Cortadito is a bold and sweet Cuban coffee made by combining strong espresso with a small amount of steamed or evaporated milk. It’s similar to a Cortado, but with a Cuban twist—often pre-sweetened with a unique sugar-espresso foam called “espuma”.
This traditional coffee is rich, smooth, and slightly creamy, making it a favorite in Cuban cafés and homes. It’s the perfect drink for a quick energy boost or a social coffee break.
This guide will show you how to make an authentic Cortadito at home, including step-by-step instructions, variations, and expert tips to achieve the perfect balance of espresso and milk.
What Makes Cortadito Special?
✔ Strong, rich espresso flavor – Made with Cuban-style espresso for an intense taste.
✔ Pre-sweetened with espuma – Sugar is whipped with espresso to create a frothy layer.
✔ A Cuban tradition – Served in small cups and enjoyed socially.
✔ Smooth and creamy – The steamed milk softens the espresso’s boldness.
Ingredients for the Perfect Cortadito
✔ 1 shot (1 oz or 30ml) freshly brewed espresso
✔ 1-2 teaspoons sugar (for espuma)
✔ 1 oz (30ml) steamed milk (whole milk or evaporated milk)
✔ Espresso machine, Moka pot, or AeroPress
✔ Milk frother, steam wand, or stovetop method for steaming milk
✔ Small glass cup or demitasse for serving
✔ Tip: Use Cuban coffee brands like Café Bustelo or Pilon for the most authentic flavor.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Cortadito
Step 1: Brew a Strong Shot of Espresso
✔ If using an espresso machine, pull a single shot (1 oz or 30ml).
✔ If using a Moka pot, brew a strong, concentrated coffee.
✔ If using an AeroPress, use fine grounds and a short extraction time for a rich espresso-like coffee.
✔ Tip: Cuban espresso is typically darker and stronger than regular espresso.
Step 2: Make the Espuma (Sugar Foam)
✔ In a small cup, add 1-2 teaspoons of sugar.
✔ As soon as the espresso starts brewing, pour a few drops of the first coffee drops over the sugar.
✔ Whisk vigorously until the mixture turns light brown and foamy.
✔ Tip: A good espuma has a thick, caramel-like consistency.
Step 3: Steam the Milk
✔ Heat 1 oz (30ml) of milk until hot but not boiling.
✔ Use a milk frother or steam wand to create a light, creamy texture.
✔ Tip: Evaporated milk adds an extra creamy, slightly sweet flavor.
Step 4: Assemble the Cortadito
✔ Pour the brewed espresso over the espuma, mixing gently.
✔ Add the steamed milk, keeping a 1:1 or 2:1 coffee-to-milk ratio.
✔ Stir slightly to blend the flavors.
✔ Tip: Some variations use equal parts espresso and milk, while others use more coffee for a stronger taste.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
✔ Serve immediately in a small glass cup or demitasse.
✔ Optionally, sprinkle with cinnamon or cocoa powder for extra flavor.
✔ Tip: Cortadito is traditionally enjoyed sweet, but you can adjust sugar to taste.
Cortadito vs. Other Espresso Drinks
✔ Cortadito vs. Cortado – A Cortado has unsweetened steamed milk, while a Cortadito is pre-sweetened with espuma.
✔ Cortadito vs. Café con Leche – Café con Leche has more milk, while a Cortadito has just a touch of milk.
✔ Cortadito vs. Macchiato – A Macchiato has a dollop of foam, while a Cortadito is mixed with milk.
Cortadito Variations to Try
✔ Classic Cortadito – Made with steamed whole milk.
✔ Evaporated Milk Cortadito – Uses evaporated milk for a richer flavor.
✔ Iced Cortadito – Brew as usual, then chill and serve over ice.
✔ Spiced Cortadito – Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla.
✔ Caramel Cortadito – Stir in a drizzle of caramel syrup for sweetness.
Tips for the Best Cortadito Experience
✔ Use fresh, strong espresso – A rich, dark roast works best.
✔ Perfect the espuma – Whipping sugar with the first coffee drops is key.
✔ Adjust the coffee-to-milk ratio – More milk for a creamier version, less for a stronger taste.
✔ Experiment with sweeteners – Try brown sugar or condensed milk.
✔ Serve in a small cup – Cortadito is meant to be enjoyed in small, strong sips.
When to Drink a Cortadito
✔ As a morning coffee – Strong and energizing.
✔ For an afternoon pick-me-up – A quick, sweet espresso boost.
✔ As a social coffee – Best enjoyed with friends or family.
✔ When craving something bold yet creamy – The perfect mix of strength and smoothness.
Final Thoughts
Cortadito is a bold, sweet, and creamy Cuban coffee that blends strong espresso with a touch of milk and espuma for a rich and satisfying flavor. Whether you enjoy it classic, iced, or with a unique twist, mastering Cortadito at home brings the warmth of Cuban coffee culture to your daily routine.
Try making a traditional Cortadito or experiment with creative variations to find your perfect version. No matter how you enjoy it, this smooth and energizing coffee drink will always be a delightful experience!