Coffee lovers often find themselves torn between various espresso-based drinks, each offering a unique flavor and experience.
Among the favorites are the cortado vs. Americano, two distinct options that cater to different preferences.
But how do these coffees differ?
Quick Answer: What is the difference between a cortado and an Americano?
The main difference lies in the addition of milk versus water. A cortado combines equal parts espresso and steamed milk. In contrast, an Americano mixes espresso with hot water, which is closer to black coffee in flavor but with espresso’s signature intensity.
This article explores the defining characteristics of cortados and Americanos, helping you decide which one might become your new go-to.
Cortado vs. Americano, how do these coffees differ?
Before getting into all of the details about these drinks, you can have a look at the handy overview below:
| Comparison: | Cortado: | Americano: |
| Flavor notes | Slightly sweet, well-balanced | A slightly bitter and robust taste |
| Espresso? | Yes, two espresso shots | Yes, one espresso shot |
| Milk added? | Yes, 2 oz (0.06 l) | No milk added |
| Water added? | No water added | Yes, 2 ounces (60 ml) |
| Caffeine content | 136mg of caffeine | 68mg of caffeine |
| Number of calories | 34 calories | Virtually no calories |
As you can see from the overview, there are quite a few differences to cover. Let’s get into it!
What is the flavor difference between a cortado and an Americano?
The flavor difference between a cortado and an Americano lies in the creaminess and intensity.
A cortado has a smooth, mellow flavor, as the steamed milk softens the espresso’s boldness and adds a hint of sweetness.
The milk also tempers the espresso’s bitterness, resulting in a well-balanced, creamy sip with a rich texture and a softer finish:
An Americano, on the other hand, has a strong, bold flavor. The espresso’s intensity is preserved but less concentrated as hot water dilutes it.
This creates a full-bodied drink similar to black coffee, allowing the espresso’s complex flavors to shine without the creaminess of milk.
In short, a cortado is smoother and richer, while an Americano is more intense and direct.
Which of these coffees is stronger in taste?
In terms of taste strength, an Americano is stronger and more intense because it’s made solely of espresso and water.
This keeps the espresso’s bold, rich flavor at the forefront, with the hot water only slightly diluting its intensity:
Conversely, a cortado has a milder, smoother taste due to the equal parts of steamed milk that soften the espresso’s bite and add a creamy texture.
The milk tempers the espresso, making it less intense than an Americano.
So, the Americano is your best bet if you’re looking for a strong, straightforward coffee flavor. If you prefer a balanced, mellow taste, go for the cortado.
Is there a difference in caffeine content?
There can be a difference in caffeine content if a cortado is made with two shots of espresso, while an Americano uses only one shot.
Here’s how it plays out:
- Cortado: Often made with two shots of espresso, a cortado has around 136 mg of caffeine (each shot usually contains about 68 mg). This results in a higher caffeine content despite its small size.
- Americano: When an Americano is made with a single shot of espresso, it contains about 68 mg of caffeine. However, many cafes make Americanos with two shots, matching the cortado’s caffeine at 136 mg, though spread out over a larger volume of liquid.
In summary, a standard cortado has more caffeine if it’s made with two shots, while an Americano’s caffeine can vary depending on whether it uses one or two shots.
How many calories are in a cortado vs. Americano?
When made with whole milk, a cortado typically contains around 34 calories, primarily due to the milk’s fat content.
The caloric value can vary slightly based on the type of milk used; for instance, using skim milk would result in fewer calories.
In contrast, an Americano has virtually no calories, usually two calories or less, since it consists of just espresso and hot water without added ingredients.
So, if you’re watching your calorie intake, the Americano is the lighter option, while the cortado adds some calories due to the milk.
Remember that both drinks have many variations, such as a white Americano or cinnamon brown sugar cortado.
These drinks have extra add-ins that will increase the calorie count.
Which is better, a cortado or an Americano?
Whether a cortado or an Americano is better depends on your preferences and what you’re looking for in a coffee experience.
Here are some considerations to help you decide:
Choose a cortado if:
- You enjoy creaminess: If you like smooth and creamy coffee, the cortado’s equal parts espresso and steamed milk create a rich texture.
- You prefer a balanced flavor: The milk tempers the espresso’s bitterness, producing a well-rounded, slightly sweet drink.
- You want a larger serving: The cortado is usually served in a larger cup, providing more volume for sipping over time.
Choose an Americano if:
- You prefer bold coffee flavors: An Americano preserves the strong, rich flavors of espresso, making it ideal for those who enjoy a robust coffee experience.
- You’re looking for low calories: If you want to keep your calorie count low, an Americano is virtually calorie-free, while a cortado contains calories from milk.
- You want a shorter drink: An Americano is typically served in a smaller size, making it a quick, satisfying option.
Ultimately, it comes down to your taste preferences. I prefer a cortado because of the mouthfeel and creaminess.
However, an Americano is something I’d make more often to start the day out right.
Related coffee comparison articles
Are you wondering how the cortado and Americano compare to other coffees?
Great! Check out the articles below for more in-depth coffee comparisons:
- Americano vs. Macchiato
- Cortado vs. Cappuccino
- Cortado vs. Flat White
- Americano vs. Latte
- Cortado vs. Piccolo
And to compare more coffees, visit the coffee comparison hub!
Conclusion
In conclusion, the cortado and Americano offer unique coffee experiences catering to different tastes and preferences.
The cortado stands out for its creamy texture and balanced flavor, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoy a rich, smooth drink.
On the other hand, the Americano appeals to coffee lovers who appreciate a bold, intense flavor without any added ingredients, allowing the espresso’s complexity to shine through.
Ultimately, whether you opt for a cortado or an Americano, you’re guaranteed to enjoy the delightful richness of espresso in your cup.
So, explore both options and discover which one suits your palate best!
