cortadito

Cortadito is a coffee beverage that originates in Cuba and is widely enjoyed in Cuba’s national coffee culture as well as in Cuban diaspora communities. The drink is a variation of espresso that is “cut” with a small amount of milk, producing a balanced flavor that remains stronger than a latte or café con leche.

Preparation and serving typically involve pulling a single shot of espresso and adding hot, lightly steamed milk in a small proportion. The resulting beverage is usually served in a short glass or demitasse, sometimes with a thin layer of foam. Sugar is commonly offered or added according to taste. The term cortadito emphasizes the concept of cutting the intensity of the espresso with milk, preserving its character while softening bitterness.

Regional variations and terminology exist. In Spain, a closely related drink is called cortado, which also involves espresso with a modest amount of milk, though serving sizes and stylistic nuances can differ by café. In Latin American regions outside of Cuba, similar milk-cutting variants may be found under different names or proportions, reflecting local café traditions.

Cortadito is commonly consumed at breakfast or during social coffee moments, often alongside pastries. It belongs to the broader family of milk-cut espresso beverages, distinct from black espresso, con leche, or latte, by its relatively small amount of milk and its emphasis on the espresso flavor with a gentle creamy balance.