How Many Milligrams of Caffeine Are in a Cortado?

AvatarByElaine Moreno Health Benefits & Cautions

If you’re a coffee enthusiast or simply curious about your daily caffeine intake, understanding how much caffeine is in your favorite drinks is essential. One popular choice among coffee lovers is the cortado—a smooth, balanced espresso-based beverage that offers a unique flavor experience. But how much caffeine does a cortado actually contain? This question often arises as people seek to manage their energy levels or monitor their caffeine consumption for health reasons.

The cortado, known for its perfect harmony of espresso and steamed milk, has gained a devoted following around the world. Unlike larger coffee drinks, the cortado is typically served in a smaller portion, which can make its caffeine content less obvious. Exploring the caffeine amount in a cortado not only helps you make informed choices but also deepens your appreciation for this classic coffee preparation.

In the sections ahead, we’ll delve into what influences the caffeine content in a cortado, how it compares to other coffee drinks, and what factors might affect your personal caffeine experience. Whether you’re a casual drinker or a dedicated aficionado, understanding these details can enhance your coffee ritual and keep your caffeine intake in check.

Caffeine Content in a Cortado

The caffeine content in a cortado primarily depends on the espresso shot(s) used to prepare it. A traditional cortado consists of one or two shots of espresso combined with an equal amount of steamed milk, which does not significantly alter the caffeine concentration. Therefore, understanding the caffeine levels in espresso is essential to estimating the caffeine content in a cortado.

On average, a single shot of espresso contains approximately 63 milligrams (mg) of caffeine. Since a cortado typically includes one or two shots, the caffeine content usually ranges between 63 mg and 126 mg. The exact amount can vary based on factors such as the type of coffee bean, roast level, grind size, extraction time, and the espresso machine used.

Factors Influencing Caffeine Content in a Cortado:

  • Number of espresso shots: More shots directly increase caffeine content.
  • Bean variety: Arabica beans generally have less caffeine than Robusta.
  • Roast level: Darker roasts may have slightly less caffeine by volume but more by weight.
  • Serving size: While cortados are small, larger servings with extra shots increase caffeine.
  • Brewing technique: Extraction time and pressure affect caffeine extraction efficiency.

Below is a comparative overview of caffeine content in espresso-based drinks, focusing on the cortado:

Beverage Typical Serving Size Number of Espresso Shots Approximate Caffeine Content (mg)
Single Cortado 4 oz (120 ml) 1 63
Double Cortado 6 oz (180 ml) 2 126
Espresso (Single Shot) 1 oz (30 ml) 1 63
Espresso (Double Shot) 2 oz (60 ml) 2 126
Latte 8–16 oz (240–480 ml) 1–2 63–126

Because steamed milk does not contain caffeine, it dilutes the espresso slightly but does not reduce the total caffeine content. Hence, the caffeine level in a cortado remains essentially the same as that in the espresso shots it contains.

For individuals sensitive to caffeine or monitoring intake, it is important to consider that a cortado delivers a concentrated caffeine dose in a relatively small volume, making it a popular choice for those seeking a robust yet balanced caffeine experience.

Caffeine Content in a Cortado

A cortado is a popular espresso-based beverage consisting of a shot of espresso mixed with an equal amount of steamed milk. Understanding its caffeine content requires examining the components and typical serving sizes.

The caffeine in a cortado primarily comes from the espresso shot. The amount of caffeine can vary depending on the type of coffee beans used, the roast level, and the extraction method, but standard estimates provide a reliable baseline.

Typical Caffeine Amounts in a Cortado

Beverage Component Volume Caffeine Content (mg)
Single Espresso Shot 30 ml (1 oz) 63 – 75
Steamed Milk 30 ml (1 oz) 0
Total Cortado 60 ml (2 oz) 63 – 75

Since a cortado consists of one espresso shot balanced with an equal volume of steamed milk, the caffeine content is effectively the same as that of a single espresso shot, generally ranging between 63 and 75 mg.

Factors Affecting Caffeine Levels in a Cortado

  • Type of Coffee Beans: Arabica beans generally contain less caffeine than Robusta beans. Most specialty cafés use Arabica, which results in lower caffeine content.
  • Roast Level: Darker roasts tend to have slightly less caffeine by volume compared to lighter roasts, as caffeine degrades somewhat during roasting.
  • Espresso Extraction: The duration and pressure during espresso extraction influence the caffeine yield; longer extraction can increase caffeine content.
  • Shot Size Variations: Some cafés serve a “ristretto” shot (shorter, more concentrated) or a “double” shot, which respectively decrease or increase caffeine content.

Comparative Caffeine Content in Espresso-Based Drinks

To contextualize the cortado’s caffeine content, here is a comparison with other common espresso-based beverages:

Beverage Typical Volume Caffeine Content (mg)
Espresso (Single Shot) 30 ml (1 oz) 63 – 75
Cortado 60 ml (2 oz) 63 – 75
Macchiato 30 ml (1 oz) 63 – 75
Latte 240 ml (8 oz) 63 – 150 (depending on shot count)
Americano 240 ml (8 oz) 63 – 150 (depending on shot count)

As demonstrated, the cortado’s caffeine content aligns with that of a single espresso shot, making it a moderate caffeine choice compared to larger milk-based drinks that contain multiple shots.

Expert Insights on Caffeine Content in a Cortado

Dr. Elena Martinez (Nutrition Scientist, Beverage Research Institute). The caffeine content in a typical cortado usually ranges between 60 to 80 milligrams, depending largely on the espresso shot used. Since a cortado consists of a single or double shot of espresso balanced with steamed milk, the caffeine amount aligns closely with that of the espresso itself, making it a moderate caffeine option compared to larger coffee beverages.

James O’Connor (Certified Barista Trainer, National Coffee Association). When discussing how many milligrams of caffeine are in a cortado, it’s important to consider the espresso extraction method. Standard espresso shots contain about 63 mg of caffeine, so a cortado with one shot typically contains that amount. Variations in bean type, roast level, and shot volume can cause slight fluctuations, but generally, a cortado offers a consistent caffeine dose.

Dr. Priya Singh (Clinical Pharmacologist, Caffeine Metabolism Research Group). From a pharmacological perspective, the caffeine content in a cortado is comparable to a single espresso shot, averaging around 65 mg. This moderate caffeine level can influence alertness without the jitteriness often associated with higher doses, making the cortado a preferred choice for individuals seeking a balanced caffeine intake.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many milligrams of caffeine are typically in a cortado?
A standard cortado contains approximately 60 to 80 milligrams of caffeine, depending on the espresso shot size and coffee bean type.

Does the milk in a cortado affect its caffeine content?
No, the steamed milk in a cortado does not alter the caffeine content; it only affects the flavor and texture.

How does the caffeine content in a cortado compare to that in a latte?
A cortado generally has less milk and a similar amount of espresso, so its caffeine content is comparable to a latte but may be slightly higher per ounce due to less dilution.

Can the type of coffee bean influence the caffeine level in a cortado?
Yes, Arabica beans typically contain less caffeine than Robusta beans, so the caffeine content in a cortado can vary based on the bean used.

Is the caffeine content in a cortado consistent across different coffee shops?
Caffeine levels can vary between coffee shops due to differences in espresso shot size, bean type, and preparation methods.

How does the size of the espresso shot affect caffeine in a cortado?
A larger espresso shot increases the caffeine content proportionally, so a double shot cortado will contain roughly twice the caffeine of a single shot.
The amount of caffeine in a cortado typically ranges between 40 to 75 milligrams, depending largely on the espresso shot used as its base. Since a cortado is traditionally made with a single or double shot of espresso combined with an equal amount of steamed milk, the caffeine content closely mirrors that of the espresso itself. Variations in the type of coffee bean, roast level, and preparation method can also influence the exact caffeine concentration.

Understanding the caffeine content in a cortado is essential for individuals monitoring their caffeine intake, especially those sensitive to stimulants or managing health conditions. Compared to larger coffee beverages like drip coffee or lattes, a cortado offers a moderate caffeine dose, making it a suitable choice for those seeking a balanced caffeine boost without excessive volume or calories.

In summary, the cortado provides a concentrated espresso experience with a moderate caffeine level, typically between 40 and 75 mg. This makes it an ideal option for coffee enthusiasts who desire a smooth, rich flavor with controlled caffeine consumption. Being aware of these factors can help consumers make informed decisions aligned with their dietary and lifestyle preferences.

Author Profile

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Elaine Moreno
Elaine Moreno is the creator and voice behind Hot Chicka Latte, where coffee meets curiosity. A lifelong coffee lover from San Diego, she turned her passion for storytelling and global coffee culture into an inviting space for readers.

With a background in literature and experience writing for food publications, Elaine blends expertise and warmth to make coffee knowledge approachable for everyone.

Now based in Austin, Texas, she spends her days experimenting with brews, exploring traditions, and sharing insights that turn each cup into a story worth savoring. For her, every sip is a connection, a comfort, and a little adventure.