This article is intended to examine and compare the flat white and cortado coffee beverages.
Table of Contents
Flat White
The flat white is a popular coffee drink that originated in Australia or New Zealand, though both countries claim to have invented it.
- Origin: Australia/New Zealand.
- Size: Typically 6-8 oz (180-240 ml).
- Espresso: Usually made with a double shot of espresso.
- Milk: The drink contains 2/3 parts steamed milk with microfoam.
- Texture: Creamy and smooth.
- Flavor: It’s richer and creamier due to the higher milk content.
- Balance: The milk flavor is slightly more dominant.

Cortado
The cortado is a coffee drink that originated in Spain and is popular in various parts of the world, such as Latin America.
- Origin: Spain.
- Size: Typically 4 to 6 oz (120 to 180 ml).
- Espresso: Usually made with a single or double shot of espresso.
- Milk: Equal parts steamed milk (not as foamy as a flat white).
- Texture: Less frothy, with just enough milk to cut the acidity of the espresso.
- Flavor: The flavor of the espresso is more pronounced.
- Balance: More balanced between espresso and milk, allowing the coffee flavor to shine through.
