How to Make a Cortado Coffee – A Barista’s Guide to the Smoothest Espresso Drink

Ever wondered why coffee lovers rave about Cortado coffee? If espresso feels too intense and a latte feels too milky, the Cortado is your golden middle. It’s a bold yet smooth espresso drink balanced with just the right amount of milk—and it’s incredibly easy to make at home.

As someone who’s pulled thousands of espresso shots, I can tell you: once you’ve had a perfectly crafted Cortado, there’s no going back. And if you’re into mastering your home brewing skills, don’t miss our guide on How to Make Robusta Coffee the Right Way—it’s a game-changer for bold coffee lovers.

What is a Cortado Coffee?

A Cortado coffee is made with equal parts espresso and steamed milk. The name “Cortado” comes from the Spanish word “cortar,” meaning “to cut”—because the milk cuts through the espresso’s acidity and intensity without overpowering it.

This drink is short, strong, and smooth. Think of it as a smaller, more balanced version of your latte—no foam, no sugar, no nonsense. Just espresso softened by milk. It's especially popular among those who enjoy a pure coffee flavor but prefer a less aggressive hit than a straight espresso shot.

Ingredients You’ll Need for a Cortado Coffee Recipe

• Freshly ground coffee beans (medium or dark roast works best)

• Filtered water

• Milk (whole milk preferred for better mouthfeel, but alternatives like oat or almond work too)

  
  

Essential Equipment

• Espresso machine or stovetop Moka pot

• Steam wand or milk frother

• Small coffee scale (optional, for consistency)

• Cortado glass or small cup (4 to 5 oz capacity)

If you're using a Moka pot instead of an espresso machine, be sure to use freshly ground beans and tamp lightly for richer flavor.

How to Make a Cortado Coffee at Home

1. Grind Your Beans Right

Use about 18–20 grams of coffee for a double espresso shot. Your grind should be fine—think table salt. Freshly ground coffee makes a noticeable difference. For best results, grind just before brewing.

2. Brew a Double Espresso

Using your espresso machine or Moka pot, brew two shots of strong, rich espresso. Pour into your warmed Cortado glass. A double shot ensures enough body to hold up to the milk.

3. Steam or Heat the Milk

Steam about 2 oz of milk. Your goal is silky, hot milk with zero foam—not frothy like a cappuccino. If using a frother, tap out any bubbles. Heating milk to around 130–140°F (55–60°C) is ideal for a velvety finish.

4. Pour Milk into Espresso

Gently pour the steamed milk over the espresso. The ideal Cortado coffee ratio is 1:1—equal parts milk and espresso. The milk should mix seamlessly without creating layers.

5. Serve and Sip

No latte art, no sweeteners. Just pure espresso flavor with smooth milk. The result? A drink that lets coffee’s natural richness shine.

And for those who prefer their coffee chilled and indulgent, take a break with our delicious Cinnamon Roll Frozen Coffee—a cozy treat in frozen form.

Why Cortado Coffee Stands Out

• Perfect strength – bold espresso flavor, smoothed just enough

• Quick to make – less than 5 minutes start to finish

• No added sugar – great for low-sugar diets

• Balanced experience – not too milky, not too bitter

This drink is an ideal choice for people looking to transition from strong black coffee to milk-based espresso drinks—or vice versa.

Pro Tips from a Coffee Nerd ☕

• Warm your glass first—it keeps the drink warmer longer.

• Whole milk adds creaminess, but barista oat milk works wonders too.

• Don’t skimp on bean quality. A great Cortado starts with great coffee.

• Use a thermometer to avoid overheating the milk; burnt milk can ruin the taste.

  
  

Cortado Coffee FAQs

Is a Cortado stronger than a latte? Yes. A Cortado has less milk, so the espresso flavor is more pronounced and robust.

What’s the best milk for a Cortado? Whole milk gives the richest texture, but oat milk is a great dairy-free option that maintains body.

Can I make a Cortado without an espresso machine? Yes! A Moka pot or even an AeroPress can get you close to espresso-level strength.

What is the ideal cortado ratio? The standard cortado ratio is 1:1—equal parts espresso and steamed milk.