What is a Cortado Coffee?

From its humble beginnings in Spain to its international acclaim, the cortado continues to be a delightful way to enjoy espresso. It can also vary in different regions, for example:
Latin America: The traditional cortado reigns supreme in many Latin American countries, often served alongside a light breakfast or pastry. Here, it's commonly known as "café cortado" and revered for its balanced flavour and smooth texture.
Gibraltar (Spain): This twist on the traditional cortado is served in a slightly larger glass, around 125ml. They also use a bolder espresso shot, creating a more robust coffee experience with a bigger serving size.

Comparing a cortado vs. macchiato shows another difference. A macchiato is an espresso with just a small amount of frothy milk. This makes it stronger than a cortado. For a tasty macchiato, you can try our Latte Macchiato Pods...

One reason people love the cortado is its simplicity. It does not have the frothy milk of a cappuccino or the amount of milk in a latte. Instead, it offers a straightforward blend of coffee and milk. This makes it a perfect choice for those who want to enjoy the taste of coffee without too much milk or foam. Another reason for its popularity is its size. The small 125ml serving is just right for a quick coffee break. It provides a good amount of caffeine without too much.

There are many ways to enjoy a cortado. Some people like to have it with a sweet treat like a pastry or a piece of chocolate. The smooth, balanced flavour of the cortado pairs well with sweet foods. Others prefer to enjoy it on its own, savouring the rich taste of the espresso and milk. If you are making a cortado at home, you can experiment with different types of milk. Some people prefer whole milk for its creamy texture, while others like to use almond milk or oat milk for a different flavour. You can also try adding a touch of sweetener or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a special touch. To sum up, a cortado coffee is a simple yet delicious drink that balances the strong taste of espresso with the smoothness of milk. It’s a great choice for anyone who loves coffee. Whether you are at a café or making it at home, a cortado is worth trying. Its simplicity, elegance, and rich flavour make it stand out in the crowded coffee landscape.