What is Starbucks Cortado? Everything to know about the newest addition to the Espresso lineup

Starbucks Cortado has been added to the brand's espresso lineup, paying homage to its roots in Spain's Basque Country. In the ever-evolving world of coffee, some beverages stand out not for their complexity but for their simplicity and timeless appeal. The Cortado is one such drink, cherished for its perfect balance of bold espresso and creamy milk.

Crafted with three ristretto shots of Blonde Espresso, the Starbucks Cortado offers a smooth and balanced profile. Available in two variations: traditional with steamed whole milk and a non-dairy Brown Sugar Oatmilk option, it caters to diverse tastes while maintaining its signature essence. Its petite 8-ounce size highlights the rich espresso flavor, delivering a refined coffee experience.

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Understanding the Starbucks Cortado: A blend of bold and creamy

Starbucks Cortado is crafted with three ristretto shots (Image via Starbucks)

The origins and significance of the Cortado

The Cortado has a long-standing history rooted in Spain’s Basque Country, where it emerged as a popular coffee beverage over a century ago. Its name is derived from the Spanish word "cortar," meaning "to cut," which is an apt description of the drink's composition. The strong espresso flavor is “cut” by the addition of steamed milk, resulting in a well-balanced beverage.

Brown Sugar Oatmilk Cortado (Image via Starbucks)

Starbucks claims to remain true to the traditional preparation of the Cortado while adding its own signature elements. With three ristretto shots of Starbucks Blonde Espresso as its base, the drink gives a sweeter and more concentrated coffee flavor. Steamed whole milk completes the beverage, creating the velvety texture that defines a classic Cortado.

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What sets the Starbucks Cortado apart?

One key feature of the Starbucks Cortado is its use of ristretto shots, which has a shorter extraction process. Ristretto, an Italian term for "restricted," uses less water to create a richer and less bitter espresso shot. This method enhances the sweetness and intensity of the coffee, providing a unique foundation for the Cortado.

The Cortado is served in an 8-ounce size, emphasizing its espresso-forward nature and ensuring the right balance of flavors. Alongside the traditional recipe, the Brown Sugar Oatmilk Cortado offers a non-dairy alternative. Featuring brown sugar syrup, steamed oatmilk, and a touch of cinnamon, this variation offers a unique flavor profile while maintaining the essence of the Cortado.

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The Cortado's role in Starbucks' espresso lineup

The Cortado adds to the renowned collection of Starbucks espresso beverages (Image via Starbucks)

By introducing Cortado, Starbucks expands its lineup of handcrafted espresso drinks. Joining classics like Caffè Americano, Cappuccino, and Flat White, the Cortado offers a distinct experience focused on simplicity and flavor balance. Its small size and espresso-forward nature cater to those seeking a more concentrated coffee experience without added sweetness or elaborate toppings.

The Brown Sugar Oatmilk Cortado, on the other hand, brings a modern twist to the traditional recipe. As a permanent addition to the menu, it provides a flavorful option for those who prefer non-dairy alternatives. It highlights Starbucks’ effort to cater to evolving preferences while preserving the essence of traditional coffee drinks.

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New Starbucks merchandise for the new year

Starbucks welcomes a fresh collection of winter merchandise in seasonal shades (Image via Starbucks)

On January 3, 2025, Starbucks launched its winter merchandise collection alongside the Starbucks Cortado. The lineup includes tumblers, cold cups, mugs, and water bottles in vibrant seasonal hues like pink, blue, and green. Available for a limited time, customers using clean reusable cups enjoy a $0.10 discount and 25 Bonus Stars for Rewards members.*

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The Starbucks Cortado isn’t just another menu addition; it’s a mix of classic coffee culture and modern tastes. The traditional version and the Brown Sugar Oatmilk option bring something for everyone while showcasing the craft of espresso.