What is Cortado Coffee: Definition, Origin, and How to Make

Coffee culture has expanded worldwide, introducing not unique brewing methods but also a wide variety of drinks with distinct flavors and traditions. Among these is cortado coffee, a drink that has found its way from Spanish cafés to specialty coffee shops around the world.

But what exactly is a cortado? Where did it come from, how is it made, and how does it compare to other espresso-based beverages? In this article, we’ll explore the cortado coffee definition, its cultural roots, preparation methods, comparisons, and even ideal food pairings.

What is Cortado Coffee?

At its core, cortado coffee is an espresso-based beverage that combines a shot of espresso with an equal or slightly larger amount of steamed milk. Cortado coffee is not heavily textured or foamy. Instead, it’s lightly steamed to create a smooth balance between the strong, bold flavors of espresso and the soft, creamy texture of milk.

The word cortado comes from the Spanish verb cortar, meaning “to cut.” In essence, the milk “cuts” through the espresso’s acidity and intensity, resulting in a beverage that is both rich and approachable.

A traditional cortado is typically served in a small glass (about 4 to 5 ounces) rather than a large ceramic cup, reinforcing its identity as a concise, flavorful drink rather than a large, indulgent one.

Key Characteristics of Cortado Coffee

• Espresso-to-milk ratio is usually 1:1 or 1:1.5.
• Milk is steamed but not frothy, ensuring a silky texture.
• Served in a small glass, often without added flavors or toppings.
• Focuses on highlighting the quality of cortado coffee beans used in the espresso.

Origin of Cortado Coffee

The origin of cortado coffee can be traced to Spain, particularly the Basque Country, though variations of milk-cut espresso drinks appear across Latin cultures. In Spain, the cortado became a staple of café life, often consumed in the afternoon as a lighter alternative to pure espresso.

From Spain, the cortado spread to Portugal and Latin America, where it developed regional variations. In Cuba, for example, the cortadito is a close relative of espresso, with a small amount of milk, but often sweetened with sugar. Similarly, in Argentina and other South American countries, cortados are widely enjoyed as part of the daily café culture.

By the late 20th and early 21st century, the cortado began appearing in specialty coffee shops in the United States and beyond, where baristas appreciated its straightforward balance and ability to showcase the quality of cortado coffee beans.

Today, Cortado stands alongside cappuccinos, lattes, and macchiatos as a globally recognized espresso-based drink.

How to Make a Cortado Coffee

Making a cortado at home or in a café requires attention to detail, but it is not overly complicated. The key is achieving balance—ensuring that the espresso and milk complement each other without one overpowering the other.

Ingredients:

• Freshly roasted cortado coffee beans (medium-to-dark roast recommended)
• Fresh filtered water
• Whole milk (though alternatives such as oat, almond, or soy milk can also be used)

Equipment:

• Espresso machine (or a stovetop moka pot for a simplified version)
• Milk steaming wand or frother
• Small glass (4–5 ounces capacity)

Step-by-Step Method:

1. Brew the Espresso
   Grind cortado coffee beans finely and pull a double shot (about 2 ounces) using an espresso machine. The rich base is crucial for the cortado’s flavor.
2. Steam the Milk
   Use the steam wand to gently heat the milk. Aim for a smooth, velvety texture without large bubbles. The milk should reach around 130–150°F (55–65°C). Unlike cappuccinos, you don’t want a thick foam—just silky, lightly aerated milk.
3. Combine the Two
   Pour the milk over the espresso in a small glass. The typical ratio is 1:1, but some prefer slightly more milk (up to 1.5 parts milk to 1 part espresso).
4. Serve Immediately
   Cortado is meant to be enjoyed fresh and hot. It’s often served without sweeteners or flavor syrups, allowing the coffee’s natural profile to shine.

Cortado Coffee Comparisons

While cortado coffee has its own identity, many people confuse it with similar drinks. Let’s break down how it compares to other espresso-based beverages:

Cortado vs. Macchiato

A macchiato (“stained” in Italian) is espresso topped with just a dollop of foamed milk. Unlike a cortado, the milk does not significantly soften the espresso but merely “marks” it. The cortado, by contrast, offers a more balanced, mellow flavor.

Cortado vs. Cappuccino

Cappuccinos are traditionally one-third espresso, one-third steamed milk, and one-third foam, creating a layered texture and larger drink (around 6 ounces). Cortados are smaller, with less froth and a smoother texture. The focus remains on espresso rather than the creamy foam.

Cortado vs. Flat White

Flat whites, originating in Australia and New Zealand, also emphasize smooth milk texture but typically have a higher milk-to-espresso ratio than cortados (closer to 1:2). This makes flat whites creamier and larger than cortados.

Read also: Cortado vs Flat White, What’s the Real Difference?

Cortado vs. Latte

Lattes are larger drinks (8–12 ounces or more) with significant amounts of steamed milk and microfoam. They are milder and creamier than cortados, making them a very different experience. Cortados are for those who want a stronger coffee presence.

Food Pairing for Cortado Coffee

The rich yet balanced flavor of cortado coffee makes it versatile for food pairings. Since it is not overly sweet or heavy, it pairs well with both sweet and savory dishes.

Sweet Pairings:

• Pastries: Croissants, Danish pastries, and almond biscotti highlight the espresso notes.
• Cakes: Light sponge cakes or almond-based desserts balance the cortado’s bitterness.
• Chocolate: Dark chocolate or chocolate truffles enhance the roasted flavors of cortado coffee beans.

Savory Pairings:

• Cheese Toast: The creaminess of cheese complements the smooth milk in a cortado.
• Spanish Tapas: In keeping with its origin, small savory snacks like tortilla española or ham croquettes make a natural pairing.
• Breakfast Items: Cortado coffee pairs perfectly with eggs, avocado toast, or a light omelet.

Conclusion

The journey of cortado coffee from Spanish cafés to international coffee shops highlights how global coffee culture evolves. Defined by its equal balance of espresso and milk, the drink offers a clear expression of cortado coffee beans while remaining smooth and approachable.

Its history reflects Iberian traditions, while its preparation emphasizes simplicity and balance. Compared with other espresso-based beverages, it occupies a unique middle ground—stronger than a latte but creamier than a macchiato. And when paired with the right food, a cortado elevates both the drink and the meal.

Whether you’re a casual coffee drinker or a dedicated enthusiast, understanding the cortado coffee definition helps you appreciate this timeless beverage. Next time you visit a café or prepare coffee at home, consider trying a cortado—it just might become your new favorite way to enjoy espresso.