Ever walked into a Starbucks and found yourself overwhelmed by the coffee jargon on the menu? No worries, we’ve got you covered. We will guide you step by step on how to order a cortado at Starbucks.
The cortado is a delicate balance of espresso and milk, creating a robust yet smooth beverage. Let us break down the mystery and make your next Starbucks order a breeze.
Table of Contents
What is Starbucks Cortado Coffee?
Before we dive into the ordering process, it’s important to understand what a cortado is.
A cortado, hailing from Spain, is an espresso-based drink that incorporates equal parts of espresso and steamed milk. The aim? To cut through the acidity of the espresso and produce a well-rounded, robust yet sweet cup of coffee.
Why a Starbucks Cortado?
Perhaps you’re thinking, “Why should I venture into unknown territory and order a cortado?” Here’s why:
- A cortado allows you to taste the rich coffee flavor without it being overpowered by milk.
- It’s a perfect midday pick-me-up, less intense than a straight shot of espresso yet stronger than a latte.
- It offers a chance to indulge in something new and broaden your coffee horizons.
How to Order a Cortado at Starbucks
While Starbucks does not list the cortado on its official menu, their skilled baristas can easily whip one up for you. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: The Order
Walk up to the counter and ask for a “double shot of espresso with an equal amount of steamed milk.” That’s essentially what a cortado is.
Step 2: Size
Choose the size. A traditional cortado is typically 4 ounces – 2 ounces of espresso and 2 ounces of milk. If you want this, order a “Short” cup.
Step 3: Customization
Customize your order. Want a flavored cortado? Request a pump or two of your favorite syrup. Prefer a dairy-free version? Ask for almond, soy, or oat milk.
Expert Tips for Ordering a Cortado Coffee at Starbucks
Don’t Hesitate to Ask
If you’re unsure about any aspect of your order, don’t hesitate to ask your barista for clarification. Starbucks prides itself on its customer service, and their baristas are well-trained to answer your queries.
Customize to Taste
Feel free to modify your cortado to suit your palate. Whether you want it a little stronger, a tad sweeter, or entirely dairy-free, the possibilities are endless.
Enjoy Your Cortado
Savor each sip. Enjoy the balance of strong, bold espresso and creamy, slightly sweet milk. Each sip is an experience in itself, so sit back and savor the moment.
Conclusion
Learning how to order a cortado at Starbucks is as simple as that. It’s a rewarding experience that adds a dash of sophistication to your usual coffee run. So next time you’re at Starbucks, step out of your comfort zone, and order a cortado. We promise you won’t be disappointed!
Frequently Asked Questions
- What does a cortado taste like? A cortado tastes like a robust, well-rounded coffee with the sharpness of the espresso softened by the creamy milk.
- Is a cortado stronger than a latte? Yes, a cortado is stronger than a latte. It has a higher ratio of coffee to milk, resulting in a bolder coffee flavor.
- Can I add sugar to my cortado? Yes, you can add sugar to your cortado if you prefer it sweeter. However, traditionally, the milk’s natural sweetness balances the espresso’s bitterness.
- Does Starbucks have a cortado on its official menu? No, Starbucks does not list the cortado on its official menu. However, the baristas can make one for you if you ask.
- Can I get a cortado in a larger size at Starbucks? Yes, you can order a cortado in any size at Starbucks, though traditionally it is served in a “Short” cup to maintain the coffee-milk balance.