Coffee has always been more than just a drink—it’s a ritual, a cultural experience, and in many places, a symbol of hospitality. In Cuban culture, few beverages embody this better than the Cortadito. This iconic espresso-based drink is bold, sweet, and slightly creamy, offering a perfect balance between intensity and smoothness. Whether enjoyed on a busy Havana morning or shared among friends in a cozy kitchen, the Cortadito is a beloved part of daily life for many Cubans.
If you’ve ever had a Cortado and thought, “this is good, but it needs a little something extra,” then the Cortadito is your answer. What makes it unique? Espuma—a whipped sugar foam that adds a light caramel sweetness and a signature frothy layer. It’s this touch that elevates Cortadito from a standard coffee to a deeply rooted tradition.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore how to make a perfect Cortadito at home, discuss its origins, highlight popular variations, and share expert tips to enhance your Cuban coffee experience.
What is a Cortadito?
The Cortadito is a Cuban coffee drink made by mixing a strong shot of espresso with a small amount of steamed milk, typically in a 1:1 or 2:1 coffee-to-milk ratio. What sets it apart is the addition of espuma—a sweet, frothy foam made by beating sugar with the first drops of espresso during the brewing process.
This creates a drink that’s:
- Sweet and bold – The sugar foam balances the strength of the espresso.
- Smooth and creamy – Thanks to the touch of steamed milk.
- Rich in flavor – With deep, roasted notes and a caramelized aroma.
Often served in small glass cups or demitasses, the Cortadito is meant to be sipped slowly, often accompanied by conversation and connection.
The Cultural Importance of Cortadito
Coffee is central to daily life in Cuba. The Cortadito isn’t just a drink—it’s a symbol of hospitality, warmth, and tradition. It’s served during breakfast, offered to guests, enjoyed during work breaks, and sipped on porches with family.
The ritual of making Cortadito—especially the whipping of the espuma—is passed down through generations. Each family may have its own way of preparing it, adjusting the milk ratio or sugar amount to personal taste.
And while Cuban coffee culture shares similarities with other Latin traditions, the Cortadito stands out for its balance of robust intensity and approachable sweetness.
What Makes Cortadito So Special?
Let’s break down the elements that make this drink a true Cuban classic:
✔ Bold, Strong Flavor
Cuban coffee is known for its dark roast and intense extraction. Cortadito delivers all the strength of espresso, mellowed only slightly by milk.
✔ Pre-sweetened with Espuma
Unlike adding sugar afterward, Cortadito is sweetened from the start. The espuma is not only a sweetener but also adds a creamy texture and caramel flavor that can’t be replicated.
✔ Creamy and Smooth
The small splash of steamed milk brings balance and smoothness to the coffee, making it approachable even for those who don’t usually drink strong espresso.
✔ Sociable and Compact
Served in small cups, the Cortadito is perfect for quick sips and social moments. It’s common in homes, bakeries, and street-side cafés alike.
Ingredients for the Perfect Cortadito
To make a truly authentic Cortadito, you’ll need the following:
Core Ingredients:
- 1 shot (1 oz or 30 ml) of freshly brewed espresso
- 1–2 teaspoons of white sugar (for making espuma)
- 1 oz (30 ml) of steamed milk (whole milk or evaporated milk)
Optional Garnishes:
- A sprinkle of cinnamon or cocoa powder
- A few drops of vanilla extract or nutmeg for flavor
Equipment:
- Espresso machine, Moka pot, or AeroPress
- Small saucepan or milk frother
- Spoon or mini whisk for espuma
- Demitasse or small glass cup for serving
Tip: For the most authentic flavor, use a Cuban coffee brand like Café Bustelo, Pilon, or La Llave.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Traditional Cortadito
Let’s walk through the full process to prepare this beautiful drink right at home.
Step 1: Brew a Strong Shot of Espresso
Start with a rich, strong base.
- Use your espresso machine, Moka pot, or AeroPress to brew 1 oz (30 ml) of espresso.
- For the Moka pot, fill the bottom chamber with water, use finely ground Cuban coffee, and heat gently until the coffee starts to bubble up.
Expert Tip: The first few drops of espresso are the most concentrated—use them to make the espuma.
Step 2: Prepare the Espuma (Sugar Foam)
This is the signature element of a Cortadito.
Here’s how to make it:
- Add 1–2 teaspoons of sugar to a small metal or ceramic cup.
- As the espresso brews, capture the first few drops (about 1 teaspoon) and pour them over the sugar.
- Whip vigorously with a spoon until the mixture turns light brown, thick, and foamy.
This foam will sit on top of the drink and slightly dissolve into it, adding both sweetness and texture.
Pro Tip: You can also use a small electric frother or whisk, but a spoon and strong wrist are traditional.
Step 3: Steam or Heat the Milk
Warm 1 oz (30 ml) of milk until hot but not boiling. You can do this:
- In a small saucepan on the stove
- With a steam wand on your espresso machine
- Using a handheld milk frother
The milk should be steamed and slightly frothy, not foamed like in a cappuccino.
Option: Use evaporated milk instead of fresh milk for a richer, more traditional Cuban flavor.
Step 4: Assemble the Cortadito
Time to bring it all together.
- Add the prepared espuma to the bottom of your serving cup.
- Pour in the brewed espresso, stirring gently to combine with the espuma.
- Add the steamed milk on top in a 1:1 or 2:1 ratio depending on your taste.
- Optional: Sprinkle with cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a drizzle of caramel.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Cortadito immediately while hot and fresh. It’s meant to be sipped slowly, savored in small amounts.
The balance of sweetness, strength, and creaminess is what makes it so satisfying—every sip is rich and layered.
Cortadito vs. Other Espresso-Based Drinks
Let’s clear up how the Cortadito compares to similar coffee styles:
☕ Cortadito vs. Cortado
- Cortado is a Spanish drink: espresso cut with an equal amount of milk, unsweetened.
- Cortadito uses whipped sugar espuma, giving it a sweet, caramelized flavor.
☕ Cortadito vs. Café con Leche
- Café con Leche is made with a lot more milk, often 1:3 espresso to milk.
- Cortadito uses just a splash of milk, keeping the coffee front and center.
☕ Cortadito vs. Macchiato
- A Macchiato has a tiny amount of foam, no milk.
- A Cortadito is pre-sweetened and intentionally creamy with steamed milk.
Delicious Cortadito Variations to Try
Want to put your own twist on it? These variations offer something for everyone:
✔ Classic Cortadito
- Espresso, espuma, and steamed whole milk. A timeless classic.
✔ Evaporated Milk Cortadito
- Adds a richer, creamier flavor reminiscent of traditional Cuban households.
✔ Iced Cortadito
- Let the mixture cool slightly, pour over ice, and top with cold milk.
✔ Spiced Cortadito
- Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a drop of vanilla for warmth and complexity.
✔ Caramel Cortadito
- Stir in a teaspoon of caramel syrup for a dessert-like coffee experience.
Tips for the Best Cortadito Experience
To master this drink, keep these practical tips in mind:
- Use strong, dark coffee – Cuban-style espresso is essential for authenticity.
- Whip your espuma properly – It should be thick and light in color.
- Don’t skimp on sugar – This is meant to be a sweet coffee drink.
- Adjust milk to taste – Start with a small amount and add more if needed.
- Serve in small cups – A Cortadito is all about flavor intensity, not volume.
When Should You Drink a Cortadito?
This coffee fits into many moments of the day:
- In the morning – As a quick yet luxurious energy boost.
- Mid-afternoon – Perfect for powering through the rest of the day.
- After a meal – A sweet and strong pick-me-up.
- With company – Share a round of Cortaditos with friends or family.
It’s more than a coffee—it’s a shared experience, a break from the day, a reason to pause and enjoy.
Final Thoughts: Bringing Cuban Coffee Culture to Your Home
The Cortadito is a celebration of flavor, tradition, and connection. By mastering it at home, you not only enjoy a delicious drink but also experience a slice of Cuban coffee culture. Whether you stick with the classic version or experiment with spices and milk alternatives, this sweet, strong, and creamy coffee will become a treasured part of your routine.
So next time you need a coffee break, skip the ordinary and make a Cortadito instead—your taste buds (and maybe your guests) will thank you.