Cortado vs Cappuccino: What I Learned About Their Differences

We coffee lovers are always trying to pit one drink against another to find the perfect fit for our taste buds. Of all the options, two of the most popular choices—cortado and cappuccino—are notable for their distinct attributes.

A cortado mixes one part espresso and one part steamed milk for a rich, silky balance with less froth. In contrast, a cappuccino provides a rich balance of espresso and steamed milk. It’s got a good bit of foam on top, which contributes to its richness.

Knowing what sets them apart is key to selecting the ideal one for every mood and moment.

• A cortado is a delicious espresso drink influenced by Spanish culture. It includes the same delicious mix of equal parts espresso and steamed milk, served in a 4-ounce cup for a bold but smooth flavor.
• Cortados are a proud product of Spain and Latin America, revealing the tapestry and depth of coffee culture found in these countries. People love to drink them with friends.
• A cappuccino is rooted in rich Italian coffee traditions. It’s made up of equal parts espresso, steamed milk and foamed milk, and it’s traditionally served in a 6-ounce cup.
• A cortado provides a robust taste wrapped in a smooth touch. Alternatively, a cappuccino has a much lighter, creamier mouthfeel due to its signature layer of milk foam.
• Cortados use a 1:1 ratio of espresso to steamed milk, whereas cappuccinos balance espresso, steamed milk, and foamed milk in a 1:1:1 ratio.
• Both drinks share espresso and milk as core ingredients but differ in milk preparation, flavor profiles, and presentation, catering to varied preferences.

What Is a Cortado

A cortado is an understated but delicious espresso-based coffee drink made with equal parts espresso and steamed milk. This 1:1 ratio creates a balance between the boldness of the espresso and the creamy smoothness of the milk. A cortado differs from other milk-based espresso drinks in that it contains little to no foam.

This design allows for the pronounced flavors of the espresso to come through, while creating a silkier, creamier mouthfeel. Its elevated caffeine content, about 136 milligrams per 8 ounces, gives you a jolt of energy without being too intense. The cortado is served in a small glass, or cup, usually 4 to 6 ounces.

It provides a powerful and robust coffee encounter. Cortados are particularly favored in Spanish-speaking countries, where they are common in cafe cortados and coffee shops. Their simple preparation and rich, balanced flavor have made them no less popular among the new generation of specialty coffee shops around the world.

Its smaller size, and therein a focus on taste over experience, is what makes it a true heavyweight. The cortado, by design, is served in a fairly small portion. This prevents the coffee’s more nuanced flavors from becoming lost in the mix with an overabundance of milk.

Origin and Cultural Significance

The cortadito was born in Spain and Portugal, becoming a mainstay of everyday coffee culture in these nations for decades. The name “cortado” comes from the Spanish verb “cortar,” which translates to “to cut.” This term aptly describes how the milk balances the espresso, softening the drink’s acidity and strength, creating a perfect espresso experience.

As the cortado spread throughout Latin America, it continued to be, for the most part, a drink enjoyed in relaxed, social environments. In these cultures, coffee is not just a beverage but a custom that unites people. The cortado fits seamlessly into this coffee tradition, embodying the essence of a popular espresso drink.

It’s the perfect tasty, milk-based coffee pick-me-up for anyone wanting a lighter alternative to larger coffee drinks. In recent years, the cortado has gained a strong foothold in the global specialty coffee industry. Its appeal lies in its simplicity, and its emphasis on quality coffee has garnered the interest of coffee enthusiasts everywhere.

This makes it a versatile option for anyone seeking a sophisticated but friendly coffee experience, showcasing the beauty of traditional espresso beverages.

Key Ingredients and Ratios

At its core, a cortado requires just two ingredients: espresso and steamed milk. The standard ratio of 1:1 ensures that each element contributes equally to the drink’s profile. This balance lies in the need for high-quality espresso beans, since the espresso’s flavor creates the base of the drink.

When crafted with intention, the espresso provides a rich, slightly sweet, robust base. At the same time, the milk works to mellow things out, doing so without drowning out those intense flavors. The outcome is a rich, balanced combination that brings out the best in both pieces.

Cortados are usually prepared with a single or double shot of espresso, depending on how strong and large you’d like your drink. The limited pour, often 4 to 6 fluid ounces, helps maintain that intensity of flavor and concentration.

Flavor and Milk Texture

The cortado flavor profile is rich and smooth, serving up the robust espresso flavor you love with the creaminess you crave. The steamed milk introduces just a touch of sweetness, which magnifies the natural flavors of the coffee.

Cortados are different from cappuccinos and lattes in that there’s no heavy frothing of the milk. This decision gives the cortado a silky mouthfeel, removing the frothy foam topping. This gives you a drink that tastes like it’s super rich and satisfying without being too heavy.

This absence of foam allows the complexity of the espresso to shine through. This quality makes the cortado a favorite among those who know and love the subtleties of exquisitely roasted coffee beans.

What Is a Cappuccino

Historical Background and Popularity

Cappuccino originated in Italy, where the drink became popular in cafes in the early 20th century. The Italian version went for a much more minimalist and refined design. It took its cue from the Viennese “Kapuziner,” a coffee beverage with cream and sugar.

The origin of the name “cappuccino” actually derives from the Capuchin monks. Their brown robes only reflect the color of the drink when espresso is mixed with steamed milk. With time, cappuccino developed into an artfully made drink which became a centerpiece of Italian espresso culture.

By the mid-1900s, cappuccino became a popular drink all throughout Europe and eventually found its way into cafes all over the globe. The espresso machine began to proliferate in the 20th century, and the drink became more closely associated with the art of the barista.

The beautiful layers of espresso, steamed milk, and foam entice coffee lovers far and wide. They just can’t say no to its deep, bold taste! These days, cappuccino sits atop the coffee world’s hierarchy of classics. People enjoy it at cafes of all types – from the busiest metropolitan cafes down to the smallest suburban cafes.

Ingredients and Foam Layer

A classic cappuccino is made with three essential ingredients: espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam. This traditional ratio of 1:1:1 creates the perfect espresso experience with rich flavors and creamy textures. The balance of these components is what makes cappuccino one of the most popular espresso drinks around.

The espresso serves as a strong and intense foundation, while the steamed milk contributes creamy sweetness, and the foam adds a rich, airy layer. This frothy cappuccino is what truly distinguishes it from other coffee drinks, elevating it to a favorite among coffee enthusiasts.

Foam should be thick and dense, providing a soft cushion that retains its form. This silky milk froth enhances the drink’s overall mouthfeel and acts as an insulating barrier, keeping the espresso and milk at temperature longer. Baristas pay great attention to detail, ensuring the foam’s consistency is just right for the ultimate cappuccino experience.

Taste and Creaminess

With its equal parts of espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam, the result is a rich, creamy cappuccino with a smooth but bold coffee taste. The milk foam creates a much lighter mouthfeel than drinks that use milk, such as a cortado, where there is no foam. This light nature is part of what makes cappuccino so inviting to those who look for that balance of intensity and subtlety.

The drink’s harmony is a result of the dance between the espresso and milk elements. The espresso provides a little bit of bitter, bold flavor, and the milk balances it out with natural sweetness and a silky mouthfeel. Combined, these components lead to a complex, yet pleasingly rounded character.

A cappuccino is traditionally served in a 6-ounce cup, which further emphasizes their small and powerful presence. Some cafes stretch it, offering “cappuccinos” in sizes up to 12 ounces. Classicists tend to love the more diminutive form, which allows the flavors to be more concentrated and in sync.

Comparing Cortado and Cappuccino

One of the most important differences between a cortadito and a cappuccino is the amount of espresso. A cortado usually contains less foamed milk than a cappuccino, resulting in a stronger and more robust coffee flavor. In contrast, cappuccinos have a balanced ratio, where the milk froth adds some relief to the flavor and mouthfeel. 

Preparation of milk distinguishes these drinks. In a cortado, the milk is steamed, not foamed, giving it a richer, creamier consistency. Conversely, the foamed milk in a cappuccino adds an airy quality that balances the espresso’s kick without masking it.

These differences lead to very unique flavor experiences; cortados offer a powerful espresso taste, whereas cappuccinos are soft and rich, appealing to different coffee enthusiasts.

Key Differences Between Cortado and Cappuccino

1. Preparation Techniques Compared

Creating cortados and cappuccinos establishes the groundwork for each beverage’s distinct features. The common denominator of both drinks is espresso. To make espresso, very finely ground coffee is brewed with hot water under high pressure. This method brings out the rich, concentrated coffee that the drinks are built upon.

The milk and its preparation make for some important differences. For a cortado, the process is simple and focuses on achieving balance. It all begins with pulling a double shot of espresso. The milk is steamed in a way that creates a smooth, velvety, microfoam without adding a lot of air to the milk—the foamy cap typically found on cappuccino.

Then the steamed milk is added in equal parts to the espresso. Here’s a simple breakdown of the steps involved:

• Brew double espresso shots.
• Steam milk to a velvety texture.
• Combine espresso and steamed milk in equal proportions.

Cappuccinos, on the other hand, are a little more complicated with the milk. A double shot of espresso serves as the base. The milk is steamed in order to achieve two different textures—steamed milk and frothed up foam.

Pour the steamed milk first to establish a silky canvas. Then, lace a thick layer of foam on top to complete the drink. This layering is part of the reason why the cappuccino has a light, bubbly mouthfeel.

2. Milk-to-Espresso Ratios Explained

The milk-to-espresso ratio is a key difference between these two drinks, shaping their flavor and texture. A cortado maintains a 1:1 ratio, meaning equal parts espresso and steamed milk. This creates a harmonious experience where neither the coffee nor the milk overpowers the other.

Cappuccinos, however, typically have a more varied ratio, often around 1:1.5. This is made with both steamed milk and foam, resulting in a denser, creamier mouthfeel.

Drink	Espresso Shots	Steamed Milk	Foamed Milk
Cortado	2	Equal	None
Cappuccino	1	Equal	Equal

3. Flavor Profiles and Strengths

Cortados are famous for their rich, velvety, harmonious taste. The same ratio of espresso to milk ensures a strong flavor throughout the coffee. Meanwhile, the milk tempers the coffee’s acidity, for a smooth, mellow finish.

Conversely, cappuccinos are more creamy and frothy. The foam on top gives a nice, light mouthfeel and the milk is just enough to take the edge off the espresso without losing the kick.

4. Serving Sizes and Presentation

Cortados are usually served in small cups, often between 4 and 6 ounces. This small size matches well with its focus on balance and simplicity. A cappuccino, in contrast, is brewed into somewhat larger 6-ounce cups.

The drink has a gorgeous multi-layered look. At the bottom, rich espresso; at the center, creamy steamed milk; and on top, a gorgeous layer of foam.

5. Calorie Content and Nutritional Details

Cortados tend to be a little bit lower even in calories, simply because they are smaller in size and don’t have any foam. Cappuccinos are usually a little higher in calories due to the extra milk foam.

This can vary depending on what kind of milk you use. Adding whole milk, for example, will add more calories than using skim or a plant-based option such as almond milk.

6. Intensity Levels of Each Drink

Cortados offer a concentrated coffee experience with a smooth, balanced finish thanks to the 1:1 espresso-to-milk ratio. Cappuccinos have distinct layers of milk and foam, which help to cool and mellow the espresso flavor.

They provide a rich, velvety mouthfeel, turning every sip into a decadent treat. Ultimately, both drinks serve their respective fans, whether you appreciate the boldness of a cappuccino or the lighter, frothier enjoyment of a cortado.

Similarities Between Cortado and Cappuccino

Shared Espresso Base

Both cortado and cappuccino start with the same foundation: espresso. That common foundation is what lends both drinks their robust coffee essence and deep aroma. Espresso, you probably know, is produced by forcing hot water through finely-ground coffee beans at high pressure.

This method produces a rich, full-bodied shot of coffee packed with intense taste. This makes it the perfect vehicle for forming a silky layer of crema on top. Whether you’re enjoying a cortado or a cappuccino, it’s easy to recognize the importance of espresso.

It creates the structure upon which both drinks are built, contributing delicious richness and body. A single shot of espresso works best for all of the smaller servings. A double shot works best for bigger servings and enhancing the strength of the coffee.

These two drinks make full use of that versatility. This strong espresso base helps guarantee that the coffee flavor doesn’t get overpowered, even when combined with milk or foam. That’s what makes them so alluring to coffee connoisseurs who are looking for a strong but smooth coffee experience.

Milk as a Common Ingredient

Milk is the star of the show when it comes to introducing the unique textures and flavors of cortado and cappuccino. Both beverages mix espresso with steamed milk and, for cappuccino, a layer of airy milk foam. This pairing is what makes them so rich and frothy.

The milk helps to calm the intensity of the espresso. This achieves a harmonious flavor that isn’t too harsh nor light. Steamed milk, for example, lends a silky, rich texture, while frothy milk foam makes for a lighter, airier experience.

Cortado traditionally includes just steamed milk. Cappuccino mixes steamed milk and milk foam, resulting in a beautiful layered appearance. Despite this difference, both drinks share the same core ingredients, showcasing how milk can transform the espresso into a comforting, enjoyable beverage.

Versatility in Customization

Perhaps one of the reasons cortado and cappuccino are the most popular is their customizable nature. This is partly due to the fact that coffee shops offer a plethora of different types of milk. You can customize it with whole, skim, almond, or oat milk!

Unlike cappuccinos, which usually call for dairy, this flexibility allows both drinks to accommodate a range of preferences and dietary needs. Additionally, the amount of milk in relation to the espresso can be changed based on how strong you want the coffee.

Some folks really want a strong coffee presence in their cortado. Some people rejoice at the rich flavor of a cappuccino, often topped with foam. Both drinks can be made fancier with sweeteners such as vanilla and caramel, or even a sprinkle of cocoa powder.

Their adaptability makes them ideal coffees for beginners and enthusiasts alike. So whether you’re the coffee purist type or the type who likes to try new things, they’ve got you covered!

Related Espresso-Based Drinks

Flat White Overview

The flat white is another espresso-based drink that’s similar to both the cortado and cappuccino. It’s different with its signature texture and milk-to-espresso ratio. It was invented in Australia or New Zealand, if you go by the accounts of whoever you ask.

Today, it’s a darling in coffee shops from New York to Tokyo! Unlike the cortado, which has a 1:1 ratio of espresso to milk, the flat white typically uses a ratio closer to 1:2. This small addition of milk gives the drink a creamier texture while maintaining the true espresso flavor you love.

What sets the flat white apart is the craft behind the milk. Baristas create microfoam, a velvety steamed milk with tiny bubbles, that mixes wonderfully with the espresso. The outcome is a silky, decadent beverage that doesn’t steal the show from the coffee’s taste.

Flat whites are served in smaller cups, usually around 6 ounces. This size makes them a little more concentrated than a latte but not quite as strong as a cortado.

Latte Characteristics

Lattes are among the best-selling coffee drinks globally, valued for their silky texture and deliciously milky taste. The defining feature of a latte is its higher milk content, with a coffee-to-milk ratio of about 1:3. This makes lattes creamier and less intense than drinks like the classic cortado or cappuccinos.

In a latte, baristas steam the milk to create a silky microfoam, topping it with a thin cappuccino-like layer. Generally served in larger cups, about 12 ounces, lattes are more diluted in espresso flavor compared to traditional espresso beverages.

They’re a platform for innovation, as seen in countless variations such as flavored syrups, iced varieties and beyond. For those seeking a smoother coffee touch, the latte provides a soothing intermingling of espresso and dairy.

Macchiato Variations

Macchiatos are a versatile category of espresso-based drinks with two primary styles: espresso macchiato and latte macchiato. Espresso macchiatos are small and mighty, made with a shot of espresso marked with a dollop of foam.

These are served in small cups, typically ranging from 2 to 3 ounces max, providing a quick, concentrated caffeine surge. Latte macchiatos turn the typical coffee drink on its head. They use steamed milk as the base and pour espresso on top creating that lovely layered effect.

Latte macchiatos are usually served in taller glasses, which really accentuates their visual layers and presents an even more milk-forward drink. Indeed, both styles show the incredible versatility of espresso and milk, appealing to different palates and preferences.

Exploring Mocha and Americano

Mocha and Americano are two very different philosophies on espresso drinks. A mocha is a little different, since it’s made with espresso, steamed milk, and chocolate, usually topped with whipped cream to make it extra sweet.

It’s a dessert-like drink, ideally suited for someone who loves a rich, indulgent coffee experience. The Americano, on the other hand, is a much no-frills, more straightforward choice.

It’s produced by adding hot water to espresso, which makes it milder in flavor but still deep like an espresso. Americanos are perfect for coffee lovers who enjoy a longer coffee experience but don’t want the weightiness that milk provides.

Conclusion

Each drink brings its own vibe to the coffee table. Cortados simply pair our high-quality espresso with a splash of steamed milk for a bold flavor and creamy texture without excess foam. Cappuccinos build beautiful layers. The thick, frothy milk contributes a rich, decadent mouthfeel that pairs beautifully with the rich, intense espresso. Neither one is better than the other, equally worthy depending on what you’re in the mood for—something intense and no-nonsense or something frothy and cuddly.

Sampling both will give you a better idea of what suits your style. With these drinks on your menu, whether you’re looking for a quick hit of caffeine or a calming pick-me-up, you’re covered. Happy slurping, and up next, consider some other espresso-based creations. There’s always something different to drink and taste!

Frequently Asked Questions