Starbucks Cortado: Unveil the Nutrition, Calories, and Copycat Recipes

As a coffee expert, I can confirm that I’m proud to have had at least one Starbucks beverage from this amazing selection of exquisite beverages. I have to admit that the Starbucks Cortado, which I tried, is exceptionally good. This elegantly soft and modest blend of espresso and steaming milk has been a beloved mainstay on the Starbucks menu for quite some time. In fact, I personally think it’s my favourite.

In this definitive article, we’ll get to the bottom of the Starbucks Cortado with its nutritional profile and calorie content, and, of course, share some exciting recipe replications so you, too, get to experience the deliciousness of this drink in your very own home. Whether you are an expert Starbucks customer or have just been introduced to the universe of specialty coffee, this article covers enough information to live the Cortado.

What is a Starbucks Cortado?

A Starbucks Cortado is a refined coffee beverage characterized by an equal ratio of espresso and steamed milk, resulting in a perfect balance of bold and smooth flavors. Originating from Spanish coffee traditions, this drink is crafted to highlight the rich, robust taste of espresso, complemented by the creamy texture of milk. 

Served in a smaller size, typically around 4 ounces, the Cortado offers a concentrated yet harmonious coffee experience. Starbucks elevates this classic drink by ensuring the finest quality ingredients and precise preparation, making the Cortado a sophisticated choice for those seeking a nuanced and satisfying coffee moment.

Nutritional Value, Price and Calorie Count

When it comes to the nutritional profile and calorie content of the Starbucks Cortado, it’s important to consider the size of the beverage. Starbucks offers the Cortado in three different sizes: Short, Tall, and Grande.Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information and current (2024) prices for each size:

Nutritional Information	Short Cortado	Tall Cortado	Grande Cortado
Calories	70	100	130
Total Fat	3g	4.5g	6g
Saturated Fat	2g	3g	4g
Carbohydrates	6g	9g	12g
Sugars	5g	7g	9g
Protein	4g	6g	8g
Price (2024)	$3.75	$4.25	$4.75

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information and calorie count for each size:Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information and calorie count for each size:

This information should be mentioned that the nutritional values given above are for the conventional Starbucks Cortado made with 2% semi-fat milk. In case you opt for customization your Cortado, for example, by enhancing it with a different type of milk like almond or soy milk, keep in mind the calories and nutrients content may change.

Given the aspect of calorie and macronutrient control, Cortado generally finds it’s best utilized by those. It comes with only 70 calories and a relatively low amount of fat and sugar among all the categories. The Tall and Grande sizes, though the calorie contents are still in an acceptable range, contain a higher level of calories, fat, and sugar, so, are better for people who aren’t so strict with food items restriction.

Recreating the Starbucks Cortado at Home: Copycat Recipes

There is something cognizant about being a coffee lover and being able of bringing the barista ideas back home. Indeed, Starbucks Cortado is another range of the beverages that require a few ingredients and tools and you will be able to take pleasure in it right in your kitchen.

Here are a few copycat recipes to help you make your own Starbucks-worthy Cortado:Here are a few copycat recipes to help you make your own Starbucks-worthy Cortado:

Classic Cortado

Ingredients:

• 2 shots of freshly pulled espresso
• 2 ounces of steamed 2% milk

Instructions:

1. Brew two ounce of fresh and potent shots of espresso you like using your own espresso machine or any other method of extraction you prefer.
2. Make the microfoam on the top of the steamed milk by adding 2% milk quantity in a small pitcher until it is smooth and creamy.
3. Delicately pouring out the steamed milk into the espresso, strive to attain the same amount of espresso and of milk over each cup.
4. Serve immediately so you can get the most flavor through this homemade Starbucks Cortado.

Iced Cortado

Ingredients:

• 2 shots of chilled espresso
• 2 ounces of cold 2% milk
• Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Pour two shots of espresso and wait until they are fully cooled either by mixing with ice or by refrigerating.
2. In a glass, mix a couple of iced cold 2% milk and espresso.
3. Add a number of ice cubes and mix up gently to ensure even distribution.
4. Now. Served and sip your chilly Cortado for refreshed enjoyment

Flavored Cortado

Ingredients:

• 2 shots of freshly pulled espresso
• 2 ounces of steamed 2% milk
• 1-2 tablespoons of your desired flavor syrup (e.g., vanilla, caramel, hazelnut)

Instructions:

1. Apart from that, you should set up a double shot of espresso using either espresso machine or method.
2. In a medium bowl, 2 % milk should be steamed while a slight microfoam lather salutes.
3. Add 1-2 tbsp your type of syrup to steamed milk and stir mildly to incorporate.
4. Gently pour milk and espresso into the cup at the same time, and be careful that waste is not created.
5. Plate up right away and tuck in your customized cup in Cortado.

video Recipe of Starbucks Cortado

My Personal Review

As a regular Starbucks customer who drinks all those fancy coffees, I have the chance to find out about the various types of their drinks. Still, there is one crowded and flavorful cup that always seems to manage to grab one of my favorite spots in life: the Cortado.

What I most enjoyed about the cortado was its extraordinary balance and how the ingredients fit the bill for each other. The extractor will give an espresso drink an ebullient, cultivated flavor, while the oh-so-velvety texture of the milk will add nobleness to it. That summarises how these are an orchestra of flavors and should not have any individual components overshadowing the other.

Basically, I am quite fond of the Cortado drink of Starbucks coffee. It’s just the right best illustration of a vibrant, rich espresso and a silky, creamy milk, the kind of beverage that always puts a smile to my lips and satiety to my coffee cravings. Whether I end up with a doppio cien to wake myself up or a soothing goose to my taste buds, Cortado is not going to be my go-to coffee.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Starbucks Cortado exemplifies the perfect harmony between rich espresso and creamy steamed milk, offering a sophisticated and satisfying coffee experience. Its roots in Spanish coffee culture provide a touch of tradition, while Starbucks’ commitment to quality and innovation ensures every cup is crafted to perfection. The Cortado’s balanced flavor profile makes it an ideal choice for those who appreciate the nuances of a well-made coffee. 

Whether enjoyed as a morning energizer or a relaxing afternoon treat, this beverage caters to both seasoned coffee aficionados and newcomers alike. By integrating the Cortado into their diverse menu, Starbucks not only honors a classic coffee tradition but also introduces it to a broader audience, inviting everyone to indulge in its delightful complexity. Experience the refined taste and comforting embrace of the Starbucks Cortado, a drink that truly elevates the coffee experience to new heights.

FAQs

1. What is a Cortado?

A Cortado is a classic Spanish coffee drink that consists of espresso and an equal amount of warm, steamed milk. The name “cortado” comes from the Spanish word “cortar,” meaning “to cut,” which refers to the way the milk is used to “cut” the intensity of the espresso.

2. How is the Starbucks Cortado made?

The Starbucks Cortado is made by combining two shots of espresso with an equal amount of steamed 2% milk. This creates a beautifully balanced and harmonious beverage, where the rich, bold flavor of the espresso is perfectly tempered by the creamy, smooth texture of the milk.

3. What are the different Cortado sizes at Starbucks?

Starbucks offers the Cortado in three different sizes:

• Short (3 oz)
• Tall (8 oz)
• Grande (12 oz)

4. How many calories are in a Starbucks Cortado?

The calorie count for a Starbucks Cortado varies depending on the size:

• Short Cortado: 70 calories
• Tall Cortado: 100 calories
• Grande Cortado: 130 calories

These calorie counts are for the standard Cortado made with 2% reduced-fat milk. If you choose to customize your Cortado with a different type of milk, the calorie content may differ.

5. Can I make a Starbucks Cortado at home?

Yes, you can easily recreate a Starbucks-worthy Cortado at home with just a few simple ingredients and equipment. All you need is freshly brewed espresso and steamed milk. You can even experiment with different milk types and add your own flavor syrups to create customized versions of the Cortado.