The Cortado is a refined, espresso-based coffee drink that originated in Spain and has since made its way into specialty cafés around the world. The word cortado means “cut” in Spanish, referring to how the espresso is “cut” with a small amount of steamed milk to reduce its acidity without losing its bold character.
Unlike lattes or cappuccinos, which feature larger amounts of milk and foam, the Cortado is all about balance—equal parts espresso and steamed milk, typically in a 1:1 ratio. This creates a concentrated, silky coffee experience that’s strong but smooth, bold but approachable.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything about the Cortado: its origins, how it differs from other espresso drinks, step-by-step brewing instructions, creative variations, expert tips, and more. Whether you’re a home barista or a café enthusiast, this article will help you master the Cortado like a pro.
What Is a Cortado?
A Cortado is a small coffee drink made with a double shot of espresso (2 oz / 60ml) and an equal amount of steamed milk (2 oz / 60ml). It is served in a small 4–5 oz glass (often a Gibraltar glass), offering a perfect blend of coffee strength and milk sweetness.
Unlike milk-forward drinks like lattes or flat whites, the Cortado keeps the focus on the espresso, with the milk playing a complementary, not dominant, role. The result is a velvety, rich coffee that is ideal for sipping slowly and mindfully.
Why Is the Cortado Special?
✔ Perfect espresso-to-milk ratio – A 1:1 balance enhances the boldness of espresso while softening bitterness.
✔ Smooth, silky texture – The milk is steamed lightly, creating creaminess without foam overload.
✔ Small and concentrated – Served in a 4–5 oz glass, it delivers impact without dilution.
✔ Minimalist and elegant – Simple ingredients, big flavor, and timeless presentation.
Cortado vs Other Espresso Drinks
Let’s clarify how the Cortado compares to other popular espresso-based beverages:
| Drink | Espresso | Milk | Texture | Total Volume | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cortado | 2 oz | 2 oz | Lightly steamed | 4–5 oz | Balanced and strong |
| Latte | 1–2 oz | 6–10 oz | Creamy + foam | 8–12 oz | Milk-dominant and mild |
| Cappuccino | 1–2 oz | 2 oz milk + 2 oz foam | Foamy and airy | 6 oz | Equal parts espresso, milk, foam |
| Flat White | 2 oz | 4 oz | Velvety microfoam | 6 oz | Strong but smoother than Cortado |
| Macchiato | 1 oz | A dash | Just a “mark” | 1–2 oz | Mostly espresso with a spot of milk |
Ingredients for the Perfect Cortado
To make an authentic Cortado at home, you’ll need:
- 2 oz (60ml) fresh espresso (double shot)
- 2 oz (60ml) steamed milk (whole milk preferred, or oat/almond milk as alternatives)
- Optional: pinch of cinnamon, vanilla extract, or flavored syrup for creative variations
Equipment:
- Espresso machine, Moka pot, or AeroPress with espresso filter
- Steam wand, milk frother, or stovetop milk steamer
- Gibraltar glass or any small 4–5 oz coffee glass
How to Make a Cortado at Home: Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brew a Double Shot of Espresso
Use your espresso machine or Moka pot to brew 2 oz (60ml) of strong espresso. If you’re using an AeroPress, go for a fine grind, high pressure, and short extraction time to mimic espresso intensity.
💡 Pro Tip: Use freshly roasted beans with chocolate, caramel, or nutty undertones—they pair beautifully with milk.
Step 2: Steam the Milk
- Pour 2 oz (60ml) of cold milk into a steaming pitcher.
- Steam to around 140°F to 150°F (60–65°C), being careful not to create too much foam.
- The goal is a velvety, warm milk with no big bubbles.
💡 Barista Note: Unlike cappuccinos, you want minimal foam—just a creamy, pourable texture.
Step 3: Combine Espresso and Milk
- Pour your brewed espresso into a small glass.
- Slowly add the steamed milk on top in a 1:1 ratio.
- The milk should blend seamlessly with the espresso without floating as foam.
☕ Serving Note: Traditional cortados are not layered—avoid the “latte art” look here.
Step 4: Serve Immediately
- Serve hot and fresh in a 4–5 oz Gibraltar glass or espresso cup.
- No need for sugar—Cortados are naturally balanced and slightly sweet due to the steamed milk.
Cortado Variations You Can Try
🧊 Iced Cortado – Pour espresso over ice and add cold milk. A refreshing summer option.
🍯 Honey Cortado – Stir in a teaspoon of honey into the espresso before adding milk.
🍦 Affogato Cortado – Pour over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert-style twist.
🍮 Caramel Cortado – Add a shot of caramel syrup to the espresso for a sweet treat.
🌿 Vanilla Almond Cortado – Use almond milk and a dash of vanilla extract for a nutty variation.
🍫 Mocha Cortado – Mix in 1 tsp cocoa powder for a chocolate-infused twist.
Tips for the Best Cortado Experience
✔ Use high-quality espresso beans – Freshly ground beans with low acidity work best.
✔ Don’t overheat the milk – Higher temperatures destroy the milk’s natural sweetness.
✔ Avoid excessive foam – A cortado should never look like a cappuccino.
✔ Use the right glass – Serving in a 4–5 oz glass preserves the balance and tradition.
✔ Drink immediately – A cortado is best served fresh before milk and espresso start to separate.
Ideal Times to Enjoy a Cortado
🕖 Morning jumpstart – Small but strong, it’s a perfect start to the day.
📚 Mid-day focus – Great for study sessions or work breaks.
🍽️ After meals – Acts as a refined digestif, especially after lunch or dinner.
💬 Café conversations – A sophisticated drink to enjoy during thoughtful talks or solo reflection.
Food Pairings That Complement Cortado
- Dark chocolate
- Almond biscotti
- Butter croissants
- Lemon tart
- Oatmeal cookies
- Dried fruits and nuts
- Cheese toast or savory pastry
FAQs About Cortado
Is a Cortado stronger than a latte?
Yes. Though both use espresso, a latte has much more milk, which dilutes the coffee’s strength. Cortado is smaller and more concentrated.
Can I make a Cortado with non-dairy milk?
Absolutely. Oat milk and almond milk work well, especially when steamed properly. Coconut milk may overpower the coffee’s flavor.
Is there caffeine in a Cortado?
Yes. It contains the same amount of caffeine as a double shot of espresso (about 120–140 mg), but the milk makes it easier to sip.
Can I sweeten a Cortado?
You can, but traditionally it’s served unsweetened. If needed, add a touch of honey, maple syrup, or vanilla.
Final Thoughts
The Cortado is a beautiful example of how less can be more. With just two simple ingredients—espresso and steamed milk—it creates a refined, balanced coffee drink that’s both bold and smooth. Unlike milk-dominated options, it celebrates the espresso’s richness while offering a gentle creaminess that makes each sip luxurious.
Whether you enjoy it straight, iced, or flavored, mastering the Cortado at home is a rewarding way to elevate your coffee game. It’s the perfect drink for those who love strong coffee but appreciate finesse in flavor and presentation.
☕ Ready to make your own? Try the traditional Cortado first—then unleash your creativity with your favorite variations. Either way, this small yet mighty coffee will quickly earn a permanent place in your daily ritual.