The Caramel Cortado from Costa Coffee features a bold espresso shot blended with creamy steamed milk and a smooth caramel drizzle, topped with a light foam layer, offering a rich and velvety coffee experience with a sweet finish.
Equipments
- Espresso machine
- Coffee grinder
- Tamper
- Milk steamer/wand
- Milk jug
- Espresso shot glass or demitasse cup
- Spoon (for stirring/carving foam)
- Sauce bottle (for caramel drizzle)
- Serving cup
Ingredients
- 1 shot (about 1 oz/30ml) espresso coffee beans
- 2 oz (60ml) whole milk
- 1 tablespoon caramel sauce/drizzle
- 1 shot (about 1 oz/30 ml) espresso coffee beans
- 4 oz (120 ml) whole milk
- 1 tablespoon caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
Using fresh, high-quality espresso coffee beans is essential to achieve the bold flavor characteristic of the Caramel Cortado. Whole milk is preferred for its creamy texture, which complements the smooth caramel drizzle perfectly. Measure ingredients precisely: a 1 oz shot of espresso combined with 2 oz steamed milk, and 1 tablespoon of caramel sauce ensures the ideal balance of richness and sweetness. Ensure your caramel sauce is smooth and free of crystallization to maintain a velvety finish. Your best results come from following the exact ingredient proportions in the Caramel Cortado from Costa Coffee copycat menu.
Instructions
- Instructions Needed:
- Grind espresso coffee beans freshly.
- Tamp ground coffee into the portafilter.
- Pull a 1 oz (30 ml) espresso shot into an espresso cup.
- Steam 2–4 oz (60–120 ml) whole milk to create a creamy, velvety microfoam.
- Pour caramel sauce (1 tablespoon) into the serving cup.
- Add the espresso shot over the caramel sauce.
- Gently pour steamed milk over the espresso and caramel.
- Spoon a small layer of milk foam on top.
- Drizzle extra caramel sauce over the foam.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Caramel Cortado copycat from Costa Coffee replicates a bold espresso shot mixed with steamed whole milk and a smooth caramel drizzle, topped with light foam for a rich, sweet coffee treat. If you don't have an espresso machine, try using strong brewed coffee or a Moka pot to approximate the intense flavor of the espresso. Whole milk can be substituted with oat or almond milk for a dairy-free version, but keep in mind the texture and sweetness will vary. When fresh caramel sauce is unavailable, a pre-made caramel syrup or even a drizzle of honey with a pinch of salt can provide a similar sweet finish. Your preparation can be customized by adjusting the caramel quantity according to taste, ensuring the perfect balance for your palate.
Tips
Ensure you grind your espresso beans just before brewing to preserve freshness and optimal flavor extraction. When tamping the ground coffee, apply even pressure to avoid channeling, which can cause uneven espresso shots. Steam the milk until it reaches around 140-150degF (60-65degC) to create a creamy microfoam without scalding, which can ruin the texture. Your Caramel Cortado will taste best if served right after preparation to maintain the perfect balance of temperature, foam, and caramel drizzle.
Nutritions
The Caramel Cortado from Costa Coffee provides approximately 120 calories per serving, primarily from the whole milk and caramel sauce. It contains about 6 grams of protein, 5 grams of fat, and 15 grams of carbohydrates, including sugars from the caramel drizzle. Your espresso shot adds a modest caffeine boost of around 63 mg, enhancing alertness without excessive calories. This drink offers a balanced combination of energy and flavor, ideal for a mid-day pick-me-up.
Storage
To maintain the freshness and flavor of your Caramel Cortado components, store whole espresso beans in an airtight container at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep your whole milk refrigerated at or below 40degF (4degC) and use it within 3-5 days of opening to ensure optimal creaminess for steaming. Caramel sauce should be sealed tightly and stored in a cool, dry place or refrigerated after opening to preserve its quality and sweetness.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap whole milk with oat or almond milk to cater to dairy-free preferences while maintaining a creamy texture. Try infusing the caramel sauce with a pinch of sea salt or cinnamon for a nuanced, warm flavor profile. Using a double shot of espresso instead of a single will intensify the coffee's boldness, balancing the sweetness of the caramel more effectively. Experiment with cold-brewing the coffee beans first for a smoother, less acidic taste before adding steamed milk and caramel.
Allergies
The Caramel Cortado contains whole milk, which may trigger allergic reactions in individuals with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance. The caramel sauce could also contain trace amounts of nuts or soy, common allergens found in some commercial sauces. You should check ingredient labels carefully or consult with Costa Coffee staff to ensure safety based on your specific allergy concerns.
Why this recipe?
Caramel Cortado from Costa Coffee stands out for its perfect blend of rich espresso and smooth steamed milk, accented by a luscious caramel syrup that adds a sweet, creamy depth. The balance of robust coffee flavor and indulgent sweetness creates a comforting, satisfying taste that appeals to a wide range of coffee lovers. Making a copycat version allows you to recreate this popular flavor at home, saving money and customizing sweetness to suit your preference. Your ability to enjoy this cafe favorite anytime enhances the appeal of mastering the Caramel Cortado recipe.