A cortado is a bold yet smooth espresso-based drink that perfectly balances strong coffee with steamed milk. Unlike a latte or cappuccino, a cortado has equal parts espresso and milk, creating a rich, velvety texture without excess foam.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make a barista-quality cortado at home, including tips on milk steaming and the best coffee beans to use.
1. What Is a Cortado?
A cortado is a Spanish-style coffee drink made with:
✔️ A double shot of espresso (30–60ml)
✔️ An equal amount of steamed milk (30–60ml)
Cortado vs. Other Coffee Drinks
| Drink | Espresso | Steamed Milk | Milk Foam | Flavor Strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cortado | 1:1 ratio | Smooth, warm | None | Strong but balanced |
| Latte | 1:3 ratio | More milk | Light foam | Creamier, milkier |
| Flat White | 1:2 ratio | Less milk | Thin microfoam | Stronger than a latte |
| Cappuccino | 1:1:1 ratio | Equal parts milk & foam | Thick foam | Bold and airy |
🔹 Cortados stand out because they have no excess foam—just warm, silky milk that enhances the espresso.
2. Ingredients for the Perfect Cortado
✔️ 2 shots of espresso (60ml / 2 oz)
✔️ 2 oz steamed milk (whole milk or oat milk for the best texture)
💡 Pro Tip: Use whole milk for the creamiest texture or oat milk (barista edition) for a dairy-free option.
3. Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Cortado
Step 1: Brew the Espresso
- Use an espresso machine to pull a double shot of espresso (60ml / 2 oz).
- If you don’t have an espresso machine, use a Moka pot or AeroPress for a strong coffee substitute.
Step 2: Steam the Milk
1️⃣ Heat the milk to 55–65°C (130–150°F)—hot but not boiling.
2️⃣ Use a steam wand or milk frother to create a smooth texture with little to no foam.
💡 Pro Tip: The milk in a cortado should be warmed but not frothy like a cappuccino.
Step 3: Pour the Milk Over the Espresso
1️⃣ Pour the steamed milk directly into the espresso, keeping the ratio 1:1.
2️⃣ Serve in a small glass (4–6 oz) for an authentic cortado experience.
💡 For extra flair: Sprinkle a touch of cinnamon or cocoa powder on top!
4. Cortado Variations to Try
🔥 Iced Cortado – Pour the cortado over ice for a refreshing version.
🔥 Vanilla Cortado – Add a dash of vanilla syrup for extra sweetness.
🔥 Caramel Cortado – Drizzle caramel sauce on top for a richer taste.
🔥 Spanish Cortado (Café Bombón) – Use sweetened condensed milk instead of regular milk.
5. Best Coffee Beans for a Cortado
✔️ Medium to dark roast espresso blends – For a bold, smooth taste.
✔️ Single-origin beans from Colombia or Brazil – Naturally sweet and rich.
✔️ Dark roast beans – If you prefer a stronger coffee punch.
💡 Pro Tip: A cortado is best enjoyed immediately to experience the perfect balance of espresso and milk.
Final Thoughts
A cortado is the perfect coffee drink for those who love bold espresso with just the right amount of milk. Whether you enjoy it hot, iced, or flavored, this simple yet elegant drink is a must-try for coffee lovers. ☕✨