What is a Cortado? Plus, a Simple Homemade Recipe

A cortado is a Spanish-style espresso beverage that blends equal parts espresso and steamed milk, creating a smooth, balanced cup without overpowering bitterness.

In this quick guide, you’ll learn exactly what makes a cortado unique, how it compares to similar drinks, and how to make one at home with just a few ingredients.

What Is A Cortado Coffee?

A cortado is a traditional Spanish-inspired coffee drink. The word “cortado” literally means “cut” in Spanish. This refers to how the steamed milk cuts the acidity of espresso, creating a smooth taste.

Here are some key features of cortado coffee:

• Concentrated Flavor: Served in a small glass (typically 4-5 oz), the cortado offers a bold yet smooth coffee experience.
• Espresso-Forward: The high espresso-to-milk ratio allows the espresso’s flavor to dominate.
• Not Diluted: Unlike lattes or cappuccinos, the minimal milk volume does not significantly dilute the espresso’s intensity.

The cortado is known for its ideal ratio of espresso to steamed milk. This ratio is typically 1:1 or 1:2, meaning equal parts espresso and milk or slightly more milk. This creates a harmonious blend that highlights the coffee’s flavor without overwhelming it.

Is Cortado Coffee Strong?

Yes, cortado coffee is considered strong. Its high espresso-to-milk ratio allows the espresso’s flavor to dominate. This drink is not just about strength; it’s also about taste. A cortado delivers a potent caffeine kick, similar to a double espresso.

The concentrated caffeine in cortado makes it a popular choice among coffee lovers. Here’s why:

• Espresso-Forward: The espresso flavor is the star of the show.
• Concentrated Caffeine: It offers a boost similar to a double espresso.
• Smooth Experience: The milk makes it less harsh, but the strength remains.

Choosing a cortado means enjoying a drink that balances strength and flavor. It is not diluted like other coffee drinks, allowing the drinker to savor the coffee’s true essence.

Ingredients & Equipment For Cortado

To make a perfect cortado at home, you need the right ingredients and equipment. Understanding these basics will help you craft an enjoyable coffee experience.

Essential Ingredients

Making a cortado requires specific ingredients to achieve the best taste. Here’s what you need:

• Fresh Coffee Beans: 17 grams of high-quality coffee beans.
• Espresso: 50 ml of freshly brewed espresso.
• Steamed Milk: 60 ml of steamed milk.

Using fresh coffee beans enhances the flavor. Always grind the beans just before brewing. This ensures the best taste and aroma. The espresso should be strong and rich, while the steamed milk adds creaminess.

Key Equipment For Home Baristas

To make a cortado at home, you need the right tools. Here’s a list of essential equipment:

• Espresso Machine: A quality machine ensures proper extraction.
• Burr Coffee Grinder: For uniform coffee grounds, use a burr grinder.
• Milk Steamer or Steam Wand: This helps create creamy steamed milk.
• Small Milk Pitcher: Useful for frothing and pouring milk.
• Cortado Glass (4–5 oz): Ideal for serving your cortado.

Having the right equipment is essential for making a great cortado. Each tool plays a role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture. Invest in good equipment for the best results.

Step-by-step Cortado Coffee Recipe

Making a cortado at home is easy and rewarding. Follow this simple step-by-step cortado coffee recipe to enjoy your own perfect cup.

Grind And Prep The Beans

The first step in making a cortado is to grind your coffee beans. Freshly ground coffee makes a big difference in flavor. Use high-quality coffee beans for the best results. Here’s how to prepare:

Start by measuring out 17 grams of fresh coffee beans. Use a burr grinder to grind them to a fine consistency, ideal for espresso. Make sure your espresso machine is preheated and ready.

Pull The Espresso Shot

Next, it’s time to pull your espresso shot. This step is crucial for creating the base of your cortado. Follow these steps:

Tamp the ground coffee evenly into your portafilter. Pull a 50 ml double shot of espresso directly into a small 4–5 oz glass. The result should be rich, with a golden crema layer on top.

Steam The Milk

Steaming the milk is the next step. A cortado uses less milk than other drinks. Here’s how to do it:

In a small milk pitcher, steam 60 ml of whole milk. Heat until it’s warm and velvety, avoiding large bubbles. You want microfoam, not froth—aim for a silky, smooth texture.

Combine And Serve

The final step is to combine the espresso and milk. This part is simple but important:

Slowly pour the steamed milk into the espresso, maintaining a 1:1 ratio. The milk should blend with the espresso rather than overpower it. Serve immediately and enjoy the smooth balance of bold and creamy.

Customization & Pro Tips For Perfection

Customizing your cortado allows you to tailor it to your taste. Here, we share tips and tricks for perfecting your cortado at home.

Achieving The Perfect Milk Texture

Creating the right milk texture is crucial for a great cortado. Aim for milk that is steamed to a smooth, velvety consistency. It should not be overly foamy or airy. Achieving this texture takes practice but enhances your drink significantly.

Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Velvety Microfoam: Focus on creating a microfoam that is soft and silky.
• Wet Paint Consistency: The ideal microfoam should resemble wet paint. It should integrate seamlessly with the espresso.
• Temperature Control: Avoid overheating the milk. Aim for 140-150°F (60-65°C) to preserve its natural sweetness and texture.

With practice, you’ll achieve that perfect microfoam that enhances your cortado.

Experimenting With Ratios & Flavor

The ratio of espresso to milk in a cortado is key to its flavor. The classic 1:1 ratio is a great start. However, you can try a 1:2 espresso to milk ratio for a different experience. This adjustment can change the strength and creaminess of your drink.

Consider these factors for flavor experimentation:

• Bean Selection: Different espresso roasts—light, medium, or dark—will yield varying flavor profiles. Experiment to match your palate.
• Adjusting Proportions: Play with the espresso and milk ratios to find your preferred balance.
• Subtle Flavorings: Add a tiny pinch of cinnamon, cocoa, or a drop of vanilla for an aromatic twist. These flavors should not overpower the coffee.

Try keeping a log of your experiments. Note the ratios and flavors used. This will help you find your perfect cortado recipe.

Difference Between Cortado Coffee & Other Coffees

Understanding the difference between a cortado and other popular coffee types is essential. This knowledge helps you choose the right drink for your taste.

Cortado Coffee Vs. Flat White

The cortado and flat white are both espresso-based drinks, but they have key differences. Here are some important points to consider:

• Size & Volume: Flat whites are generally larger (6-8 oz) with more milk, whereas cortados are smaller (4-5 oz).
• Milk Texture: Flat whites have a very thin, velvety layer of microfoam. Cortados often have slightly more steamed milk relative to foam, creating a denser drink.
• Vessel: Cortados are traditionally served in a glass, while flat whites are served in a ceramic cup.

The cortado offers a concentrated and intense flavor. The flat white is creamier and designed for a longer drinking experience. Both drinks have their unique charm.

Cortado Coffee Vs. Latte

The cortado and latte are popular choices, but they differ significantly in taste and texture. Here are some key distinctions:

• Milk Quantity: Lattes contain significantly more steamed milk and a thicker layer of foam. This makes them much milkier and less espresso-forward.
• Espresso Dominance: The cortado’s lower milk content allows the bold flavor of the espresso to shine through more prominently.
• Concentration: Cortados are concentrated and intense. Lattes are creamier and more mellow.

The cortado is perfect for those who appreciate a strong espresso taste. The latte is great for those who enjoy a creamier coffee experience.

Nutrition Facts Cortado Coffee

Understanding the nutrition facts of cortado coffee helps coffee lovers enjoy their drink without worry. Here, we explore the calories and caffeine content in a cortado, along with a simple homemade recipe.

Calories In A Cortado Coffee

A cortado coffee typically contains about 45 calories. The majority of calories come from the milk used in the drink. Here are some key points regarding the caloric content:

• Milk is the Source: The milk contributes most calories in a cortado.
• Skim vs. Whole: Using skim milk will further reduce calories compared to whole milk.
• Additions Increase Count: Any added sugars, syrups, or extra flavorings will significantly increase the total calorie content.

To illustrate the caloric values based on different milk types, here is a simple table:

Type of Milk	Calories per Cortado
Whole Milk	45
Skim Milk	35
Almond Milk	30

The key takeaway is that a cortado can be a low-calorie choice, especially when you opt for lower-calorie milk options. Enjoying it without sweeteners keeps calories in check.

Caffeine Content In A Cortado

The caffeine content in a cortado coffee is primarily determined by the number of espresso shots used. A standard cortado typically contains between 60-120 mg of caffeine. Here’s a closer look:

• Espresso-Driven: A single cortado usually includes 1 or 2 espresso shots.
• Standard Range: Caffeine amounts vary depending on the espresso shot size and roast.
• Concentrated Delivery: Due to its small volume, a cortado provides a concentrated dose of caffeine in a very palatable form.

The caffeine content is attractive for those seeking an energy boost without a large drink. Whether you prefer a single shot or a double, the cortado remains an excellent choice for coffee enthusiasts.