Cortado vs Latte – Which One’s for You?
If you love coffee but feel overwhelmed by the number of espresso-based drinks available, you’re not alone. With so many options, it’s easy to get confused about what makes each one unique.
One common comparison is Cortado vs Latte—both are espresso drinks with milk, but they have distinct differences in taste, texture, and serving size.
So, how do you decide which one is right for you?
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about cortado vs latte, including their origins, flavor profiles, key differences, and how to make them at home. By the end, you’ll have a clear idea of which coffee suits your taste buds best!
What Is a Cortado?
A cortado is a simple yet flavorful espresso-based drink that originated in Spain. The name “cortado” comes from the Spanish word “cortar,” meaning “to cut,” which refers to how the milk cuts through the espresso’s intensity.
Key Characteristics of a Cortado:
✔ Espresso-to-Milk Ratio: 1:1 (equal parts espresso and steamed milk).
✔ Texture: Smooth and velvety, with little to no froth.
✔ Serving Size: Typically 4-5 oz, served in a small glass.
✔ Taste Profile: Balanced but bold—espresso-forward with a creamy finish.
✔ Ideal For: Those who enjoy a strong coffee taste with just a touch of milk.
How Is a Cortado Served?
A cortado is traditionally served in a small glass cup, sometimes called a Gibraltar glass (which is why it’s also known as a “Gibraltar” in some U.S. coffee shops). Unlike a cappuccino or latte, it has minimal froth, allowing the rich espresso flavor to shine through.
Variations of a Cortado:
- Gibraltar: A variation popularized in San Francisco, served in a 4.5 oz glass.
- Flavored Cortado: Some people enjoy adding vanilla, caramel, or cinnamon for a twist.
- Iced Cortado: Served over ice for a refreshing alternative.
Why Choose a Cortado?
If you’re looking for a small, strong, and smooth coffee that highlights espresso without being overly milky, a cortado is an excellent choice!
What Is a Latte?
A latte, short for caffè latte, is one of the most popular coffee drinks worldwide. Originating from Italy, the name means “milk coffee,” perfectly describing its smooth, creamy nature.
Key Characteristics of a Latte:
✔ Espresso-to-Milk Ratio: Around 1:3 to 1:5 (more milk than espresso).
✔ Texture: Creamy and frothy, thanks to microfoam.
✔ Serving Size: Typically 8-16 oz, served in a large cup or mug.
✔ Taste Profile: Mild, smooth, and milk-forward with a subtle espresso flavor.
✔ Ideal For: Those who enjoy a creamy coffee experience and like to sip slowly.
How Is a Latte Served?
A latte is usually served in a large ceramic mug or tall glass, allowing enough space for steamed milk and a layer of silky microfoam. The foam on top makes it ideal for latte art, a fun feature many baristas and coffee lovers enjoy.
Variations of a Latte:
- Flavored Latte: Common options include vanilla, caramel, hazelnut, and mocha.
- Iced Latte: A chilled version with cold milk and ice instead of steamed milk.
- Oat Milk/Almond Milk Latte: A dairy-free alternative for those who prefer plant-based milk.
Why Choose a Latte?
If you love a smooth, creamy, and comforting coffee that’s easy to drink and pairs well with different flavors, a latte is the way to go!
Key Differences Between Cortado and Latte
While both cortado and latte are espresso-based drinks with milk, they differ in milk ratio, texture, serving size, and taste. Here’s a side-by-side comparison to help you understand the differences at a glance:
Cortado vs Latte: A Quick Comparison
| Feature | Cortado | Latte |
|---|---|---|
| Espresso-to-Milk Ratio | 1:1 (equal parts espresso and milk) | 1:3 to 1:5 (more milk than espresso) |
| Size | Small (4-5 oz) | Large (8-16 oz) |
| Texture | Smooth, minimal froth | Creamy with microfoam |
| Taste | Strong espresso flavor, balanced | Milder, milkier coffee taste |
| Origin | Spain | Italy |
| Serving Glass | Small glass | Large cup/mug |
| Caffeine Strength | Stronger taste, more balanced | Milder due to higher milk content |
| Ideal For | Espresso lovers | Those who enjoy creamy, smooth coffee |
Which One Is Stronger?
A cortado has a stronger coffee flavor because it has a higher concentration of espresso relative to milk. On the other hand, a latte is milder since it contains more milk, which softens the espresso’s intensity.
Which One Has More Milk?
A latte contains significantly more milk than a cortado, making it creamier and smoother. The milk in a latte also creates microfoam, which is perfect for latte art.
Which One Should You Choose?
- Choose a Cortado if you want a stronger coffee flavor in a small, balanced drink.
- Choose a Latte if you enjoy a creamier, milkier coffee that lasts longer.
Both are delicious in their own way—it all depends on your personal preference!
Which One Should You Choose?
Now that you know the key differences between a cortado and a latte, you might be wondering: Which one is right for me? The answer really depends on your personal preferences and what you’re in the mood for. Let’s break it down:
Choose a Cortado If You:
- Love a strong espresso taste: If you prefer a bold coffee flavor with just a hint of milk, a cortado is a great option.
- Like smaller drinks: A cortado is typically 4-5 oz, so it’s perfect for a quick coffee fix without being too much.
- Don’t enjoy too much milk: With equal parts espresso and milk, a cortado is ideal if you want a balance of both but don’t want the milk to overpower the coffee.
Choose a Latte If You:
- Enjoy a creamier, milkier coffee: If you love the smooth, rich taste of steamed milk blending with espresso, you’ll enjoy a latte.
- Prefer a larger drink to sip slowly: A latte is typically 8-16 oz, so it’s perfect for those who like a bigger coffee to savor over time.
- Appreciate latte art: If you’re into beautiful coffee presentations, a latte offers the perfect canvas for creating latte art with its microfoam texture.
How to Experiment:
If you’re not sure which one you’ll love more, why not try both?
- Start with a cortado if you’re more of an espresso purist and want to experience coffee in its purest form with just a touch of milk.
- Then try a latte for a more milky, creamy experience that allows you to enjoy the espresso flavor in a gentler way.
The beauty of coffee is that there’s something for everyone, and you can always experiment to find what suits your tastes best!
How to Make a Cortado and Latte at Home
Making both a cortado and a latte at home is simple, and with the right ingredients and tools, you can enjoy these drinks any time. Let’s walk through how to make each one, step by step.
How to Make a Cortado
A cortado is a quick, easy espresso drink with just the right balance of espresso and milk. Here’s how to make one at home:
Ingredients:
- 1 shot of espresso (or 2 shots for a stronger version)
- Equal part steamed milk (roughly 1 oz)
Steps:
- Brew your espresso:
Use an espresso machine to brew one shot of espresso. For a stronger flavor, you can use two shots. - Steam your milk:
Steam milk to a smooth, non-frothy consistency. Unlike a cappuccino or latte, you don’t need much foam here—just a creamy texture. - Combine:
Pour the steamed milk over the espresso in a small glass (about 4-5 oz). The milk should blend smoothly with the espresso, resulting in a rich and balanced flavor.
How to Make a Latte
A latte is all about that smooth, creamy texture and mild espresso flavor. Here’s how you can make one at home:
Ingredients:
- 1 shot of espresso (or 2 for a stronger version)
- 6-10 oz of steamed milk
- Optional: Milk foam for latte art
Steps:
- Brew your espresso:
Start by brewing one shot of espresso using your espresso machine. Again, use two shots if you prefer a bolder coffee taste. - Steam your milk:
Steam your milk until it’s creamy with microfoam. You want a nice, silky texture that’s perfect for latte art if you’re feeling creative. - Pour the milk:
Slowly pour the steamed milk over the espresso into a large cup (about 8-16 oz). The milk should gently mix with the espresso, creating a smooth and mild flavor. - Optional – Create latte art:
If you’re up for it, you can use the milk foam to create beautiful latte art! Try simple designs like hearts or swirls to impress your friends.
Tips for Frothing Milk:
- If you don’t have an espresso machine with a steam wand, you can use a milk frother or a French press to froth milk. Just heat the milk first and then froth until you reach the desired consistency.
- For a dairy-free option, try using oat milk, almond milk, or any other plant-based milk. Just make sure to steam it well for the best texture!
Variations & Customizations
Both cortados and lattes are versatile drinks that can be customized in many different ways. Whether you’re looking for a unique twist or want to cater to dietary preferences, there are plenty of options to explore. Here are some popular variations you can try for each drink:
Cortado Variations:
- Gibraltar
The Gibraltar is a San Francisco variation of the cortado. It’s typically served in a 4.5 oz glass, making it slightly larger than a traditional cortado. The balance of espresso and milk is still the same, but this version is more commonly found in U.S. coffee shops. - Flavored Cortado
If you want to add a little sweetness to your cortado, try incorporating flavors such as vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut. These can be added either in syrup form or by mixing a flavored espresso roast. - Iced Cortado
For a refreshing twist, try making an iced cortado. Instead of steaming the milk, simply chill it, and combine it with ice and espresso. It’s a great option for hot days when you still crave that bold coffee flavor.
Latte Variations:
- Flavored Lattes
One of the best things about lattes is how easily they can be flavored. Some popular options include:- Vanilla Latte – A subtle sweetness that enhances the smooth flavor.
- Caramel Latte – A rich, sugary twist.
- Mocha Latte – A chocolatey treat for those who want a bit of sweetness with their coffee.
- Iced Latte
If you’re looking for a cooler, lighter version of the traditional latte, try an iced latte. Made by mixing cold milk and espresso over ice, it’s the perfect way to enjoy a milky coffee drink on a warm day. - Non-Dairy Lattes
For those with dietary restrictions or preferences, you can substitute regular milk with a variety of plant-based milks:- Oat Milk Latte – Popular for its creamy texture and neutral taste.
- Almond Milk Latte – Slightly nutty, a great option for dairy-free drinkers.
- Coconut Milk Latte – Adds a tropical flavor that pairs well with espresso.
- Matcha Latte
If you love a change from the traditional coffee taste, try a matcha latte. Made with powdered green tea and steamed milk, it offers a unique, earthy flavor and is often loved by those who enjoy non-coffee alternatives.
Which Variation Should You Choose?
- For Cortado: If you want something simple and classic, stick with the original. But if you like a bit of sweetness or a cool refreshment, try the flavored or iced cortado.
- For Latte: If you like variety, explore different flavors like vanilla or caramel, or make your drink iced for a refreshing twist. If you need a dairy-free option, there’s plenty of plant-based milk to choose from!
Conclusion: Which One Wins?
Both cortado and latte are fantastic choices for coffee lovers, but they cater to different preferences when it comes to taste, texture, and overall experience. Let’s quickly recap what we’ve learned:
- Cortado is for those who want a stronger espresso flavor with a smooth, balanced finish. It’s smaller, more intense, and perfect for a quick, bold coffee break.
- Latte is for those who love a creamy, smooth, and milder coffee experience, with a larger serving size that lets you savor your drink for longer. The frothy texture and latte art also make it an enjoyable experience from both a flavor and visual perspective.
Your Choice, Your Coffee!
At the end of the day, the decision between cortado vs latte comes down to personal preference. If you like bold, espresso-forward drinks, go for the cortado. If you’re in the mood for something creamy, milky, and indulgent, the latte is your best bet.
Final Thoughts
Both drinks have their charm, and there’s no right or wrong choice—just the one that suits your mood. Whether you’re brewing at home or ordering at a café, don’t hesitate to experiment with both and find out which one you enjoy more. And who knows? You might even end up loving both for different occasions!
FAQ’s
Is a cortado stronger than a latte?
Yes, a cortado is stronger than a latte because it has a higher espresso-to-milk ratio, offering a bolder coffee flavor. A latte contains more milk, making it creamier and milder in taste.
Is a cortado the same as a flat white?
No, a cortado has an equal espresso-to-milk ratio, resulting in a balanced, smooth taste. A flat white has more milk with microfoam, making it creamier and slightly milder in flavor.
Why do people drink cortado?
People drink cortado for its smooth balance of espresso and milk, offering a rich coffee flavor without overpowering bitterness. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a milder, less frothy alternative to stronger espresso drinks.
What drink is closest to a flat white?
The latte is the closest drink to a flat white, as both have espresso and steamed milk. However, a flat white has a stronger coffee flavor and a smoother, velvety microfoam compared to a latte’s milkier texture.
