The Difference Between Cortado and Latte: Taste, Caffeine, and Calorie Comparison to Help You Choose the Right One

Cortado or latte—which would you choose?

The cortado delivers a perfect balance of milk and espresso, while the latte is creamy and generously sized. Are you wondering, “How different are they in flavor?” or “What about caffeine and calories?” In general, a cortado typically features espresso and milk in a 1:1 ratio, with about 60ml of milk. On the other hand, a latte combines a single shot of espresso with over 200ml of milk, dramatically changing the drinking experience, even with the same amount of espresso.

What’s more, cortados are characterized by a smooth texture without froth, while lattes are known for their delicate foam. Even if the caffeine content is the same, the strength of flavor and sense of satisfaction can differ. The type of milk used also greatly affects the calorie count—choosing low-fat or oat milk is perfect if you’re health-conscious.

If you’re thinking, “I want to find the perfect cup for me!” then you’re in the right place. Using specific figures and real tasting data, we’ll thoroughly compare the two drinks and show you how to pick the best for your needs. We’ll clearly explain the must-know points so you won’t regret your choice—no matter which you pick.

Basic Definitions and Differences Between Cortado and Latte｜cortado vs latte difference

Definition and Features of Cortado

A cortado is a drink where a small amount of warm milk is added to espresso, mellowing the robust coffee flavor while keeping its strength front and center. The ideal milk-to-espresso ratio is about 1:1 to 1:2, and the milk is steamed—not frothed—just heated. Traditionally enjoyed in Spain and Portugal, cortados are usually served in small glasses at bars or cafés. Historically, the drink emerged to soften the bitterness of espresso, and it remains a favorite among coffee fans worldwide.

Definition and Features of Latte

A latte is made by adding plenty of steamed milk and a light layer of milk foam to espresso, resulting in a creamy and gentle flavor. Typically, a single shot of espresso is paired with four to eight times as much milk and served in a large cup or glass. Originating in Italy, the latte has become a staple in the US, Europe, and Asia, and is especially popular at café chains like Starbucks. With extra milk, the bitterness is mellowed, making it easy to drink even for coffee beginners.

Key Comparison Points

The table below provides a clear summary of the main differences between cortado and latte.

Item	Cortado	Latte
Espresso to Milk Ratio	1:1–1:2	1:4–1:8
Milk Texture	Steamed only	Steamed + Foamed
Serving Size	60–90ml (small)	200–350ml (large)
Flavor Strength	Strong coffee flavor	Mellow and creamy
Calories	Lower	Slightly higher
Caffeine Content	High (1 shot)	High (1–2 shots)

Cortado is served in a small glass and is recommended for those who want to fully enjoy the original flavor of coffee.
Latte is perfect for anyone who wants to savor the sweetness and creaminess of milk, or when you’re in the mood for a larger drink.
Choosing based on your preferences will make your coffee time even more enjoyable.

In-Depth Comparison of Flavor, Aroma, and Mouthfeel｜cortado vs latte flavor profile

Differences in Flavor Strength and Espresso Character

Both cortado and latte are popular espresso-based drinks, but they differ greatly in flavor intensity and espresso presence. A cortado combines one shot of espresso with an equal or slightly lesser amount of steamed milk, letting you experience the deep flavor and aroma of coffee directly. The espresso’s bitterness and richness remain pronounced, giving you a satisfying experience in a short time.

In contrast, a latte pairs one shot of espresso with plenty of steamed milk (usually at a 1:3 to 1:5 ratio), highlighting the milk’s smoothness. You’ll still taste the espresso, but the bitterness and intensity are softened, resulting in a generally gentle flavor. If you want to emphasize the espresso, go for a cortado; if you want to relax and take it easy, a latte is your best bet.

Differences in Milk Texture, Temperature, and Foam

The differences in milk texture, temperature, and foam are key points distinguishing cortado from latte.

A cortado uses smooth, warm steamed milk without creating fine foam. As a result, it has a clean, light mouthfeel that lets you fully enjoy the flavor of the espresso. It’s also often served at a higher temperature, making it ideal for drinking quickly.

A latte, on the other hand, is characterized by a thick layer of milk foam, giving it a very creamy mouthfeel. The foam adds to the smoothness and brings out a gentle sweetness. The distinct layers of coffee and milk make it a visually appealing drink as well.

Drink	Amount of Milk	Foam	Mouthfeel	Temperature
Cortado	Less	None	Light	Slightly higher
Latte	More	Yes	Creamy	Standard to lower

Tips for Choosing Based on Taste Preferences

Depending on your taste and texture preferences, cortado and latte each offer a different optimal choice.

• If you want to savor the bold flavor and bitterness of espresso, a cortado is recommended. The small amount of milk highlights the character of the coffee itself and is perfect when you want quick satisfaction in a short time.
• If you prefer a mellow, gentle mouthfeel and want to slowly enjoy the sweetness of milk, a latte is ideal. The larger amount of milk mellows out the espresso’s bitterness, making it a great choice for café time or when you want to relax.

You can also refer to the following points:

• For a stronger coffee presence: Cortado
• For smoothness and gentleness: Latte
• For satisfaction in a small serving: Cortado
• For a larger drink: Latte

Both can be easily enjoyed at home or in a café, so it’s best to choose according to your mood and the occasion.

Caffeine, Calorie, and Nutrition Comparison｜cortado vs latte caffeine & calories

Comparing Caffeine Content and Perceived Strength

Caffeine content in both cortado and latte basically depends on the number of espresso shots used. In most standard recipes, both use one shot of espresso (about 30ml/approximately 60–70mg caffeine), but lattes are sometimes made with two shots in a larger cup. Even with the same number of shots, lattes have more milk, while cortados are designed to bring out the espresso’s flavor more strongly. Therefore, the perceived caffeine “kick” is often stronger in a cortado.

Drink	Standard Shots	Caffeine (est.)	Milk Amount	Perceived Strength
cortado	1	~60–70mg	Small	Strongly felt
latte	1–2	~60–140mg	Large	Mellow

Since caffeine content in a latte can increase depending on size or store, it’s important to check the number of shots when ordering.

Calorie Comparison and Changes by Milk Type

Calories are mainly determined by the amount and type of milk used. Cortados use less milk, while lattes are made with plenty, so a typical latte (about 240ml) will have more calories than a cortado. For example, when using whole milk, a cortado is about 40–50kcal, while a latte is around 120–180kcal.

Drink	Calories with Whole Milk	Low-fat Milk	Oat Milk	Soy Milk
cortado	~40–50kcal	~35kcal	~30kcal	~35kcal
latte	~120–180kcal	~100kcal	~90kcal	~100kcal

By changing the type of milk, you can further reduce the calorie content. For those who are dieting or prefer healthier choices, opting for low-fat milk or alternative milks is also recommended.

Key Points for Nutrition and Health

Cortado and latte each offer different benefits. With less milk, a cortado is suitable for those who want to limit their sugar and fat intake or enjoy a strong coffee flavor. On the other hand, a latte contains more milk, allowing you to take in more nutrients such as protein, calcium, and B vitamins. It’s perfect as a substitute for breakfast or when you want a smooth, mellow drink.

• Recommended for cortado lovers
• Want to enjoy the pure taste of coffee
• Want to reduce calories or sugar
• Want to feel satisfied with a small size
• Recommended for latte lovers
• Love the creaminess of milk
• Looking for nutritional value or a sense of fullness
• Want to enjoy a leisurely café time

It’s important to choose the best cup according to your drinking situation, health preferences, and taste. By knowing your options, you can enjoy a coffee life that suits you.

cortado vs latte vs Other Popular Espresso-Based Drinks

Differences Between cortado, latte, and flat white

“Cortado,” “latte,” and “flat white”—these are drinks that often cause confusion on café menus. By understanding their differences, you can choose the cup that’s just right for you.

Drink Name	Espresso Ratio	Amount of Milk	Milk Foam	Volume (ml)	Flavor Characteristics
cortado	1	1	Almost none	60-120	Strong coffee flavor, clean
latte	1	3–6	A little	180-240	Mellow, easy to drink
flat white	1	2	Fine foam	150-180	Well balanced, smooth

A cortado is made with a 1:1 ratio of espresso to milk, with almost no milk foam.
A latte contains more milk, with a light layer of milk foam, resulting in a mellow taste.
A flat white features slightly more milk than espresso, with fine, velvety foam.

It’s recommended to choose according to your mood and preference.

cortado vs latte vs cappuccino & macchiato

Let’s thoroughly compare four popular espresso drinks.
The amount of milk foam and intensity of flavor are key points for selection.

Drink Name	Amount of Milk Foam	Flavor Intensity	Typical Serving Style
cortado	Almost none	Strong	In a small glass
latte	Light	Somewhat mild	In a larger cup
cappuccino	Plenty	Medium	With fluffy foam
macchiato	Very little	Strongest	Espresso with a dash of milk

Cortado preserves the original coffee flavor while the milk softens its bitterness.
Latte has lots of milk for a gentle taste.
Cappuccino is topped with plenty of foam, offering a smooth mouthfeel.
Macchiato is a rich espresso with just a touch of milk for intense flavor.

cortado vs latte vs americano, mocha, piccolo

Let’s compare other popular espresso-based drinks to help you choose your ideal cup.

Drink Name	Features	Recommended For
cortado	1:1 espresso to milk, rich and smooth	Those who want to savor coffee richness
latte	Lots of milk, mellow and easy to drink	Milk lovers, those wanting a gentle flavor
americano	Espresso diluted with hot water, clean	Those who prefer less bitterness and a lighter taste
mocha	Espresso + chocolate + milk, sweet	Those who love both sweetness and coffee
piccolo	A small latte, strong espresso flavor	Those who like a small but intense drink

• If you prefer bitterness and richness, choose cortado or piccolo
• If you want a milder taste, go for latte or mocha
• If you’re looking for something refreshing, americano

By choosing according to your preference or the occasion, you can make your café time even more enjoyable.

Cortado and Latte at Popular Café Chains

The Difference Between Cortado and Latte at Starbucks

At Starbucks, lattes are a standard menu item, but cortados are only available at select overseas locations or specialty stores. A latte is made by adding plenty of steamed milk to espresso, resulting in a creamy and mellow flavor. In contrast, a cortado uses almost a 1:1 ratio of espresso to milk, allowing you to experience a stronger coffee flavor.

Here’s a table summarizing the differences between latte and cortado:

Drink Name	Amount of Espresso	Amount of Milk	Typical Size	Flavor Profile
Cortado	1 shot	About equal	~120ml	Intense coffee flavor
Latte	1–2 shots	Generous	~240–350ml	Rich, gentle milkiness

Cortados are often served in smaller glasses, while lattes are typically enjoyed in larger cups. Both are popular, so it’s best to choose according to your preference.

Comparison of Serving Styles at Other Cafés

At café chains and local coffee shops, the way cortados and lattes are served can differ. In Europe and Australia, cortados are a staple and are carefully crafted by baristas one cup at a time. In contrast, in most Japanese cafés, lattes are the norm, featuring plenty of steamed milk added to espresso, often topped with latte art.

Trends by store or region include:

• Cortado is a staple at Spanish and South American cafés
• Latte is popular at American, Japanese, and Italian-style chains
• Cortado sizes are small (100–150ml), while lattes are larger (over 200ml)
• Similar drinks like flat whites and cappuccinos are often also available

As you can see, serving size, amount of milk, and temperature can all vary by shop, so if you’re curious, it’s a good idea to check the menu or ask the barista.

Tips for Customization

Both cortado and latte can often be customized depending on the café. Here are some points to consider according to your taste:

• Change the type of milk
  Switching to oat, almond, or soy milk can adjust the flavor and calories.
• Adjust sweetness
  Adding syrups (vanilla, caramel, hazelnut, etc.) can make for a sweeter drink.
• Add extra shots
  Adding extra espresso shots is a popular way to boost caffeine and coffee flavor.
• Adjust the temperature
  You can ask for your drink hotter or cooler, whichever you prefer.

Since cortado is originally rich with less milk, adding extra milk or sweetness allows you to enjoy a new twist. For lattes, you can highlight the mellow character by adding flavored syrups or changing the milk for a more personalized drink. In either case, feel free to consult with the barista and find your own perfect cup.

Choosing Between Cortado and Latte for Different Scenes and Purposes

Which Drink is Best for Waking Up in the Morning?

For busy mornings or when you want to feel alert, a cortado is ideal. The perfect balance of bold espresso and milk delivers a satisfying caffeine hit. Cortados generally have slightly more caffeine than lattes, making them a great choice for your first cup of the day. With less milk, the espresso flavor shines through, making it perfect for those who want to savor the true taste of coffee.

Drink Name	Caffeine Level	Strength of Flavor	Amount of Milk	Recommended Scene
Cortado	Slightly higher	Strong	Less	Waking up, focusing
Latte	Standard	Mild	More	Relaxed mornings

The Mellow Milkiness for Relaxing Moments

For moments of relaxation—whether you’re unwinding, reading, or watching a movie—a latte is the perfect choice. The generous amount of steamed milk gently envelops the bitterness of espresso, creating an exceptionally smooth mouthfeel. A café latte highlights the mellow richness of milk, bringing out its sweetness and depth. It’s also recommended when you want to take your time or pair your drink with a light dessert.

• The Appeal of the Latte
• Exquisite balance between the sweetness of milk and the flavor of coffee
• Enjoyed slowly in a large cup
• Ideal for relaxation time or lingering at a café

Choosing According to Your Mood or Physical Condition

Try changing your drink to suit your mood or how you’re feeling that day. When you’re feeling particularly tired or want to focus, the robust coffee flavor of a cortado can help refresh you. On the other hand, if you want to relax or be gentle on your stomach, a milk-rich latte is recommended.

• Recommended For These Situations
• Cortado: Mornings when you want to concentrate, or when you need a quick energy boost
• Latte: Leisurely holidays, or when you want to gently soothe your tired body

Drink Name	Recommended for These Moods
Cortado	When you want energy, when you want to boost your concentration
Latte	When you want to spend time calmly, when you want to feel soothed

By choosing between cortado and latte depending on the situation or your goals, your daily coffee time will become even more fulfilling. Enjoy a cup that best fits your lifestyle.

The Cultural Background and History of Cortado and Latte

The Origins and Spread of Cortado in Spain

Cortado is a coffee drink that originated in Spain, consisting of espresso with a small amount of warm milk added—a simple cup. The name comes from the Spanish word “cortar” (to cut), referring to “cutting” the strong taste of espresso with milk to create a milder flavor. Traditionally, it is served in a small glass cup and is enjoyed at breakfast or for an afternoon break. The drink has spread to Portugal and Latin America, where the ratio of milk to espresso and the way it’s served vary slightly by region. In local cafés, it is typically served with milk equal to or slightly less than the espresso, with almost no foam, allowing the true flavor of the coffee to shine through.

The Italian Origin and Global Spread of the Latte

The latte has its roots in Italy, and as the term “caffè latte” suggests, it is a drink of espresso topped with plenty of steamed milk. It is often enjoyed at home during breakfast, typically in a large cup. As it spread from Italy to the United States, the UK, and other countries around the world, latte art and various flavored syrups were introduced, making the latte a central part of café culture. The large amount of milk and smooth mouthfeel are the latte’s key attractions. Today, it is a staple on the menus of global chains like Starbucks and continues to evolve to suit the preferences of each country.

The Diversity of Coffee Culture and Drinking Styles Around the World

The ways people enjoy coffee vary greatly by country and region. For example, in Australia and New Zealand, the flat white is popular, and the differences among cortado, latte, and flat white come down to the amount of milk foam and the ratio of espresso to milk. In the United States, lattes are mainstream, but in recent years, cortados, macchiatos, cappuccinos, and other diverse menu items have become widely available. The table below summarizes the differences among typical milk-based coffees.

Drink Name	Country of Origin	Espresso Ratio	Milk Ratio	Amount of Foam	Size
Cortado	Spain	1	1	Almost none	Small (approx. 90ml)
Latte	Italy	1	3–8	Generous	Large (approx. 240ml)
Flat White	Australia	1	2	Slight	Medium (approx. 160ml)
Cappuccino	Italy	1	1	Generous	Medium (approx. 150ml)

The balance of espresso and milk, as well as the amount of foam, differ by region, allowing you to choose according to your preferences. In Japan too, a wide variety of coffee cultures have taken root, and you can experience many flavors at cafés and at home. By learning about the culture and history behind drinks like cortado and latte, you can enjoy coffee on an even deeper level.

Frequently Asked Questions & How to Use the Comparison Tables

Questions about cortado vs latte: strength, caffeine, and taste

Both cortado and latte are popular coffee drinks that combine espresso and milk, but there are significant differences in taste, caffeine content, and strength. Cortado allows you to really experience the robust coffee flavor of the espresso, with the milk serving only to add a touch of smoothness. On the other hand, lattes have plenty of steamed milk, resulting in an exceptionally smooth mouthfeel and a mellowed bitterness. The caffeine content depends on the number of shots, but typically, each uses one shot (about 30ml), so there’s not much difference. If you’re looking for strong flavor and body, cortado is recommended; if you prefer the sweetness and mildness of milk, a latte is your best bet.

Questions about differences with flat white and macchiato

Alongside cortado and latte, flat white and macchiato are also frequently compared. Flat white is made by adding a small amount of steamed milk to espresso, topped with fine microfoam. It uses slightly more milk than a cortado but is richer than a latte. Macchiato is simply espresso topped with just a dab of milk foam. It has the strongest espresso presence, with the milk playing only a very minimal role. Here are the differences:

• Cortado: 1 part espresso, 1 part milk
• Latte: 1 part espresso, 3–5 parts milk
• Flat White: 1 part espresso, 2 parts milk
• Macchiato: 1 part espresso, small amount of milk foam

Standard amounts of shots and milk for each drink

Each coffee type differs in the number of espresso shots and the amount of milk used. You can check the differences in the table below.

Drink Name	Espresso Amount	Milk Amount	Characteristics
Cortado	1 shot	About 30–60ml	Strong coffee flavor
Latte	1 shot	About 150–240ml	Lots of milk
Flat White	1 shot	About 80–120ml	Fine foam
Macchiato	1 shot	Small amount foam	Strongest espresso taste

With these standard measurements, it’s easier to pick the coffee that best suits your preferences.

At-a-glance comparison of the differences

	Cortado	Latte	Flat White	Macchiato
Taste	Strong coffee flavor	Mellow and sweet	Rich & balanced	Ultra strong
Milk	Less	Plenty	Medium	Very little
Size	Small to medium	Large	Small to medium	Small
Caffeine	Same (1 shot)	Same (1 shot)	Same (1 shot)	Same (1 shot)

This table lets you easily compare the features of each drink at a glance.

Tips for enjoying and recreating these drinks at home

To make café-style cortado or latte at home, the key is to have an espresso machine or strong coffee ready, and to pay close attention to the milk temperature and how much you froth it.

• For a cortado, heat the milk to around 65°C and pour it in a 1:1 ratio with the espresso.
• For a latte, froth a larger amount of milk until smooth and pour it slowly into the cup.
• The key to a flat white is creating a fine, silky microfoam.
• A macchiato is distinguished by just a small touch of foamed milk on top.

The main points are keeping the milk from getting too hot and extracting the espresso precisely. With just these, you can enjoy authentic flavors at home.

How to Make Cortado and Latte at Home, Plus Recipe Variations

Basic Cortado Recipe

A cortado is a true coffee drink that balances espresso and milk in perfect harmony. It’s easy to enjoy at home, and the key is the exquisite blend of the espresso’s rich flavor and the milk’s mild creaminess.

Check the table below for the basic ingredients and proportions for a cortado.

Ingredient	Example Amount	Key Points
Espresso	30ml–40ml	Double shot is recommended
Milk	30ml–40ml	About the same amount. Use warmed milk

Tips for Preparation

• Extract the espresso and gently pour in the warmed milk.
• The milk should be only lightly heated, with minimal foam—this is a defining feature of the cortado.
• Serving it in a small glass brings out the authentic atmosphere.

Easy Prep and Tips for Home

Ideally, use an espresso machine to make cortado at home, but if you don’t have one, you can substitute with strong brewed coffee. Heat the milk in a microwave or small saucepan, aiming for around 80°C.
When pouring the milk, tilt the cup slightly for a beautifully layered look.
Key Points List

• For a stronger coffee flavor, use less milk
• Don’t let the milk boil
• Warming the glass enhances the aroma

Basic Latte Recipe

A latte is a popular, creamy, and easy-to-drink beverage made by adding plenty of steamed milk and fine foam to espresso.
The table below summarizes the ingredients and ratios for a latte.

Ingredient	Example Amount	Key Points
Espresso	30ml–40ml	Single or double shot
Milk	About 150ml	Create a fine, smooth foam

Tips for Frothing and Temperature Control

The deliciousness of a latte comes from well-frothed milk and careful temperature control.
If you have a steamer, it’s ideal to heat and froth the milk to around 65°C.
Aim for a foam that’s fine and silky smooth.
Even with a microwave, you can make a café-style latte at home by frothing the warmed milk with a milk frother.

Latte Tips

• Use plenty of milk for a smoother, creamier taste
• Foam should just cover the surface of the cup
• Stir well before drinking for an even flavor

Variations Using Alternative Milks and Flavored Syrups

You can enjoy a lighter flavor and fewer calories by using alternative milks like oat or almond milk instead of regular milk.
Adding flavored syrups or spices opens up even more possibilities.

Recommended Variations

• Oat Milk Cortado: A healthy option with plant-based milk
• Vanilla Latte: Add vanilla syrup for extra aroma
• Cinnamon Latte: Top with cinnamon powder for a finishing touch

Health-Conscious Tips

• Use unsweetened or low-fat milk for fewer calories
• Go easy on the sweetness to let the original flavors shine
• Great for those with allergies or following a vegan lifestyle

Why not have fun experimenting with different variations at home and find your own favorite cup?