To coffee lovers, the subject of Flat White Vs. Cortado may be crucial because it can be hard to tell the difference between the two. This may be since flat white and cortado seem to appear and taste the same way.
To make each drink stand out since they are technically not the same, it’s, therefore, important to explore their differences in this review. With this, you can easily recognize the better one for you.
On fundamental differences, cortado has a stronger taste and typically comes with more caffeine. Besides, it’s a smaller drink when compared to flat white. The flat white features some great texture and is significantly smoother and hotter. Also, they are characterized by a sweeter flavor because of the higher coffee to milk ratio.
Flat White
There is still a bone of contention whether a flat white originated in New Zealand or Australia. But it’s found out that both nations make great white coffee prepared with espresso coffee and hot milk.
A flat white is a type of white coffee prepared with a coffee to milk ratio of 1 to 2. The baristas involve textured and micro-foamed milk in the preparation and mix every necessary ingredient before serving them to the concerned parties.
As a larger beverage when compared to other drinks, particularly cortado, the flat white is served at around 180ml or 6 ounces. It’s also hotter and sweeter. This is because the milk for the coffee is heated up by the micro-foaming process better than conventional steaming, and the coffee features a more subdued espresso taste, respectively.
Cortado
The word “cortado” means “cut” in Spanish1. Its making began in Spain and can reasonably be explained as a cup of espresso served by baristas with warm milk to reduce the acidity. The espresso and the steamed milk have an equal ratio of 1 to 1.
Cortado is prepared with milk that is not texturized. Asking your barista for an extra shot of espresso can be a brilliant decision if you need a little extra kick in your cortado.
A cortado is incredibly smooth. It comes with a relaxed texture and maintains an outstanding balance between the sweetness of milk and the stronger taste of espresso.
As a smaller beverage when compared to other drinks, particularly a flat white, a cortado is served at around 4.5 ounces or 130ml.
The Significant Differences: Flat White Vs. Cortado
By interpreting some of the above points and complementing them with other essential points, it is that there are some clear differences between flat white and cortado.
One of the significant differences is in the geography of both coffee types. A flat white is claimed to be from New Zealand/ Australia, whereas cortado is from Spain. In addition, baristas serve a flat white in small 5.5 fl oz cups and cortado in 5-7 fl oz cups.
| Parameters | Flat White | Cortado |
| Coffee to Milk Ratio | 1:2 | 1:1 |
| Taste | Sweeter | Stronger Taste |
| Cup Size | Typically a 5 to 6-ounce cup | Typically a 4 to a 4.5-ounce small glass cup |
The Pros and Cons: Flat White Vs. Cortado
Flat White
| Pros | Cons |
| – Refeshing Texture – Offers the choice of ristretto or espresso – It’s hotter, so it’s perfect for drinking on a chilly day. |
– Milk can overshadow the taste of a Flat White. – A second espresso will cause your drink to lose its smoothness. |
Cortado
| Pros | Cons |
| – A well-balanced taste – Caffeine content comparable to a Flat White. – The exquisite simplicity of cortados |
– It is a fairly little brew. – When compared to the Flat White, it reaches room temperature faster. |
Frequently Asked Questions
The following are some common questions that people ask regarding flat white vs. cortado. The answers provided should be helpful.
Is flat white stronger than cortado?
Where can I find a flat white?
Where can I find a cortado?
Takeaway
For Flat White vs. Cortado, making a comprehensive decision on the one to choose may depend on how strong you want your coffee and how you care about consistency and mouthfeel. If you want a sweeter, hotter, and smoother coffee, a flat white will be your best option. But if you want a more consistent beverage at a coffee shop and one with a stronger taste, then cortado will be a great choice to opt for.
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