Why Baristas Swear by Cortado—You’ve Never Seen Coffee Like This

Mon, 04 May 2026 15:22:04 +0000

Why Baristas Swear by Cortado: You’ve Never Seen Coffee Like This If you’ve walked into a specialty coffee shop lately, you’ve probably noticed the Cortado standing out—not just visually, but in flavor and ritual. Unlike the sleek filters of pour-overs or the vibrant layering of latte art, the Cortado balances milk and espresso in a way that’s both refined and deeply satisfying. From master baristas to everyday coffee lovers, the Cortado has earned its reputation as one of the most approachable and flavorful espresso-based drinks. But what makes it so special? Let’s take a closer look at why baristas swear by this underrated cup. ### What Exactly Is a Cortado? Contrary to popular belief, the Cortado is not just a small latte. Traditionally, it’s a smaller, stronger version of the Spanish cortado—meaning “cut” or “shortened”—referred to as a stronger version of an espresso served with a small amount of heated milk to mellow its bold character. Typically, a Cortado uses just a splash (around 1/4 to 1/3 cup) of steamed milk poured over a double shot of espresso (about 2 oz), resulting in a smooth, velvety finish without overwhelming the coffee’s intensity.