cinnamon cortadito recipe

Cinnamon Cortadito Recipe

Cortadito is a popular Cuban espresso drink that is sweetened with sugar and flavored with cinnamon. This delicious and warming beverage is the perfect pick-me-up for those chilly mornings or afternoons. Here’s how to make a classic cinnamon cortadito at home.

cinnamon cortadito recipe pinterest

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz freshly brewed espresso

  • 2 oz steamed milk

  • 1 tbsp sugar

  • 1 tsp cinnamon

  • Whipped cream (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Brew 2 oz of strong espresso and set aside.

  2. In a small saucepan, heat 2 oz of milk until steamy.

  3. In a mug, mix together the brewed espresso, steamed milk, sugar, and cinnamon.

  4. Stir until the sugar has dissolved.

  5. Top with whipped cream (optional) and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

  6. Enjoy your warm and cozy cinnamon cortadito.

Tips:

  • Use high-quality espresso for the best flavor.

  • Adjust the amount of sugar to taste.

  • For a foamier cortadito, use a milk frother.

There you have it! A simple and delicious recipe for a classic cinnamon cortadito. This drink is the perfect way to start your day or to enjoy a cozy afternoon. Enjoy!

What is a Cinnamon Cortadito?

A cinnamon cortadito is a sweet and warming espresso-based drink that originated in Cuba. It is made with freshly brewed espresso, steamed milk, sugar, and cinnamon, and is typically served in a small mug. The combination of the rich, bold flavor of espresso and the sweetness and warmth of cinnamon makes the cortadito a popular beverage for those seeking a pick-me-up. This delicious drink is easy to make at home and can be customized to your liking, making it a versatile and convenient choice for any coffee lover.

The Benefits of Drinking a Cinnamon Cortadito

In addition to its delicious taste, there are several health benefits to drinking a cinnamon cortadito. Here are a few of the most notable benefits:

  1. Antioxidants: Cinnamon is a great source of antioxidants, which can help to protect the body against damage from free radicals and reduce the risk of certain diseases.

  2. Anti-inflammatory: Cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties, making it an ideal drink for those with inflammation-related conditions such as arthritis or IBS.

  3. Boosts Metabolism: The caffeine in espresso can boost metabolism and increase energy levels, making the cinnamon cortadito a great option for a morning or midday pick-me-up.

  4. Aids digestion: Cinnamon has been known to aid in digestion and can help to soothe an upset stomach.

Whether you're looking for a delicious and warming beverage or a natural way to boost your health, the cinnamon cortadito is a great choice. So why not try one today?

Variations to Try with Your Cinnamon Cortadito Recipe

While the classic cinnamon cortadito recipe is delicious on its own, there are several variations that you can try to switch things up. Here are a few to consider:

  1. Chocolate Cinnamon Cortadito: Add a dash of cocoa powder or melted chocolate to your cortadito for a chocolatey twist.

  2. Caramel Cinnamon Cortadito: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of your cortadito for a sweet and indulgent treat.

  3. Vanilla Cinnamon Cortadito: Add a splash of vanilla extract to your cortadito for a creamy, vanilla flavor.

  4. Spiced Cinnamon Cortadito: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to your cortadito for a spiced twist on the classic recipe.

  5. Iced Cinnamon Cortadito: Brew a double shot of espresso and mix with the other ingredients. Pour over a glass filled with ice for a refreshing, iced cortadito.

There you have it! Whether you prefer your cortadito classic or with a twist, there is a flavor combination for everyone. So why not experiment with these variations and find your favorite?

Related Stories

View all
alaska airlines stumptown coffee roasters

From Clouds to Countertops: The World’s Best Airline Coffee — and How to Brew It at Home

The Coffee Guy

From chocolate-rich blends at 35,000 feet to single-origin elegance in premium cabins, airlines are stepping up their coffee game. Discover the world’s best in-flight brews—and how to recreate them at home with a prosumer espresso setup from Cliff & Pebble.

Lelit Mara X next to a DF64 Gen 2 in a bright kitchen

Cliff Notes: One Coffee Lover’s Upgrade Journey

The Coffee Guy

In our first edition of Cliff Notes, we talk to Alex — a young professional and Breville owner — about his path to better home espresso and what he’s eyeing next.

coffee grinder spread

How to Choose the Right Espresso Grinder for Your Machine

The Coffee Guy

The espresso grinder you choose plays a critical role in extraction quality, flavor clarity, and shot consistency. In this guide, we’ll explain how to pick the best espresso grinder based on burr type, motor power, dosing preference, and which models work best with machines like the Lelit Bianca, Mara X, and more.

lucca solo espresso machine on wooden table

Single Boiler vs Dual Boiler Espresso Machines: A Complete Comparison

The Coffee Guy

Not sure whether to choose a single boiler or dual boiler espresso machine? This in-depth comparison breaks down cost, temperature stability, workflow speed, and more — so you can confidently pick the machine that fits your lifestyle and skill level.

flow control on a lelit bianca v3 espresso machine

Pressure Profiling in Espresso Machines: What It Is & Why It Matters

The Coffee Guy

Discover the difference between true pressure profiling and flow control in espresso machines. Learn how machines like the Lelit Bianca V3 allow you to experiment with pressure-like extraction for better flavor, clarity, and consistency — even without a programmable pressure system.

la marzocco linea mini espresso machine in a lit kitchen

What to Look For in a $2,000+ Espresso Machine

The Coffee Guy

Ready to invest in a high-end espresso machine? This guide breaks down the must-have features and specs you should expect from a $2,000+ machine.

light roast coffee beans in a colorful spoon

Best Espresso Machines for Light Roast Coffee: Our Top Picks for 2025

The Coffee Guy

Light roast coffee is delicious—but difficult. In this guide, we break down why it’s so tricky to pull as espresso and which machines are best equipped for the challenge in 2025. From pressure profiling to thermal stability, we cover it all.

rocket appartamento serie nera in a dark kitchen

Rocket Appartamento in 2025: Still Iconic, Now Smarter

The Coffee Guy

Once the king of compact heat exchangers, the Rocket Appartamento has returned in 2025 with smarter tech and the same iconic style. Learn what’s new with the TCA model, how it compares to top rivals like the Mara X, and whether it’s still the right machine for your espresso journey.

4th of july themed coffee spread

Stars, Stripes, and Sips: Celebrate America with Every Cup

The Coffee Guy

This 4th of July, we’re raising a mug to freedom — and flavor. Discover festive coffee drinks, DIY brew bar ideas, and why espresso is the ultimate American dream.