Brown Sugar Oatmilk Cortado: A Twist on the Classic

Let’s explore a modern take on the classic cortado coffee—the Brown Sugar Oatmilk Cortado! This variation balances rich shots of espresso with creamy oat milk, a touch of brown sugar syrup, and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a flavor that’s absolutely delicious. It’s a new offering at Starbucks and it's perfect for those who love a small drink that packs a big flavor punch!

If you’re anything like me, the buzz around Starbucks’ new Brown Sugar Oatmilk Cortado has caught your attention! At nearly $6 a pop, those daily trips to the coffee shop can really add up. Thankfully, you don’t need to shell out the big bucks to enjoy this dreamy drink! With just a few simple ingredients and a little time, you can recreate the magic right at home—no fancy barista skills required.

Whether you’ve already fallen in love with my Hot Chocolate Coffee, whipped up an Almond Milk Latte, or indulged in a Honey Latte, this Brown Sugar Oatmilk Cortado is the next must-try addition to your at-home café lineup. With its velvety oat milk, caramel-like brown sugar syrup, and robust espresso, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Let’s skip the drive-thru and get brewing! You’ll be amazed at how quickly and easily this luxurious drink comes together.

What is a Cortado?

The word cortado, derived from the Spanish verb "cortar," means "to cut." This Spanish drink originated in the Basque Country of Spain and spread across coffee shops worldwide, including those in San Francisco and the northern part of Portugal. The name reflects the drink’s purpose: cutting the bitterness of espresso with just the right amount of hot milk, creating a perfect balance of boldness and smoothness!

A cortado coffee is all about balance—equal parts espresso and steamed milk, typically served in small cups or a Gibraltar glass. Its small size and ideal espresso ratio make it a popular choice among coffee lovers who enjoy a flavorful, creamy experience. The addition of brown sugar syrup and oat milk in this version elevates the classic cortado into something truly special.

Why You’ll Love This Cortado Drink

This espresso-based drink elevates the typical cortado by adding the subtle sweetness of brown sugar syrup and the velvety smoothness of oat milk. It’s:

• Quick & Easy: With just a few ingredients, you can create a perfect cup of cortado at home in under 5 minutes.
• A Coffee Shop Favorite: Recreate the experience of your local coffee shop or Starbucks with this approachable and very sophisticated drink that rivals your favorite menu of coffee drinks.
• Customizable: Adjust the ratio of milk or add extra frothy milk for a personalized touch.

Ingredients for the Perfect Drink

To make this coffee drink, you’ll need:

• Espresso: Use freshly brewed ristretto shots or a single shot of espresso for the best results. Any finely ground coffee beans will do, but medium or dark roasts pair best with the sweetness of the syrup.
• Oat Milk: A creamy, barista-style oat milk provides the perfect base. For more indulgence, try whole milk, or experiment with light milk for a piccolo latte feel.
• Brown Sugar Syrup: Combine equal parts brown sugar and water to create a caramel-like sweetness. Swap in honey syrups or maple syrup for a different twist.
• Cinnamon: Just a pinch enhances the warming, cozy flavors.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Espresso Maker: Whether it’s a countertop model or a stovetop moka pot, freshly pulled shots are the key to success.
• Milk Frother: A handheld frother or steam wand creates the perfect texture for your steamed milk, with just the right amount of foam.
• Small Glass: A Gibraltar glass or Libbey glass is ideal for serving, adding an authentic coffeehouse feel!

How to Make a Brown Sugar Oatmilk Cortado

Prepare the Brown Sugar Syrup: Mix 1 tablespoon of brown sugar with 1 tablespoon of water in a small pan. Heat until dissolved, then set aside.

Brew the Espresso: Pull 2 shots of espresso (or about 2 ounces) using your favorite coffee beans. Pour into a small glass or mug.

Steam the Oat Milk: Heat 2 ounces of oat milk to about 140°F, ensuring it doesn’t boil. Froth lightly for a silky texture, but avoid creating too much milk foam for the perfect espresso ratio.

Assemble the Drink: Stir 1-2 teaspoons of the syrup into the espresso. Slowly pour in the steamed milk, leaving room for little foam on top with a touch of cinnamon.

Optional Variations

• Iced Cortado: Skip steaming the milk and serve over ice for a refreshing twist!
• Au Lait Style: Increase the milk ratio for a softer flavor profile, similar to a flat white or latte au lait.
• Decaf Cortado: Use decaf beans to enjoy this treat any time of day.
• Leche y Leche Cortado: Add a layer of sweetened condensed milk for a Latin-inspired variation!
• Simple Syrup Variations: Replace the brown sugar simple syrup with the flavor of your choosing! Switching to a honey syrup, vanilla syrup or orange simple syrup would be delicious.

Expert Tips

• Fresh Espresso: Use freshly pulled espresso shots for the best flavor - stale espresso can alter the taste!
• Milk Temperature: Heat your milk to about 130-150°F to avoid scorching and allow for the best texture.
• Perfect Ratio: The ideal espresso ratio to milk is 1:1, though you can adjust based on your personal preference.

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