Cortado and Flat White Recipe: How to Make Both at Home

The cortado and the flat white are two of the most misunderstood drinks in coffee. They’re often confused, occasionally listed as the same thing, and wildly inconsistent from café to café. Here’s the definitive breakdown — including exactly how to make both at home. Cortado vs. Flat White: The Key Differences Let’s get this straight before anything else: Cortado Flat White Origin Spain Australia/New Zealand Size 4–5 oz 5–6 oz Espresso Double shot (2 oz) Double ristretto (1.5 oz) Milk 2–3 oz steamed (small amount) 3–4 oz microfoam (velvety) Foam Minimal or none Thin, dense microfoam Ratio ~1:1 espresso to milk ~1:2 espresso to milk Cup Small glass or Gibraltar Small tulip cup Character Bold, coffee-forward Smooth, creamy, intense The one-sentence summary: A cortado is about cutting (literally — “cortar” in Spanish means “to cut”) the espresso’s intensity with a small amount of milk. A flat white is about surrounding espresso with silky microfoam for a smoother, creamier experience. ...

April 4, 2026 · 8 min · Home Espresso Lab

Iced Latte Recipe: How to Make a Perfect Iced Latte at Home

An iced latte is one of the most popular coffee drinks in the world — and it’s also surprisingly easy to nail at home. The key is a simple ratio and a few small techniques that make the difference between a watered-down disappointment and a barista-quality result. This guide covers everything: the basic recipe, the right ratio, milk choices, flavor variations, and exactly what to avoid. What You Need Equipment: ...

April 4, 2026 · 7 min · Home Espresso Lab