuccino?

• Cortado: Equal espresso and milk, minimal foam
• Cappuccino: More milk, more foam (typically 1/3 espresso, 1/3 steamed milk, 1/3 foam)
• Cortado is more intense, cappuccino is lighter and more voluminous