What is a Cortado coffee?

A cortado coffee is the dream of every fan who loves a soft, creamy texture without losing the intense coffee flavour. This Spanish classic is easy to make and only has two ingredients: a good espresso and steamed milk. The secret lies in the perfect balance between the rich flavour of coffee and the subtle sweetness of milk. In this recipe, you’ll discover how to make a delicious cortado yourself, perfectly tailored to your taste. Let’s get cracking with this coffee!

What is a Cortado coffee?

A cortado is a Spanish coffee specialty that takes its name from the word “cortar,” meaning “to cut.” This refers to “cutting” the intense flavour of espresso with a small amount of steamed milk. The result is a balanced cup of coffee that isn’t as milky as a cappuccino, but also not as pure as an espresso.

The ratio of coffee to milk is typically 1:1, which is why the cortado is known for its rich flavour without being bitter. Unlike a cappuccino or latte, a cortado doesn’t have a foam layer. It’s a pure and simple drink, loved for its soft yet powerful character.

With its roots in Spain, the cortado is often served in a small glass, which sets it apart from other milk-based coffees. Today the cortado is popular worldwide and you’ll find it on the menu at many trendy coffee bars.

Ingredients for a Cortado

To make a perfect cortado, you only need a few things. The quality of the ingredients and your kit really make the difference here.

  • Coffee beans: Preferably use freshly ground coffee beans with a medium to dark roast. Beans such as a Colombian or Brazilian variety work perfectly.
  • Espresso machine: An espresso machine is needed to pull a strong, concentrated espresso.
  • Milk: For an authentic cortado, use whole milk. This is lightly steamed to a creamy texture.
  • Milk frother or steam wand: Use a milk frother or the steam wand of your espresso machine to heat the milk.
  • Glass or small cup: A cortado is traditionally served in a small glass of around 120 ml.

Here’s how to make a perfect Cortado coffee

Step 1: Pull a strong espresso

  • Use your espresso machine to pull a double espresso (about 50-60 ml).
  • Make sure the coffee is well extracted for a rich flavour.

Step 2: Heat the milk

  • Pour about 50-60 ml of whole milk into a milk jug.
  • Use a steam wand or milk frother to heat the milk. Keep the temperature around 60-65°C. The milk should be lightly creamy, without a foam layer.

Step 3: Combine coffee and milk

  • Slowly pour the steamed milk into the espresso. The ratio is 1:1, so make sure the coffee and milk are perfectly balanced.
  • If you’re serving it in a glass, you can admire the beautiful layers.

Step 4: Optional! Add something extra

  • Want something special? Sprinkle a little cocoa or cinnamon on top for extra flavour.

Did you know there are also variations of the Cortado?

Oat milk cortado

For a plant-based option, you can replace whole milk with oat milk. Oat milk has a creamy texture and a subtle sweetness that pairs perfectly with espresso. Use a barista version for better frothing and a smoother texture.

Flavoured cortado

Fancy a twist? Add a splash of your favourite syrup, such as vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut. Add the syrup to the espresso before adding the milk, so the flavours mix nicely.

Spiced cortado

A hint of cinnamon or cardamom can give your cortado a warm, aromatic touch. Sprinkle the spices over the milk, or stir them through the espresso.

A cortado is the perfect coffee for those who love a harmonious mix of powerful espresso and creamy milk. Whether you go for the classic version or one of the creative variations, with this recipe and these tips you’ll make a cortado at home that tastes just as good as in your favourite coffee shop.

Frequently asked questions about the Cortado
What is a cortado?

A cortado is an espresso with an equal amount of warm milk, which softens the sharp edges of the coffee without overpowering the flavour. The milk is lightly steamed and has hardly any foam, resulting in a creamy and balanced coffee.

What is the difference between a cortado and a flat white?

A cortado contains less milk than a flat white and has a stronger coffee flavour. A flat white, on the other hand, has a microfoam-like milk texture and is usually made with a double ristretto, which makes it a bit creamier.

In which glass do you serve a cortado?

A cortado is traditionally served in a small glass of 120-150 ml. This size helps to perfectly maintain the balance between coffee and milk.

Which milk is best for a cortado?

Whole milk works best, as it gives the coffee a smooth and creamy texture. If you prefer a plant-based alternative, oat milk is a good choice due to its neutral flavour and excellent frothing properties.

How do you make a cortado at home?

To make a cortado, prepare a double espresso and add an equal amount of warm milk (without much foam). Serve immediately in a small glass and enjoy!