What is the Difference Between Flat White and Cortado?

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The main differences between a flat white and a cortado are their size, texture, and taste. Here are the key differences:

  • Size: Both cortados and flat whites are smaller in size compared to lattes, but flat whites may be slightly larger due to the additional milk.
  • Texture: Cortados have a smooth texture, while flat whites have a more velvety texture due to the presence of textured micro-foam milk.
  • Taste: Cortados have a stronger coffee flavor due to their 1:1 ratio of espresso to steamed milk, while flat whites have a 1:2-3 ratio of espresso to steamed milk, resulting in a more velvety consistency.

In summary, cortados are smaller, have a stronger coffee flavor, and a smoother texture than flat whites, which are slightly larger, have a more velvety consistency, and a milder coffee flavor.

Comparative Table: Flat White vs Cortado

Here is a table comparing the differences between a Flat White and a Cortado:

Feature Flat White Cortado
Milk Texture Velvety Smooth
Milk Foam Can have lots of foam or little to no foam Less foam, more steamed milk
Milk Ratio Approximately 2:1 ratio of espresso to milk Approximately 1:2 ratio of espresso to milk
Sweetness Tends to be sweeter due to less milk and more steamed milk Milk is less sweet, but still has a strong coffee taste
Cup Size Generally served in a 5.5 oz (165 ml) cup Served in a smaller cup, typically around 3.3 oz (100 ml)

Both Flat White and Cortado are espresso-based coffee drinks, but they differ in their milk texture, ratio, and sweetness. Flat White has a velvety milk texture and can have varying amounts of foam, while Cortado has a smooth milk texture with less foam and more steamed milk. The milk ratio in a Flat White is approximately 2:1, while in a Cortado, it is about 1:2. This difference in milk ratio makes Cortado stronger in coffee taste compared to Flat White.