Are you confused about the difference between a cortado vs cappuccino? These two popular espresso based drinks may seem similar at first glance, but there are some key differences that set them apart.
In this article, we will explore the origins, preparation methods, texture and taste profiles of cortados vs cappuccinos, so you can confidently order your next cup of coffee. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or just looking to try something new, this article will give you a deeper understanding of these two beverages.
Differences Between Cortado vs Cappuccino
| Cortado | Cappuccino |
|---|---|
| A cortado is a variation of a espresso based drinks that’s consists by adding equal parts of espresso and steamed milk. The taste has a short and strong coffee with a silky texture and a slightly sweet flavor. The name “cortado” comes from the Spanish letter “cortar,” which means “to cut,” referring to the way the espresso is cut by the addition of milk. | A cappuccino is a also variation of a espresso based drinks that consists by one part espresso, one part steamed milk, and one part foam. The taste has a rich, creamy texture and a strong espresso flavor with a thick layer of foam on top. The name “cappuccino” comes from the Capuchin order of monks, whose hoods are said to resemble the color of the drink. |
Note: Both cortado and cappuccino are famous espresso based drinks, but the major difference between the two is the proportional of each ingredient and the texture of foam.
Texture: Cortado vs Cappuccino
The texture comparison between cortado vs cappuccino is determined on the method of preparation.
A cortado is made by adding steamed milk in a 1:1 ratio of espresso. The milk is usually steamed between 150-160F temperature, and poured over the espresso in such way that the espresso and milk are mix together. Finally results in a drink that has a silky texture and is less foamy than a cappuccino.
A cappuccino is made by adding one part espresso, one part steamed milk, and one part foam. The milk is usually steamed between 160-170F temperature and the foam is usually twice the volume of the milk. Finally results in a drink that has a rich, creamy texture with a thick layer of foam on top. The foam provides a nice contrast with the smooth, creamy milk and the bold, rich espresso.
Note: Overall, a cortado has a smoother, less frothy texture, while a cappuccino has a richer, creamier texture with a thicker layer of foam on top.
Taste: Cortado vs Cappuccino
The taste of a cortado and cappuccino is determined by the making process and the quality of the ingredients used.
The taste of a cortado is a balanced combination of strong coffee flavor from the espresso and a slightly sweet taste from the steamed milk, with a silky texture. The proportion of both ingredients are equal, creating a drink that is strong but not overpowering and smooth.
The taste of a cappuccino is generally considered to be a combination of rich, bold coffee flavor from the espresso, a creamy taste from the steamed milk, and a light, frothy texture from the foam.
The proportion of espresso, steamed milk, and foam are in a 1:1:1 ratio which provides a balance of flavors, but the espresso is usually the most prominent. The milk and foam are usually steamed to a higher temperature, which creates a richer, creamier taste than a cortado. The final drink is generally considered to be strong, creamy and with a rich texture.
Note: Overall, a cortado is known for its balanced taste of coffee and milk while a cappuccino is known for its stronger coffee flavor and creamy taste.
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Calories: Cortado vs Cappuccino
The calorie of cortado and cappuccino depending on the size of the drink, the base of milk used and any additional ingredients such as syrup or whipped cream.
A typical cortado made with 2 ounces of espresso and 2 ounces of whole milk contains about 70–80 calories.
A cappuccino made with the same amount of espresso, but with less milk and more foam has about 50–60 calories.
Keep in mind this is a survey on a general, the actual ingredients of the cortado vs cappuccino vary depending on the specific recipe and brewing process.
Difference Between Cortado vs Cappuccino
Cortado vs Cappuccino
The actual difference between cortado vs cappuccino is the ratio of espresso to steamed milk. A cortado has a ratio of 1:1, while a cappuccino has a ratio of 1:1:1 (one part espresso, one part steamed milk, one part foam). That solve cortado contains less milk and foam than a cappuccino, making it a stronger and more intense drink.
In terms of preparation: cortado and cappuccino can also be make in separate ways. To make a cortado, the barista first takes a shot of espresso and then steams the same amount of milk. Steamed milk is then added to the espresso, creating a smooth and silky texture.
To make a cappuccino the barista first draws a shot of espresso and then froths the milk. The frothed milk is then added to the espresso, creating a thick and creamy texture. Foam is then added to the top of the drink, creating a distinctive layered look.
In terms of serving size: the cortado and cappuccino are also special for each other. A cortado is usually served in a small glass or cup, usually about 4 ounces in vol. This is because the stronger ratio of espresso to milk makes it a more intense drink and is meant to be consumed in smaller sips.
A cappuccino is traditionally served in a large ceramic cup, usually about 6 ounces in vol. This is because the steamed milk and foam make it a lightweight and sweet drink that means it consumed in large sips.
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Which One Should You Order?
It’s very risky to answer which coffee to order, cortado vs cappuccino it’s always up to you. If you prefer a stronger and more intense coffee experience than Cordero and Cappuccino, an Americano may be a better choice.
If you want to prefer more sweet and fizzy, a latte or mocha may be great option. Ultimately, it’s important to experiment and try different beverages to find the one you like best.
FAQs: Cortado vs Cappuccino
Q1. What has more milk a cappuccino or a cortado?
A. A cappuccino has more milk than a cortado. It is made with espresso with lot of milk foam, while a cortado is made with just espresso shot and steamed milk.
Q2. Is cortado stronger than cappuccino?
A. No, cortado is stronger than cappuccino. A cappuccino is hotter and stronger taste compared to cortado.
Q3. Is a cortado the same as a flat white?
A. A cortado and a flat white are similar but not the same, a cortado traditionally contains equal parts espresso and steamed milk while a flat white contains a double shot of espresso and a small amount of steamed milk with a velvety macrofoam.
Q4. What has more caffeine cortado or cappuccino?
A. Both cortado and cappuccino are espresso-based drinks, but cortado generally has more caffeine than a cappuccino.
Q5. Is cortado same as macchiato?
A. A cortado and a macchiato are different drinks, a cortado traditionally being equal parts espresso and steamed milk while a macchiato is made with a double shot of espresso and a small amount of foam on top.
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Conclusion: Cortado vs Cappuccino
Cortado vs Cappuccino both are espresso based drinks, but there are distinct differences between the two in terms of the ratio of espresso to milk and foam.
Cortado is a simple espresso-based drink consisting of equal parts espresso and steamed milk with a small amount of froth.
It’s the perfect drink for those who want the taste of espresso without the added sweetness of milk. But cappuccino is a more complex drink made up of 1/3 espresso, 1/3 steamed milk and 1/3 foam, perfect for those who enjoy the taste of espresso but prefer it less intense.
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