What It Tastes Like
A cortado (kor-TAH-doh) is a small espresso drink made with equal parts espresso and steamed milk. You taste the espresso clearly, while the milk softens the edges and adds body.
The drink stays concentrated without becoming milky. It is stronger than a latte but less intense than straight espresso.
💡 Behind the Cup
A cortado works because of its ratio. Equal parts espresso and milk keep the drink concentrated while softening the sharper edges of straight espresso.
The milk is lightly textured, meaning it is steamed until smooth but not very foamy. Instead of forming a thick foam layer, it blends directly with the espresso.
Because the drink is small, the balance between coffee and milk remains consistent from the first sip to the last.
How to Order
Simple version:
"I'll have a cortado, please."
If the café isn’t familiar:
"Equal parts espresso and steamed milk, in a small cup."
With customization:
- "Cortado with oat milk, please."
- "Can I get a cortado with an extra shot?"
- "I'd like a cortado with a little sugar."
What to expect:
Cortados are usually served hot in a small 4–5 oz glass or cup.
Customize It
Milk
Whole milk is most common because it creates a smoother texture.
Alternative milks work, though thinner options may change the texture slightly.
See milk options.
Strength
For more intensity, ask for an extra shot — cafés will usually keep the same balanced style.
Sweetness
Not sweet by default. Sugar can be added, but many people prefer it plain to taste the espresso clearly.
See sweetness guide.
Common Confusion
"How is this different from a flat white?"
Both are strong milk drinks, but size and ratio differ:
- Cortado ≈ 4–5 oz, equal espresso and milk
- Flat white ≈ 5–6 oz, more milk with a thin microfoam layer
A cortado tastes stronger because it contains less milk.
Compare a cortado vs flat white to see how they differ.
"What about a macchiato?"
A macchiato is mostly espresso with a small amount of foam.
A cortado mixes milk and espresso evenly for balance.
See how a cortado compares to a macchiato.
"Can I get it iced?"
Some cafés will make one, but cortados are traditionally served hot. For something similar cold, try a small iced latte.
"How much caffeine does it have?"
A 120–150 ml (≈4–5 oz) serving typically contains 60–120 mg of caffeine, depending on whether it’s made with a single or double shot of espresso.
📌 Good to Know
Is a cortado stronger than a latte?
In terms of flavor, yes. Both drinks often use a double shot of espresso, but a cortado contains less milk, so the coffee comes through more clearly.
Regional Note
Cortado comes from Spain, where the word means “cut,” referring to espresso cut with milk.
Some specialty cafés use the name Gibraltar (jih-BRAWL-ter). The name refers to the small glass the drink is often served in, but the drink itself is the same style as a cortado.
Try Next
If you enjoy the balance of espresso and milk in a cortado, try a flat white for a slightly milkier version. If you want espresso without milk, try an americano.