Cortado Coffee vs Flat White: The Ultimate Side-by-Side Brew Guide with Bazan Coffee

Cortado coffee vs flat white two popular espresso-based drinks that often confuse even seasoned coffee drinkers. Both involve espresso and milk, both are served in small cups, and both offer rich, satisfying textures. So what really sets them apart? And more importantly, how can you brew each one to highlight the best of your beans, especially specialty Vietnamese coffee from Bazan Coffee?

This detailed guide, built on research, unpacks the differences in structure, flavor, and origin. It also gives you professional brewing tips and product recommendations so you can replicate both drinks at home with clarity and confidence.

What Is a Cortado Coffee?

A cortado is an espresso-based drink originating from Spain, traditionally made with a 1:1 ratio of espresso to warm milk (without foam). The name comes from the Spanish verb cortar, meaning “to cut” the milk cuts the espresso’s acidity.

Classic Cortado Profile:

• 1:1 ratio (usually 30ml espresso + 30ml steamed milk)

• Very little to no foam

• Served in a small 4–5 oz glass

• Flavor: bold, smooth, and balanced

“Cortados preserve the structure of espresso while smoothing the edges ideal for darker roasts or high-bodied beans.”

What Is a Flat White?

A flat white was born in Australia or New Zealand, depending on who you ask. It consists of a double espresso topped with 120ml of silky steamed milk microfoam, making it slightly longer and creamier than a cortado.

Classic Flat White Profile:

• 1:2 or 1:3 espresso to milk ratio

• Fine microfoam (not frothy)

• Served in a 5–6 oz ceramic cup

• Flavor: smoother, milk-forward but still espresso-led

Flat white requires “stretching milk into a velvety microfoam at 60–65°C” for optimal integration with espresso.

Cortado Coffee vs Flat White: Comparison Table

 

Which Should You Choose Based on Your Taste?

Choose Cortado if you:

• Prefer a stronger, bolder espresso flavor

• Enjoy less milk and less sweetness

• Appreciate more control over flavor clarity

Choose Flat White if you:

• Want more creaminess and a smoother finish

• Prefer espresso integrated gently with milk

• Love latte texture in a smaller size

“Cortados are best for showcasing bean character. Flat whites are best for comfort and balance.”

How to Make a Cortado and Flat White at Home

Cortado Recipe:

1. Pull 1 shot espresso (18g in → 30g out in 25–30 sec)

2. Steam 30ml milk (55–60°C)

3. Pour with no foam or light steam

Flat White Recipe:

1. Pull double espresso or double ristretto

2. Steam 100–120ml milk to 60–65°C with microfoam

3. Pour slowly to integrate foam with crema

For best results, use whole milk or oat milk with high protein content (3.2%+) for structure and sweetness.

Best Bazan Coffee Beans for Cortado and Flat White

Bazan’s beans are small-batch roasted and fermented to express natural sweetness, structure, and balance ideal for both drinks.

Cortado Pairings:

Why? These beans retain bold character even with milk, creating a dynamic cortado.

Flat White Pairings:

Why? These blends yield creamy, balanced textures that shine in microfoam.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is a cortado stronger than a flat white?

Yes. Due to the higher espresso-to-milk ratio, cortados have a bolder flavor.

Can I use plant milk in both drinks?

Yes, but choose barista-grade oat or almond milk for texture. Avoid thin rice milk or low-fat soy.

What’s the caffeine difference?

• Cortado: 1 shot (~63–75mg)

• Flat white: 2 shots (~126–150mg)

Which is more popular in third-wave cafés?

Flat whites tend to be more popular for those who enjoy latte-style drinks but want a smaller portion.

 

Final Thoughts: Cortado or Flat White Let the Beans Decide

When deciding between cortado coffee vs flat white, the real winner depends on your mood and your beans. A cortado gives you espresso clarity with a soft milk touch. A flat white offers gentle, creamy balance with espresso integrity.

With Bazan Coffee, you get to choose from fermentation-rich beans that work across both profiles. Whether you’re chasing complexity or comfort, our lineup has you covered.

Brew Smarter. Taste More. Choose Bazan.

• Hand-harvested beans from Vietnam’s most fertile terroirs

• Natural, washed, and anaerobic processes for maximum depth

• Roasted to enhance clarity, body, and milk integration

👉 Shop Bazan Coffee Now and brew a cortado or flat white that reflects your taste every time.