What’s the Difference?
Imagine you’re at a cozy coffee shop, the smell of fresh coffee in the air. You’re ready to order, but then you see Flat White vs Cortado on the menu. They both sound great, but they’re not the same. So, what’s the scoop? Let’s find out together! When we talk about flat white vs cortado, the main thing to know is how they’re made.
A flat white is like a small latte with a smooth layer of frothy milk on top. It’s made with espresso and steamed milk. Now, a cortado is also made with espresso, but it has a little less milk, and it’s not frothy or fluffy. It’s stronger and has a more coffee-like taste because it has less milk.
Think of it this way: if a flat white and cortado were siblings, the flat white would be the creamy, smooth one, and the cortado would be the strong, bold one. Both are delicious, but depending on whether you like your coffee to be creamy or strong, you’ll choose one over the other. So next time you’re at the coffee shop, you’ll know exactly what makes them different and which one you want to try!
What’s a Cortado?
A Cortado is a delightful coffee beverage that hails from the vibrant cafes of Spain. Imagine a shot of bold espresso, the kind that wakes up your senses with its rich aroma and deep flavor. Now, picture this espresso softened with a touch of warm milk. This addition balances the intensity of the espresso, creating a harmonious blend that’s neither overwhelmingly potent nor excessively creamy.
The name ‘Cortado’ comes from the Spanish verb ‘cortar’, meaning ‘to cut’. In this case, it refers to the warm milk ‘cutting’ through the espresso’s strength. The milk used is usually steamed, but not frothy and bubbly like in some other coffee drinks. This results in a smooth, velvety texture that complements the espresso perfectly.
Served in a small glass or cup, the Cortado is designed for those who appreciate the time-honored ritual of sipping coffee slowly, savoring each nuanced flavor. It’s a coffee experience that’s all about balance and simplicity. The Cortado’s modest size makes it an ideal choice for a mid-morning break or an afternoon pick-me-up, offering just the right amount of caffeine to refresh without overwhelming.
Moreover, this beverage is a great introduction to espresso for those who might find a full shot too intense. The warm milk tones down the espresso, making the Cortado a perfectly balanced option for coffee enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
In essence, the Cortado is a testament to the art of coffee-making, where precision meets elegance. Its popularity has spread beyond Spain, capturing the hearts of coffee lovers around the world who cherish its straightforward yet refined character.
How Do You Make a Cortado?
- Making the Espresso Shot: A cortado starts with a shot of espresso. This isn’t just any coffee—it’s a concentrated burst of java. To make one, you’ll need an espresso machine. You pack finely-ground coffee into the machine’s basket, press it down firmly, and let hot water run through it. In about 25-30 seconds, you’ll have a rich, dark shot that’s packed with flavor.
- Warming the Milk: Next, it’s time to warm up the milk. Use a steam wand if you have one, or heat the milk gently on the stove. Aim for a temperature that’s warm to the touch, but not boiling—about 150 to 155 degrees Fahrenheit. This makes the milk nice and creamy without scalding it.
- Combining Milk and Coffee: Now, blend the warm milk with your espresso shot. The key to a perfect cortado is the ratio: you want equal parts espresso and milk. This balance mellows out the espresso’s intensity without overpowering its unique taste. Pour the milk over the espresso slowly, and you’ll see them mix into a smooth, velvety cortado.
Finally, enjoy your flavorful cortado. It’s a small beverage but don’t let the size fool you. Each sip is brimming with rich coffee taste, softened by the silky milk. It’s a simple, yet elegant drink that’s sure to please any coffee lover’s palate.
What’s a Flat White?
- The Birth of the Flat White – The Flat White is a bit of a puzzle when it comes to its origin. Both Australia and New Zealand claim to be the creators of this delightful coffee beverage. It’s a friendly rivalry, much like siblings arguing over who thought of a clever idea first. The true roots may be a bit fuzzy, but what’s crystal clear is that the Flat White has made a name for itself worldwide.
- Comparing Cousins – Imagine a Cortado, a type of coffee that also combines espresso with milk. Now, think of the Flat White as its close relative but with a twist – it contains more milk. This extra milk doesn’t just add volume; it makes the drink creamier and richer, giving your taste buds a smooth, velvety experience.
- The Perfect Pour – It’s all about the milk when it comes to a Flat White. But not just any milk will do. It needs to be frothy and smooth, like a cloud of dairy delight. The milk is then poured carefully over a shot of strong, dark espresso. The result? A beautiful blend of robust coffee flavor with a milky, silky finish.
- A Cozy Cup – Serving size matters with coffee. The Flat White comes in a small cup, which might seem modest, but it’s just right for the flavors it holds. This size is perfect for savoring the drink and enjoying the balance of espresso and milk. It’s an invitation to take a moment for yourself and dive into the story of this beloved beverage.
- Discover the Taste – Whether you’re a coffee aficionado or just looking to try something new, the Flat White is a must-try. Its unique preparation and presentation have made it a favorite among coffee lovers. So next time you find yourself at a café, why not ask for a Flat White and taste the creamy, dreamy mystery for yourself?
How Do You Make a Flat White?
- Starting with the Base: A flat white begins with a strong foundation – two shots of rich, dark espresso. To get this right, use freshly ground coffee beans and a quality espresso machine. The espresso forms the base of the drink and is crucial for the overall flavor.
- Steaming the Milk: Next, take fresh, cold milk – whole milk works best for creaminess – and steam it until it’s hot and frothy. Use a steam wand, and aim for a velvety texture rather than big, bubbly foam. The milk should appear shiny and have small, fine bubbles.
- Mixing it Together: Now, the art of combining the two: Pour the steamed milk over the espresso from a low height for a smooth blend. Then, raise the pouring jug higher to allow the milk to sit on top, creating a thin layer of microfoam. The goal is a creamy consistency throughout, with a small, central white dot on the surface.
- The Perfect Pair: A flat white’s rich flavor pairs wonderfully with a slice of cake or some freshly-baked muffins. The combination of the smooth, strong coffee and a sweet treat makes for a delightful experience, perfect for a morning pick-me-up or an afternoon break.
Remember, practice makes perfect. Take your time to master the espresso shots and the milk steaming process, and you’ll be making delicious flat whites in no time. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
Cortado vs Flat White
Even though they look similar, Cortado vs Flat White are different. A Cortado has less milk, so it’s stronger in taste. A Flat White has more milk, which is frothy, making it creamier and richer. They both come in small cups, but the Flat White is a bit bigger, giving you more coffee to enjoy.
So, if you like your coffee strong and simple, go for a Cortado. If you prefer it creamy and smooth, a Flat White is the way to go. You can even change them up with different syrups or milks to make them just how you like!