Cortado Vs Latte: If you’re a coffee connoisseur, chances are you’ve heard of cortado and latte, two popular coffee drinks. Both drinks have a lot in common as they have espresso as their base but at the same time there are important differences between them. In this blog article, we’ll explore the key differences between cortado and latte, so you can make an informed decision when ordering your next drink!
What is a Cortado and History?
A cortado is a coffee drink consisting of espresso and steamed milk, in a ratio of 1:1. The word “cortado” comes from the Spanish verb “cortar”, which means “to cut”. Cortados are traditionally served in small glasses or cups, and are sometimes referred to as “gibraltar” drinks.
The history of the cortado is unclear, but it is believed to have originated in Spain or Portugal. In Spain, the cortado is often served after breakfast or lunch, as a pick-me-up. In Portugal, it is more common to find them served in cafés alongside sweet pastries.
What is a Latte and History?
A latte is a coffee drink that is made with espresso and steamed milk. The word “latte” is derived from the Italian word “caffellatte”, which means “coffee (and) milk”. A latte typically has more milk than a cappuccino, making it less intense.
The first lattes were created in Italy in the early 1900s. It is said that an Italian barista created the latte to appeal to American customers who were used to drinking coffee with milk. The latte quickly became popular in America and has since spread to other parts of the world.
Cortado Vs Latte: Difference Between A Cortado And A Latte
Difference in Brewing Technicalities
While both lattes and cortados are espresso-based beverages, the difference lies in how they’re brewed. A latte uses an extra shot of espresso and is topped with steamed milk that has a creamy foam on top. To make a cortado, you only use one shot of espresso and slightly less steamed milk that has no foam. This creates a slightly creamier and sweeter beverage than a latte.
Difference in Serving Size
The common standard for a cortado is usually 3 ounces while lattes are usually 6 ounces. This makes a latte the more popular choice when it comes to ordering coffee drinks since it offers more espresso for the same price.
Difference in Flavor Profile
A cortado is made with an equal parts espresso and steamed milk, offers a slight sweetness, and has a creamy texture. The milk in a cortado is steamed but not frothed, so it has a lower fat content than a latte. This makes for a refreshingly light coffee drink that is perfect for those who want to enjoy the bold flavors of espresso without being overloaded with dairy.
Lattes, on the other hand, are made with more espresso than steamed milk and often contain flavored syrups (like vanilla or hazelnut). This gives lattes a stronger coffee flavor that is often balanced out by the sweetness of the syrup. Lattes also have a richer, thicker texture thanks to the addition of frothed milk.
Difference in Caffeine Content
When it comes to caffeine content, a Cortado has about 80mg while a Latte has about 150mg. So if you’re looking for a morning pick-me-up, a latte might be the better choice. But if you’re sensitivity to caffeine, or you’re looking for something to drink in the afternoon, a cortado might be a better option.
Difference in Brewing time
The main difference between cortado and latte is the brewing time. Cortado is brewed for less time than latte. This results in a stronger coffee drink with more caffeine.
Difference in Bitterness
A cortado is a coffee drink made with espresso and steamed milk. A latte, on the other hand, is a coffee drink made with espresso and foam. Both drinks have a similar appearance, but there are some key differences between the two.
For one, a cortado is generally stronger than a latte because it has less milk. This makes it a good choice for coffee drinkers who want a little more kick to their drink. Additionally, the steamed milk in a cortado creates a creamier texture, while the foam in a latte gives it a light and airy feel.
So, what’s the difference between cortado and latte? In short, it’s all about the ratio of espresso to milk. A cortado has less milk than a latte, making it stronger and more flavorful.
Difference in Acidity
The difference between a cortado and a latte lies in the acidity. A cortado is less acidic than a latte because it uses less milk. The milk used in a cortado has been steamed for a shorter amount of time, resulting in a drink that is less creamy and more watery. This also results in a cortado having less of a foamy top than a latte.
Difference in Takeaway
A cortado is a coffee with a small amount of steamed milk, while a latte has more milk and is also served with foam on top. Both drinks have espresso as their base, but the cortado is generally stronger in flavor. The latte is also sweeter because of the added milk and foam.
Which should you choose – Cortado or Latte?
The choice between a latte and cortado really depends on your personal preference. If you’re looking for something with less sweetness, then the cortado might be the better option for you. For those who prefer more caffeine or something sweeter, a latte might be more suitable. Ultimately, it all comes down to what fits your taste best.
How to make a cortado?
A cortado is a popular coffee beverage that originated in Spain and has become increasingly popular worldwide. To make this delicious drink, start by preparing a shot of espresso using your preferred method.
Next, heat up the milk until it reaches around 140-150°F (60-65°C). Pour the steamed milk over the espresso shot, aiming for an equal ratio of milk to espresso. The result should be a smooth and rich taste with just enough foam on top to add texture without overwhelming the flavor.
Traditionally served in small glasses or cups, a cortado is perfect for those who enjoy coffee but don’t want something as strong as an espresso or as milky as a latte.
How to make a latte?
If you’re wondering how to make a latte, the process is simple but requires attention to detail.
First, start by brewing a strong espresso shot using finely ground coffee beans and an espresso machine. Then, froth milk in a separate pitcher using a steam wand until it reaches the desired texture- silky and smooth with small bubbles on top. Next, pour your freshly brewed espresso into your cup and then add the frothed milk slowly while holding back the foam with a spoon until it’s about 2/3 full. Finish by pouring the remaining foam on top of your latte in a circular motion for aesthetics.
To take things up another notch, consider adding flavored syrups or spices such as vanilla or cinnamon to give your latte an extra kick of flavor that will leave you craving more! With practice and patience, anyone can master making lattes at home like professional baristas do in coffee shops all around the world!
Add more Flavor in cortado and latte
There are a few key ways to add more flavor to your cortado or latte. First, you can use a higher quality coffee bean. Second, you can experiment with different grind sizes to find the perfect balance of flavor and strength. Third, you can try using flavored syrups or other ingredients to enhance the taste of your drink. fourth, If you are using milk in your cortado or latte, try using a higher fat content milk for a richer flavor. Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment! Try different combinations of these tips until you find the perfect drink for your taste buds.
How to Store Brewed Coffee?
Brewed coffee should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Coffee that is stored in a fridge or freezer can become stale quickly.
How to Store Your Coffee Beans?
When it comes to coffee beans, there are a few things you should keep in mind in order to ensure that your beans stay fresh and full of flavor. Here are a few tips on how to store your coffee beans:
-Store your beans in an airtight container: This will help to keep the beans from going stale and losing their flavor.
-Keep your beans in a cool, dark place: Exposure to light and heat can cause the beans to lose their flavor.
-Use your coffee beans within 2 weeks of opening the bag: Once the bag is opened, the coffee beans will start to lose their freshness. So, be sure to use them up within 2 weeks for the best flavor.
-Try not to grind your coffee beans until you’re ready to use them: Grinding the beans exposes them to oxygen which will cause them to go stale faster. So, it’s best to only grind the amount of coffee you need for each use.
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Conclusion
A cortado is a coffee beverage that combines espresso and steamed milk in equal proportions, while a latte is made with more milk compared to espresso. Both drinks are popular choices for coffee lovers worldwide and each has its own unique flavour profile. Both coffees can be served hot or cold depending on your preference. Whether you’re looking for an intense caffeine hit or something smooth and creamy, either a cortado or latte will give you the perfect start to your day!
Mark Porter is a barista, chef and cafe operator who blogs teaching bartending for everyone. He has been in the hospitality industry for over 20 years and has worked in some of the best cafe and restaurants in the world. Mark’s mission is to help people learn about coffee and how to make them so they can enjoy them at home with friends.