Cortado coffee is a delicious and unique coffee drink that is quickly gaining popularity among coffee enthusiasts. A cortado is a perfect balance of espresso and steamed milk, making it a great choice for those who want a strong coffee with a smooth finish.
In this blog post, we will explore the history, preparation, and differences of cortado coffee compared to other popular coffee drinks. We will also discuss variations, how to make it at home, and even pairing it with food. Dive in for best Cortado Coffee Recipe.
What is Cortado Coffee?
A cortado is a Spanish and Portuguese name for a coffee drink consisting of espresso cut with a equal part of warm milk to reduce the acidity. It typically served in a small glass, unlike a latte which is served in a larger cup.
According to the National Coffee Association, cortado is the second most popular coffee drink among specialty coffee shops, with 20% of specialty coffee shops offering it. This makes it a great option for coffee lovers looking for something new to try.
Differences between Cortado Coffee and Latte and cappuccino
Cortado coffee is often compared to lattes and cappuccinos, but there are some key differences.
Lattes have more milk and are served in a larger cup, while cappuccinos have more foam and a stronger espresso flavor. Cortado, on the other hand, has a perfect balance of espresso and steamed milk, making it a great choice for those who want a strong coffee with a smooth finish.
As an example, a cortado from a specialty coffee shop has on average 60 ml of coffee and 60ml of milk, while a latte has 60ml of coffee and 150ml of milk.
The Cortado coffee recipe
Cortado Coffee Made Easy: A Delicious Recipe to Try
Equipment
- Espresso machine or moka pot (for brewing the shot of espresso) For Brewing Coffee:
- Milk frother (for frothing the milk) For Steaming Milk:
- Small saucepan (if heating milk on the stove)
- Small glass or cup (for serving the cortado) For Assembling the Cortado:
- Spoon (for stirring in sugar or sweetener, if desired)
- Measuring spoons (for measuring any optional ingredients like sugar, cocoa powder, or cinnamon)
Ingredients
- 1 shot of espresso
- 1 ounce of steamed milk (preferably whole milk for creaminess)
- Optional Sugar or sweetener, to taste
- Optional Cocoa powder or cinnamon, for garnish
Instructions
- Brew a shot of espresso using an espresso machine or moka pot.1 shot of espresso
- While the espresso is brewing, steam 1 ounce of milk using a milk frother or heat it in a small saucepan until hot but not boiling.1 ounce of steamed milk (preferably whole milk for creaminess)
- Pour the shot of espresso into a small glass or cup.
- Slowly pour the steamed milk into the glass, maintaining a 1:1 ratio with the espresso.
- Optionally, sweeten to taste or sprinkle cinnamon on top.Optional Sugar or sweetener, to taste
- Serve immediately and enjoy your cortado coffee!
Notes
Tips:
Note: If you don’t have an espresso machine or milk frother, you can still make cortado-style coffee with a French press, pour-over, or other coffee-making methods. However, the final drink may have different texture and taste than the traditional cortado.Additional Points
Cortado coffee can be enjoyed in many different variations, such as adding flavor syrups or even a dash of cinnamon. It can also be made at home with a simple cortado coffee recipe, all you need is an espresso machine and a milk frother. Additionally, cortado coffee pairs well with a variety of foods, such as pastries, chocolate or even savory snacks.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cortado coffee is a delicious and unique coffee drink that is quickly gaining popularity among coffee enthusiasts. With its perfect balance of espresso and steamed milk, it is a great option for those looking for something new to try. Whether you enjoy it at a specialty coffee shop or make it at home, cortado coffee is sure to satisfy your coffee cravings. And if you want to take it to the next level, try pairing it with your favorite food, you’ll be surprised at how well they complement each other.
Nutrition
The nutrition facts for cortado coffee will vary depending on the type and amount of milk used, as well as any additional ingredients such as flavor syrups or sweeteners. Here is an estimate of the nutrition facts for a standard cortado coffee made with whole milk and no additional ingredients:
- Serving size: 1 cortado (approx. 2 oz)
- Calories: approximately 60-70 calories
- Fat: 2.5g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 30mg
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Protein: 3g
Please note that these numbers are approximate and may vary depending on the milk used and the serving size. The calorie intake is low, but bear in mind that if you add any sweetener or flavored syrups, the calorie count will increase.
What equipment do I need to make cortado coffee at home?
To make cortado coffee at home, you will need an espresso machine or a moka pot to brew the espresso, and a milk frother to steam the milk. You can also use other coffee-making methods like French press or pour-over, but the final drink may have a different texture and taste than the traditional cortado.
Can I use any type of milk for cortado coffee?
You can use any type of milk to make cortado coffee, including whole milk, skim milk, or non-dairy milk. Whole milk will give you a creamier and richer taste, while non-dairy milk options like soy or almond milk will make it suitable for lactose intolerant people.
Can I make cortado coffee with instant coffee?
No, cortado coffee should be made with freshly brewed espresso. Instant coffee will not have the same strength and taste as espresso.
How should I store leftover cortado coffee?
It is best to consume cortado coffee immediately after it is prepared, as the milk can separate and the flavor can change if it is stored. If you need to store leftovers, pour it into an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for no more than 24 hours.