The cortado vs. macchiato distinction is no exception. Both drinks share the same base—a double shot of espresso—but the amount of milk sets them apart. A cortado contains slightly more steamed milk than a macchiato, resulting in a creamier, more balanced drink.

If you’re unsure which specialty coffee drink you’d prefer most, consider their differences in flavour, texture, size, and more below. 

What is a cortado?  

The cortado originated in Spain. Its name translates to “cut”—as in, the espresso is cut with foamed milk.

Key ingredients and preparation method 

A cortado is made by pulling a double shot of espresso and adding an equal amount of steamed milk. Traditionally, a cortado features dairy milk, but non-dairy alternatives are becoming more popular. 

Typically, a barista will combine two ounces of each, resulting in a four-ounce drink—smaller than a cappuccino, larger than an espresso.

Flavour profile and serving style

The cortado is traditionally served in a Gibraltar glass, sometimes known as a “Gibraltar,” which is short, sturdy, and made of thick glass. The one-to-one espresso-to-milk ratio results in a well-balanced drink that’s equal parts intense and smooth, perfect for any coffee lover who wants a bold coffee experience.

What is an espresso macchiato?

This Italian coffee creation is stronger and smaller than a cortado. Unlike Starbucks’ popular (but confusingly named) caramel macchiato, a true “espresso macchiato” is made by combining a shot of espresso with just a splash of foamed milk. 

“Macchiato” translates to “marked” in Italian, because the espresso is marked with a small dash of milk.

Traditional versus modern variations

The espresso macchiato is typically unsweetened and made with dairy milk, but many modern macchiato drinkers prefer a non-dairy alternative. Oat milk is usually the best choice for this, as it froths similarly to traditional milk. 

How it’s made and what it tastes like

The ratio for a macchiato is about one part milk to two parts espresso, making it more espresso-forward than many of the other delicacies on your local coffee shop’s menu. The macchiato’s intense, full-bodied flavour makes it a favourite among coffee drinkers who want their beverage to pack a punch.

Cortado versus macchiato: Key differences

The cortado and macchiato have all the same ingredients, but their differences result in two surprisingly distinct beverages.

Espresso-to-milk ratio

This ratio is the key distinction between many of your coffeehouse staples. The cortado has equal parts espresso to milk, while the macchiato has one part milk and two parts espresso.

Foam level and texture

Both cortados and traditional macchiatos use steamed milk, resulting in a smooth texture. The key difference lies in the amount of milk used. A cortado contains more steamed milk, creating a balanced, mellow flavour and subtle microfoam. A macchiato uses just a dash of milk—often with a light foam—allowing the espresso’s boldness to come through.

Size and serving style

While cortados are often served in the iconic Gibraltar glass, macchiatos usually come in a traditional espresso cup. They’re also smaller than a cortado, usually two or three ounces. 

Flavour intensity and boldness

Macchiatos are a step below espressos when it comes to flavour intensity. Because they have only a small splash of milk, the espresso flavour dominates. Meanwhile, cortados offer a more balanced flavour profile with equal parts espresso and milk.

How to make a cortado and a macchiato at home

Cortados and macchiatos both have an air of luxury about them, yet they're surprisingly simple to make. 

Ingredients and tools you’ll need

To get started on your at-home coffee station, you’ll need a few basic tools. Don’t worry—now that you’ve cut down on your daily cafe habit, you’ll be saving money in the long run.

For both specialty coffee drinks, you’ll need the following:

● Espresso beans

● Milk of choice

● Espresso grinder

● Espresso maker

● Handheld frother

Step-by-step guide to making a cortado

First things first: You’ll want to brew a double shot of espresso. Pour it into a 4-ounce cup—bonus points if you use a Gibraltar glass!

Next, steam slightly more than two ounces of milk to achieve the right texture, then pour exactly two ounces over your espresso.

Step-by-step guide to making a macchiato

The traditional macchiato starts the same—by brewing a single or double espresso shot. Pour it into an espresso cup, and then froth your steamed milk using a frother or handheld milk wand. 

Spoon the steamed milk into your espresso, and voila! Your macchiato is ready to drink.

When to choose a cortado versus a macchiato 

Still unsure whether you should choose the cortado or the espresso macchiato? Here’s some advice on which espresso drink is right for you: 

● If you are a coffee enthusiast who wants something creamy and balanced, the cortado is for you. 

● If you’re looking for something intense and complex, opt for the macchiato.

And remember: You’re always free to mix and match to your heart’s (and your tastebuds’) content.

Finding your ideal espresso drink

To make the most of your at-home beverages, you need an espresso machine that’s up to the task. At Sage, we pride ourselves on innovating espresso makers, milk frothers, and more coffee machine accessories to deliver the perfect cup every time. 

Our Sage Oracle Jet espresso maker allows you to adjust the coffee strength, milk texture, and temperature to perfectly suit your taste, all with an easy-to-use touch screen and a sleek design. With appliances this reliable and easy to use, you’ll become your new favourite barista in no time.

Sources: 

1. Food and Wine. The Cortado Coffee Deserves Your Appreciation. https://www.foodandwine.com/coffee/what-is-a-cortado-coffee

2. Healthline. Cappuccino vs. Latte vs. Macchiato — What’s the Difference? https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/cappuccino-vs-latte-vs-macchiato