Coffee is one of the most popular beverages worldwide, with various types of coffee drinks available to suit different preferences. Two popular coffee drinks that are often confused are Cortado VS Latte. While both of these drinks have espresso as their base, they differ in the ratio of milk to espresso and the preparation method.
Cortado VS Latte: Best Buy For 2023
A cortado, also known as a “Gibraltar,” is a Spanish coffee drink that consists of a shot of espresso mixed with steamed milk. The ratio of espresso to milk is approximately 1:1, which results in a balanced and smooth taste. The milk in a cortado is not as frothy as in a latte, which makes it a popular choice for those who prefer a less creamy coffee drink.
On the other hand, a latte is a popular Italian coffee drink that consists of a shot of espresso and steamed milk. The ratio of milk to espresso is higher in a latte, usually 2:1 or 3:1, resulting in a creamier and sweeter taste.
To create a visually appealing drink, the preparation of a latte involves frothing the milk to form a layer of foam on top. Two popular espresso-based coffee drinks, cortado and latte, result in distinct tastes and appearances due to varying milk-to-espresso ratios and preparation methods. They differ in their taste and appearance.
Understanding the basics:
Cortado is a coffee drink that originated in Spain. To make a cappuccino, one must use a shot of espresso and steam a small amount of milk. To achieve a smooth and velvety texture in a cappuccino, the milk is steamed rather than frothed. The ratio of espresso to milk is typically 1:1, which means that there is an equal amount of espresso and milk in the drink.
On the other hand, Latte is a coffee drink that originated in Italy. A cortado consists of a shot of espresso and steamed milk. In a latte, the milk is usually frothed to produce a thick layer of foam atop the drink. The ratio of espresso to milk in a latte is usually 1:3, which means that there is three times as much milk as espresso in the drink.
The taste:
One of the main differences between Cortado and Latte is the taste. Cortado has a strong, bold flavor due to the equal ratio of espresso and milk. The small amount of steamed milk in a Cortado does not overpower the flavor of the espresso, but rather enhances it. Cortado has a smooth, velvety texture and is often described as having a nutty, caramel-like flavor.
On the other hand, Latte has a milder flavor due to the higher ratio of milk to espresso. The frothed milk in a latte gives it a creamy texture and a slightly sweet taste. The espresso flavor in a latte is often overshadowed by the milk, but some people prefer this milder taste.
The size:
Another difference between Cortado and Latte is the size of the drink. Cortado is a small drink, typically served in a small glass or ceramic cup. Espresso purists often prefer the concentrated flavor of the small drink size. Baristas typically serve latte in a tall glass, which allows for the addition of more milk and creates a creamier texture and milder taste.
The preparation:
The preparation of Cortado and Latte also differs. To make a Cortado, you pull an espresso shot and add a small amount of steamed milk at a lower temperature to achieve a smooth texture without any foam.
To make a Latte, one pulls an espresso shot and adds steamed milk that is frothed to create a thick layer of foam on top. Many people enjoy creating Latte art using foam.
The caffeine content:
Finally, the caffeine content of Cortado and Latte is also different. Cortado has a higher concentration of caffeine due to the equal ratio of espresso to milk. This makes it a popular choice for those who need a quick caffeine boost in the morning.
Latte, on the other hand, has a lower concentration of caffeine due to the higher ratio of milk to espresso. This makes it a popular choice for those who prefer a milder coffee drink that they can enjoy throughout the day.
Cortado VS Latte Which is healthier?
Cortado and latte are both okay in moderation for a balanced diet. However, the healthiness of either one depends on the ingredients used. One may be slightly healthier than the other.
A cortado is typically made with equal parts espresso and steamed milk. Because it has less milk than a latte, it contains fewer calories and less fat. However, if you add sugar or flavored syrups, it can significantly increase the calorie count and sugar content.
On the other hand, a latte is made with more milk than a cortado, which makes it creamier and more filling. However, it also contains more calories and fat. Again, if you add sugar or flavored syrups, the calorie and sugar count can be even higher.
Ultimately, the healthiest option is to enjoy your coffee beverages in moderation and without added sugars or syrups. If you prefer a cortado, stick to its simple recipe with no added sweeteners. If you prefer a latte, consider choosing skim or low-fat milk and avoiding added sugars or syrups.
FAQs
How do you make a cortado?
To make a cortado, you pull a shot of espresso and steam an equal amount of milk until it reaches a velvety texture. Then, pour the steamed milk into the espresso shot.
How do you make a latte?
To make a latte, you pull a shot of espresso and steam milk until it reaches a creamy texture. Pour the steamed milk into the espresso shot and then spoon a small amount of frothed milk on top.
Which is stronger, a cortado or a latte?
A cortado is generally considered stronger than a latte because it has a higher ratio of espresso to milk. However, this can vary depending on the specific recipe used.
Conclusions:
Both Cortado and Latte are delicious coffee drinks that offer different taste profiles and experiences. Understanding the differences between the two can help coffee drinkers make an informed choice when choosing which drink to order. Whether it’s a bold and concentrated Cortado or a milder and creamier Latte, there is a coffee drink out there for everyone’s taste preferences.
