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Cortadito

A classic Cuban coffee drink made with equal parts freshly pulled espresso and warm sweetened condensed milk for a rich, silky, and naturally sweet beverage.
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Prep Time 2 minutes
Cook Time 3 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 1 serving
Course: Drinks and Beverages
Cuisine: Cuban
Calories: 145
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1 ounce single shot pulled fresh from your machine espresso
  • 1 ounce sweetened condensed milk
  • Water for preheating your cup and pitcher as needed

Equipment

  • Espresso machine with a portafilter and group head
  • Espresso cup or small coffee mug (3 to 4 ounces)
  • Small metal pitcher
  • Measuring spoons or small scale
  • Spoon for stirring
  • Thermometer (optional but helpful)

Method
 

  1. Preheat your espresso cup and small pitcher by filling them with hot water and letting them sit to maintain temperature.
  2. Measure 1 ounce of sweetened condensed milk into the warmed pitcher to ensure a perfect 1:1 ratio.
  3. Gently heat the condensed milk over medium-low heat or steam with a steam wand, stirring occasionally until it reaches about 150°F (65°C).
  4. Grind espresso beans to a fine consistency and tamp 18 to 20 grams firmly into the portafilter for a single shot extraction.
  5. Pull a 1 ounce espresso shot into the preheated cup, aiming for a 25 to 30 second extraction and a rich golden crema.
  6. Discard the hot water from the preheating step and dry the cup completely to prevent dilution.
  7. Slowly pour the warm condensed milk into the espresso while stirring gently to combine and achieve a silky texture.
  8. Taste your cortadito and adjust the espresso or milk ratio in future preparations according to your preference.

Notes

Consume immediately after preparation for optimal temperature, texture, and flavor integration.