Coffee aficionados often find themselves navigating a bewildering array of espresso-based drinks. Two that frequently cause confusion are the cortado and the macchiato. While both are small and strong, subtle yet significant differences distinguish them. This guide will delve into the nuances of each, clarifying their unique characteristics and helping you confidently order your next caffeine fix.
What is a Cortado?
A cortado is a Spanish coffee drink traditionally made with equal parts espresso and steamed milk. The key here is the texture of the milk. It's not foamy like in a latte or cappuccino; instead, the milk is micro-foamed, meaning it's gently heated and textured to create a velvety smooth consistency, almost like a very thin layer of cream. This creates a balanced drink where the strength of the espresso is cut ("cortado" means "cut" in Spanish) by the creamy milk, resulting in a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The goal is not to dilute the espresso but to temper its intensity. A well-made cortado should exhibit a subtle sweetness from the milk without overpowering the espresso's robust character.
What is a Macchiato?
A macchiato, Italian for "stained," is a shot of espresso "stained" with a small amount of foamed milk. The focus is on the espresso, with the foamed milk merely adding a touch of sweetness and a slightly softer texture. Unlike a cortado, the milk in a macchiato is distinctly foamy, almost like a tiny dollop placed on top. Think of it as a delicate accent to the espresso's powerful essence, rather than a significant component to balance the flavors. The overall volume is considerably smaller than a cortado.
What's the Difference? A Summary Table
| Feature | Cortado | Macchiato |
|---|---|---|
| Milk Type | Steamed, micro-foamed | Foamed |
| Milk Quantity | Equal parts to espresso | Very small amount |
| Texture | Velvety smooth, creamy | Distinctly foamy |
| Overall Taste | Balanced blend of espresso and milk | Espresso-forward, with subtle milk notes |
| Origin | Spain | Italy |
How Much Milk is in Each Drink?
This is a frequently asked question, and the answer isn't strictly defined. The ratio in a cortado is generally considered to be approximately 1:1 espresso to steamed milk. However, this can vary depending on the barista's preference and the size of the espresso shot used. The macchiato, on the other hand, contains a significantly smaller amount of milk – just a small spoonful of foamed milk is typically added to a single or double shot of espresso.
Which Drink is Stronger?
Both drinks are strong, but the macchiato is generally considered stronger due to its significantly higher espresso-to-milk ratio. The cortado, while still strong, has a softer, more balanced flavor profile thanks to the added steamed milk.
Which Drink Should I Order?
The best choice depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a stronger espresso experience with a subtle milk accent, opt for the macchiato. If you enjoy a more balanced drink where the espresso's intensity is tempered by creamy, micro-foamed milk, then the cortado is the better choice. Experimenting with both is the best way to determine your personal favorite!
