Cortado
The most coffee-forward milk drink here, with a small amount of warm, minimally aerated milk.
The difference is milk quantity and texture—not the name on the button.
These measured starting points keep the espresso constant so the effect of milk and aeration is easy to understand.
| Drink | Espresso | Textured milk | Texture | Cup |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CortadoOpen measured recipe → | 36 g | About 60 g | Minimal aeration | 100–140 ml |
| Flat whiteOpen measured recipe → | 36 g | About 120 g | Thin, glossy microfoam | 150–180 ml |
| CappuccinoOpen measured recipe → | 36 g | About 120 g | More aerated microfoam | 150–180 ml |
| LatteOpen measured recipe → | 36 g | About 200 g | Silky, lightly aerated | 240–300 ml |
Flat white vs cappuccino
Similar total milk can feel very different: the cappuccino incorporates more air, while the flat white stays fluid.
Latte
More milk creates a longer, gentler drink. A very large cup may need another espresso to keep its balance.
These are useful reference points
Café recipes, basket doses and cup sizes vary. Keep weights visible, then adjust for the coffee and the drinker rather than chasing a universal definition.
Choose a machine for the milk job
Steam-wand control and automatic repeatability solve different mornings.
Compare milk system, heat-up, cleaning and checked price across the current Index.