Cortadito means “short cut” in Spanish, as the milk essentially “cuts” the strong espresso. Basically, this is a shot of Cuban espresso mixed with steamed milk. Here are the easy steps!
The classic method uses a Moka pot, which is what we're doing here. If you're using a different method, prepare your espresso as usual.
Fill the bottom section with filtered water up to the safety release valve. Fill the filter basket with finely-ground coffee, leveled off but not packed. Place filter into the bottom section and then attach the top section.
Place on stove and turn on to medium heat. You don’t want to rush the process or overcook the coffee.
Warm your milk.
Warm the milk or evaporated milk on the stovetop or in the microwave. Be careful not to scorch it - you want it hot but not boiling.
Prepare your espuma.
Place 4 teaspoons (to taste) of sugar in a creamer or small bowl. Once about an ounce of espresso appears in the top of your Moka pot, remove it from the heat. Pour it over the sugar and then return the pot to the stove to finish brewing.
Whisk the sugar and espresso until the sugar dissolves and a layer of light brown foam appears.
Put it all together.
Once the rest of the espresso is brewed and ready, remove from heat. Pour the espresso into your coffee cup. Add the warm milk to each mug so there is a 1:1 ratio of espresso to milk.
Top with espuma and enjoy! Grab a friend and enjoy a sweet coffee moment together.