If you’ve ever stood at a coffee shop menu wondering whether to order a cortado or a flat white, you’re not alone! Both are smooth, espresso-based drinks with milk, but they have key differences in texture, flavor, and size. A cortado is bold and balanced, while a flat white is creamier and velvety. But which one should you choose? Let’s break down the differences so you can order with confidence!
What is Cortado?
A cortado is a Spanish coffee beverage made with equal parts espresso and steamed milk, resulting in a rich and creamy consistency without overpowering the coffee flavor. The term “cortado” means “cut” in Spanish, referring to how the milk cuts through the strong espresso. This drink typically features a one-to-one ratio of coffee to milk and is served in a small glass or cup, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoy a strong coffee flavor balanced with milk.
What is Flat White?
The flat white is an espresso-based coffee drink that originated in Australia and New Zealand during the 1980s. It’s similar to a latte but features a higher coffee-to-milk ratio, resulting in a more intense espresso flavor. A flat white is usually made with a double shot of espresso and microfoam, which consists of velvety, textured milk that is steamed to create a glossy finish. Served in a smaller cup than a latte, the flat white has a strong coffee essence combined with a creamy and smooth mouthfeel.
What You’ll Need for Each
To prepare a cortado, you will need fresh espresso beans, a coffee grinder, water, a coffee machine or espresso maker, and whole milk or your choice of milk alternatives. For a flat white, the ingredients are quite similar — you will need fresh espresso beans, water, and milk, but you should focus on the texture of your milk using a steam wand to achieve the required microfoam.
Pro Tips for Perfect Preparation
For a cortado, ensure your espresso shots are brewed correctly, ideally using a medium roast that shines through in the drink. Use whole milk for a creamier texture, but don’t over-steam it, as you want it to maintain a rich flavor. When making a flat white, focus on getting the milk to the right microfoam consistency; this means steaming your milk to around 60–65°C (140–149°F) and creating a shiny, velvety texture without excessive bubbles. Practice makes perfect when it comes to pouring the milk to achieve the desired latte art.
Tools You’ll Need to Make Both
For both drinks, you will need an espresso maker or coffee machine, a coffee grinder for fresh beans, a steaming jug to froth milk, and a thermometer to check your milk temperature. If you aim to achieve latte art, having a scale to measure your espresso and milk can also be beneficial. Lastly, investing in a quality coffee scale for accurate measurement is essential for both drinks.
Substitutions & Variations for Your Coffees
You can customize both drinks based on your preferences. For a cortado, try using oat milk or almond milk as an alternative to whole milk for a dairy-free option. You can also experiment with flavored syrups, such as vanilla or hazelnut, to add a different twist. For a flat white, you could adjust the espresso quantity based on your taste preference, or use flavored coffee beans for a distinctive flavor profile. Additionally, consider making a cold brew flat white during warmer months by serving it over ice.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Both Drinks
Step 1: Prepare Your Espresso
Start by grinding your coffee beans fresh for the most flavorful result. Using an espresso machine or moka pot, brew 1 or 2 shots of espresso, depending on your preference for strength. The brewing process should take approximately 25 to 30 seconds to achieve the perfect extraction. Pay attention to your espresso’s crema, which serves as a sign of quality. A well-made espresso will have a rich and aromatic flavor, setting the foundation for either a Cortado or Flat White.
Step 2: Steaming Your Milk
For both drinks, steaming the milk is crucial for creating that desired texture. Fill a pitcher with your chosen milk and place the steam wand just below the surface. Turn on the steamer to create microfoam, ensuring that the milk reaches around 140-150°F without scorching. For a Flat White, aim for a velvety, creamy foam, while for a Cortado, a small amount of warm milk will suffice. Foam should be silky and not overly bubbly; both drinks should have a glossy finish.
Step 3: Assemble the Drink
For the Cortado, pour the steamed milk gradually over the espresso until you reach a balanced ratio of coffee to milk (1:1 or 1:2). The key is to maintain the strong coffee flavor while providing a creaminess that complements it. For the Flat White, add the steamed milk over the double shot of espresso, ensuring that you create a beautiful layer of microfoam on top. The overall volume should be similar to that of a Cortado but with a softer texture.
Leftovers & Storage of Coffee Drinks
Coffee drinks like cortados and flat whites are best enjoyed fresh, as the milk and espresso can separate or lose their quality upon standing. If you find yourself with leftover brewed espresso, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 1-2 days for best flavor. However, note that reheating espresso may alter the taste slightly. Milk foams should be discarded if they haven’t been used, as they lose their texture quickly once cooled.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of milk for cortados and flat whites?
Yes, you can use different types of milk, such as almond, soy, or oat milk. However, this may change the flavor and creaminess of the drinks.
Is a cortado stronger than a flat white?
Yes, since a cortado has a more concentrated milk-to-espresso ratio, it can taste stronger than a flat white.
Can I make these drinks without an espresso machine?
While an espresso machine is ideal, you can also use a French press or AeroPress to brew concentrated coffee and froth milk with a steam wand or frother.
What type of beans are best for cortados and flat whites?
For both drinks, medium to dark roast coffee beans are preferred for their robust flavor, but personal preference can vary.
Can I add flavors to cortados and flat whites?
Absolutely! You can add flavored syrups or spices such as cinnamon, vanilla, or cocoa powder to enhance the taste.
Are cortados and flat whites served hot or cold?
Both drinks are traditionally served hot, but variations like iced versions can also be made for a refreshing alternative.
Final Thought
Understanding the differences between a cortado and a flat white enhances your coffee experience, allowing you to appreciate the nuances in flavor and preparation method. Each drink offers a unique take on espresso and milk, providing options for coffee lovers to experiment with. Whether you prefer the strong coffee flavor of a cortado or the creamy texture of a flat white, both beverages can be easily customized to suit your palate. So, grab your espresso maker and start brewing these delightful coffee drinks at home!