🇪🇸 Spain · Drinks
Café Cortado (Spanish Espresso with a Dash of Milk)
By eatmundo · July 7, 2026
A Café Cortado is a quintessential Spanish coffee experience, balancing the intensity of a strong espresso with a small, precise 'cut' of steamed milk. This short, elegant drink is perfect for those who appreciate the robust flavor of coffee softened just slightly, making it a popular choice throughout the day in Spain.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Prepare your espresso machine: Ensure your espresso machine is preheated and ready to brew. Use freshly ground coffee beans for the best flavor.
- 2
Brew a fresh espresso: Extract a single shot (approx. 30ml / 1 oz) of high-quality espresso directly into a small, preheated glass or cortado cup. The crema should be rich and golden-brown.
- 3
Steam the milk: Pour approximately 60ml (approx. 2 oz) of cold milk, preferably whole milk for creaminess, into a small pitcher. Steam the milk until it is hot but not boiling, with a very thin layer of fine microfoam. Aim for a temperature around 60-65°C (140-150°F).
- 4
Pour the milk: Gently swirl the steamed milk in the pitcher to eliminate any larger bubbles and create a smooth, velvety texture.
- 5
Add to espresso: Carefully pour a small dash of the steamed milk (approx. 10-15ml / 0.3-0.5 oz) into the center of the espresso. The milk should 'cut' through the dark espresso, hence the name "cortado" (cut).
- 6
Serve immediately: The Café Cortado is meant to be enjoyed hot and fresh. Serve it promptly, often without sugar, allowing the balance of coffee and milk to shine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of milk is best for a Cortado?+
Whole milk is typically preferred for its creaminess and ability to create a good microfoam, which enhances the texture and flavor balance with the strong espresso. Low-fat or plant-based milks can also be used, but may yield a different texture.
What's the difference between a Cortado and a Macchiato?+
A Cortado has a higher milk-to-espresso ratio, where the milk 'cuts' the espresso. A Macchiato (espresso macchiato) is just espresso 'stained' with a tiny dollop of milk foam on top, having a much stronger coffee flavor.
Why is my milk not frothing well?+
Ensure your milk is very cold before steaming. The steam wand should be properly submerged and angled to create a vortex for microfoam. Clean your steam wand thoroughly after each use.
Should a Cortado be served with sugar?+
Traditionally, a Cortado is enjoyed without sugar to appreciate the balance between the intense espresso and the small amount of milk. However, personal preference always dictates, so sugar can be offered alongside.
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