What Is a Cortado Coffee

What Is a Cortado Coffee?

If you love espresso based coffee drinks, you may have wondered: what is a cortado coffee? A cortado is a small but beautifully balanced coffee drink that offers harmony between the boldness of espresso and the smooth, creamy texture of warm milk.

What Is a Cortado Coffee Drink?

A cortado (from the Spanish word “cortar”, meaning “to cut”) is created by cutting a shot of espresso with an equal amount of warm milk. This balances the strength of the espresso while reducing acidity without taking away its intensity.

A cortado is typically served:

  • Using equal parts espresso and steamed milk

  • With just a small amount of microfoam

  • In a small glass rather than a traditional cup

  • With a serving size of roughly 4–5oz

Because a cortado is an espresso softened with warm milk, it sits between bold and smooth — ideal for those who enjoy a strong, silky drink.

Cortado vs Cappuccino

At first glance, a cortado and a cappuccino can look similar, but they differ significantly in milk texture and the ratio of espresso to milk:

Feature Cortado Cappuccino
Espresso to milk ratio 1:1 1:2
Milk texture Lightly steamed Frothy & airy
Strength Stronger Milder
Serving size Typically served in 4–5oz 6–8oz

A cappuccino offers a lighter, foam-forward profile. A cortado offers a more creamy texture without the thick foam layer.

Cortado vs Macchiato

For those exploring based coffee drinks, it helps to understand cortado vs. macchiato.

A macchiato uses a double espresso “marked” with only a small amount of milk foam.

  • Macchiato: Much stronger, minimal milk

  • Cortado: Softened espresso using an equal amount of warm milk

If you're looking for a gentler version of a macchiato, the cortado is a great middle ground.

Cortado vs Flat White

The cortado vs. flat white comparison is another common one:

  • Cortado: A 1:1 ratio, lightly steamed milk, smaller serving size

  • Flat White: More milk, silky microfoam, smoother finish

A flat white has a creamier texture overall, while the cortado maintains stronger espresso intensity.

How to Make a Cortado at Home

Making a cortado at home is easier than it seems, especially if you already enjoy other espresso drinks.

You’ll Need:

  • An espresso machine

  • Fresh coffee beans

  • Milk (any type you prefer)

Steps:

  1. Brew a double espresso using your espresso machine or a strong base.

  2. Steam milk until it’s hot but with only a light layer of microfoam — just the right amount of steamed milk.

  3. Pour the milk over the espresso, combining equal parts espresso and steamed milk.

  4. Serve immediately in a small glass for an authentic experience.

For home brewing, try using blends with rich flavour such as:

These create a smoother, more well-rounded cortado.

What Type of Coffee Beans Are Best for a Cortado?

Choosing the right beans matters. For a cortado, you want beans that deliver:

  • A rich crema

  • Smooth body

  • Balanced acidity

Medium or medium-dark roasts work especially well.

Recommended options:

Exploring Different Types of Coffee

If you enjoy experimenting with different types of coffee, here’s how a cortado compares to other espresso drinks:

  • Macchiato: Espresso topped with a small amount of milk foam

  • Flat White: Espresso with velvety microfoam

  • Latte: Espresso with plenty of steamed milk and a creamy finish

  • Cappuccino: Espresso with steamed milk and a thick foam layer

You can also read more in our guide:
What Is a Macchiato Coffee?

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