Introduction
In the world of specialty coffee, we are surrounded by lattes, cappuccinos, and americanos. Yet, there’s one under-the-radar drink that has garnered a quiet yet devoted fanbase for its balance and rich, straightforward flavor: the cortado. This simple yet sophisticated espresso-based drink has roots in Spanish coffee culture and has made its way to cafes worldwide. In this post, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about the cortado—from its origins and preparation to how it compares with other espresso classics like the latte and flat white. For coffee enthusiasts and curious beginners alike, understanding the cortado can open up a new appreciation for how milk and espresso can harmonize beautifully.
What is a Cortado?
A cortado is an espresso-based coffee drink featuring a precise blend of equal parts espresso and steamed milk, typically around 2 ounces of each. The result? A small, 4-ounce coffee that offers a powerful coffee kick balanced by the creamy smoothness of milk. Unlike other milk-based espresso drinks that favor a larger milk-to-coffee ratio, the cortado allows the espresso flavor to shine while taking the edge off its natural acidity with a splash of milk. Typically served in a small glass, the cortado is smooth, velvety, and one of the most straightforward ways to enjoy espresso and milk together.
The Origins of the Cortado
The cortado originates from Spain, particularly the Basque region. In Spanish, “costar” means “to cut,” reflecting the milk’s purpose of “cutting” through the espresso’s acidity. This simplicity has made the cortado a staple in many Spanish-speaking countries, where coffee is enjoyed without excessive flavorings or additions.
As global coffee culture has evolved, the cortado has gained popularity outside of Spain and Latin America. Today, it’s embraced by specialty cafes around the world and is often served in a small glass called a Gibraltar glass, named for the bay and glassware trend that began in San Francisco’s Blue Bottle Coffee Company in the 2000s.
How a Cortado is Made
Creating a cortado requires precision to achieve the signature balance. Here’s how it’s done:
Ingredients:
- Double shot of espresso (about 2 ounces)
- Steamed milk (about 2 ounces)
Instructions:
- Pull the espresso: Start by making a double shot of espresso. The cortado relies on a strong coffee base to hold up against the milk, so a high-quality espresso is essential.
- Steam the milk: For a cortado, you don’t want heavy foam like you might in a cappuccino. Instead, aim for a micro foam that’s silky and smooth, creating a velvety texture without too much air.
- Combine: Pour the steamed milk over the espresso, aiming for a 1:1 ratio. The drink should be around 4 ounces in total.
- Serve: Traditionally, cortados are served in a small glass without any additional foam art, keeping the drink’s focus on taste and texture.
Cortado vs. Other Espresso Drinks
While the cortado may seem similar to other espresso and milk drinks, its composition and flavor profile set it apart. Here’s a look at how the cortado compares to a few popular options:
Cortado vs. Macchiato
The macchiato is another small drink with minimal milk, but it differs significantly from the cortado. A macchiato consists of an espresso “marked” with just a touch of steamed milk, usually about a teaspoon or two. This leaves the espresso bold and prominent, with only a hint of milk to smooth it out. By contrast, a cortado’s 1:1 ratio provides more balance between the milk and espresso, giving it a creamier texture and milder flavor.
Cortado vs. Flat White
Originating from Australia and New Zealand, the flat white is similar to a cortado but with a slightly higher milk-to-espresso ratio. A flat white generally contains a double shot of espresso (around 2 ounces) with about 4 ounces of steamed milk. The extra milk creates a creamier drink and softens the coffee’s intensity a bit more than a cortado would.
Cortado vs. Cappuccino
The cappuccino is a 6-ounce drink composed of equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam. It has a distinctly layered structure, with a frothy foam topping that adds an airy texture. The cortado, in comparison, has no distinct foam layer and is much smaller in volume, making it a more espresso-forward choice without the airiness or froth.
Cortado vs. Latte
A latte is usually around 8 to 12 ounces, with a 1:3 or even 1:4 ratio of espresso to steamed milk, often with a bit of milk foam on top. Lattes are the go-to drink for those who want a creamier, milder coffee flavor with a larger milk presence. The cortado, being much smaller and with less milk, allows the coffee’s flavor to shine through more directly.
Why the Cortado is So Popular
The cortado’s popularity can be attributed to its simplicity and balance. For coffee purists, it’s the perfect middle ground between an intense espresso and a heavily milked latte. By balancing acidity with a controlled amount of milk, the cortado highlights the espresso’s flavors without overpowering them. Additionally, its small size is ideal for coffee lovers who want a quick, satisfying drink that isn’t overwhelming in volume or strength.
In today’s coffee culture, where people seek unique yet straightforward coffee experiences, the cortado offers exactly that. It’s minimalistic, uncomplicated, and full of character—a refreshing alternative to the larger, milk-heavy drinks commonly ordered.
How to Order a Cortado at a Café
If you’re visiting a café that specializes in espresso drinks, ordering a cortado is typically straightforward. Many coffee menus now include the cortado alongside traditional offerings like cappuccinos and lattes. Here are a few tips for ordering:
- Ask for a cortado by name: Most baristas will know exactly what you’re looking for.
- Specify your preference for glassware: If you’d like it served in a glass, let the barista know, as some cafes may default to ceramic mugs.
- Request adjustments if needed: Some cafes might adjust the milk quantity or use single shots instead of doubles. If you prefer a specific strength, don’t hesitate to ask.
Make a Cortado at Home
Making a cortado at home can be a fun way to explore your coffee-making skills. Here’s a simple guide:
Equipment Needed:
- Espresso machine (or stovetop espresso maker)
- Milk frother or steam wand
- Small 4-ounce glass or cup
Steps:
- Brew a double shot of espresso.
- Steam milk until it reaches a smooth, micro foam consistency, being careful not to create too much froth.
- Combine the espresso and steamed milk in a 1:1 ratio in a small glass.
- Enjoy your cortado immediately, savoring the balance of flavors and creamy texture.
Conclusion: Enjoying the Cortado’s Perfect Balance
The cortado may be simple, but it’s a drink that has captured the hearts of many coffee enthusiasts. Its perfect balance between espresso and milk makes it a go-to for those who crave a drink that highlights coffee’s depth without the acidity or heaviness found in other milk-based drinks. Whether you’re ordering one at a local café or perfecting your own cortado recipe at home, this classic drink promises a refined coffee experience with every sip.
By understanding what makes the cortado unique, you can deepen your appreciation of coffee’s nuances and even experiment with creating your own. So next time you’re in the mood for something different yet classic, give the cortado a try—it might just become your new favorite coffee ritual.
