Cortado
Unsplash

Cortado

Spain
Spain

Cortado is known for its simple but perfect balance of espresso and warm, steamed milk. Originating from Spain, the cortado is designed to reduce the acidity and bitterness of espresso with a 1:1 ratio of milk milk to smooth out the flavor, without overpowering the coffee like a cappucinno would. Cortado is the opposite to milk-heavy drinks like lattes or cappuccinos, making it a favorite among those who prefer a string coffee experience but not as intense as a single shot of espresso or a caffe macciato.

 

Contents

 

Coffee Beans and Caffeine Content in Cortado

Cortado is made using a shot of espresso, which means it will be mostly robusta to add the intensity and caffeine but with a slice of arabica to add the flavor. The caffeine content of a Cortado is the same as in a single espresso shot (80mg) in a 30ml (1oz) shot.

 

Origin of Cortado

The word “Cortado” in Spanish means to cut something, and it this case it reflects the part of the process of making by “cutting” the espresso with a small amount of milk. Cortado has its roots in Iberian Peninsula of Spain and Portugal, where it is served as a afternoon pick-me-up coffee cup.

 

What's the Difference? Cortado vs. Macchiato

For those familiar with Italian coffee drink Macchiato, must be wondering if Cortado is a Spanish counterpart to the Italian Macchiato and what is the difference. The difference between Cortado and Macchiato is that a Macchiato is an espresso “stained” with one or two spoons of milk, while the Cortado uses the same amount of milk and Espresso.

 

How to make a Cortado

Cortado is made by mixing equal parts espresso and steamed milk:

  • Espresso: A single espresso shot forms the base, providing the intensity and coffeine.
  • Steamed Milk: Lightly stem the milk but without creating the foam. Add the milk in a 1:1 ratio with the espresso.
    This will result in a small but still strong coffee that should a small glass cup or a small mug.

 

Watch this video for a step-by-step guide on how to make a Cortado:

 

 

Variations of Cortado

There are several variations of Cortado, depenging on the geographical location or season:

  • Leche y Leche: A variation of Cortado served in the Canary Islands. Along with the standard ingredients of espresso and steamed milk, Leche y Leche adds a layer of condensed milk (leche) that drops to the bottom of the glass.
  • Cortado Condensada: Similar to the “Leche y Leche,” but with a sweetened condensed milk to add a sweet, dessert-like flavor to the drink.

  • Iced Cortado: In warmer seasons, cortado is served chilled, served over ice with cold milk to maintain its balanced flavor while providing a refreshing cool-down.

     

 

Cortado Facts and Trivia

  • The Perfect Glass: Cortado is traditionally served in a small glass called a "Gibraltar" in the U.S., which is as well an alternative name for a Cortado.
  • We know it is not a Macchiato: While some might think it's to the Italian Macchiato, the main difference is in a 1:1 espresso milk ratio in the Cortado.
  • Cortado Day: Even thought it is not recognised as Cortado day, the 20th of December is celebrated as Cortado day by some coffee enthusiasts, especially in the Iberian Peninsula of Spain and Portugal and Latin America.