Brown Sugar Oatmilk Cortado: The Ultimate Guide to Making It at Home

Brown Sugar Oatmilk Cortado: Prepare to elevate your coffee ritual with this delightful and surprisingly simple beverage. Forget the long lines and hefty price tags at your local coffee shop; you can now craft this café-worthy treat in the comfort of your own kitchen. Have you ever wondered how to recreate that perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and caffeinated bliss? Well, wonder no more!

The cortado, originating from Spain, is traditionally a simple drink of equal parts espresso and steamed milk, designed to cut through the acidity of the espresso. Our version takes this classic concept and infuses it with the comforting warmth of brown sugar and the smooth, plant-based goodness of oat milk. While not steeped in centuries of tradition like its espresso-based ancestor, the brown sugar oatmilk cortado has quickly gained popularity for its delicious flavor profile and accessibility.

People adore this drink for its harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The rich, caramel-like notes of brown sugar perfectly complement the robust espresso, while the oat milk adds a velvety smoothness that’s both satisfying and dairy-free. It’s a treat that feels indulgent yet remains relatively easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy mornings or cozy afternoons. Plus, the customizable sweetness level allows you to tailor it to your exact preferences. Get ready to discover your new favorite coffee indulgence!

Ingredients:

• For the Brown Sugar Syrup:
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (optional, but recommended)
• For the Cortado:
• Double shot of espresso (approximately 2 ounces)
• 4-6 ounces oat milk (or more, to taste)
• Ice cubes (optional, for iced cortado)
• Pinch of ground cinnamon (for garnish, optional)

Making the Brown Sugar Syrup:

1. Combine Sugar and Water: In a medium saucepan, combine the packed light brown sugar and water. Make sure to use a saucepan that’s large enough to accommodate the mixture as it simmers, preventing any boil-overs.
2. Simmer the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until the brown sugar is completely dissolved in the water. This is crucial to prevent the sugar from crystallizing later.
3. Reduce and Thicken: Once the sugar is dissolved, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat slightly if needed to maintain a simmer, not a rolling boil. Let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the syrup has thickened slightly. You’ll notice it coating the back of a spoon more easily. Be careful not to overcook it, as it will thicken further as it cools.
4. Incorporate Vanilla and Salt: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and sea salt (if using). The vanilla adds a lovely depth of flavor, and the salt enhances the sweetness and adds a subtle complexity.
5. Cool Completely: Allow the brown sugar syrup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. As it cools, it will thicken to a more syrupy consistency. This usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour.
6. Store Properly: Once cooled, transfer the syrup to a clean, airtight container (a glass jar works well). Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. The syrup will thicken further in the fridge, so you might need to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before using it if it becomes too thick.

Preparing the Espresso:

1. Grind Your Beans: Start with freshly roasted coffee beans. Grind them to a fine consistency suitable for espresso. The grind size is crucial for proper extraction; too coarse, and you’ll get a weak, sour espresso; too fine, and it will be bitter and over-extracted.
2. Tamp the Grounds: If using an espresso machine, dose the ground coffee into the portafilter and tamp it firmly and evenly. Tamping creates a consistent puck of coffee, ensuring that the water flows through it evenly. Aim for about 30 pounds of pressure.
3. Pull the Shot: Insert the portafilter into the espresso machine and pull a double shot of espresso (approximately 2 ounces). The extraction should take around 25-30 seconds. Watch the color of the espresso as it extracts; it should start as a dark, rich brown and gradually lighten to a blonde color.
4. Alternative Espresso Methods: If you don’t have an espresso machine, you can use a Moka pot or an Aeropress to make a concentrated coffee that will work as a substitute. Follow the instructions for your chosen method to brew a strong, concentrated coffee.

Assembling the Brown Sugar Oatmilk Cortado:

1. Prepare Your Glass: Choose a small glass or cup, typically around 4-6 ounces in size. This is the traditional size for a cortado, but you can adjust it to your preference.
2. Add Brown Sugar Syrup: Pour 1-2 tablespoons of the brown sugar syrup into the bottom of the glass. Adjust the amount to your desired level of sweetness. Remember that the syrup is quite concentrated, so start with less and add more if needed.
3. Steam the Oat Milk: Steam the oat milk until it is warm and slightly frothy. Oat milk steams beautifully, creating a smooth and velvety texture. If you don’t have a milk frother, you can heat the oat milk in a saucepan over medium heat, whisking constantly to create some froth. Alternatively, you can use a handheld milk frother.
4. Pour the Oat Milk: Gently pour the steamed oat milk over the brown sugar syrup. Leave a little room at the top for the espresso. The goal is to create a roughly equal ratio of espresso to milk.
5. Add the Espresso: Slowly pour the double shot of espresso over the oat milk. The espresso should create a beautiful layered effect.
6. Optional: Add Ice: If you prefer an iced cortado, add ice cubes to the glass before pouring in the brown sugar syrup, oat milk, and espresso.
7. Garnish (Optional): Sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon on top for a warm and inviting aroma and flavor. You can also add a drizzle of brown sugar syrup for extra sweetness and visual appeal.
8. Stir and Enjoy: Gently stir the cortado to combine the flavors. Take a sip and savor the rich, sweet, and slightly nutty taste of the brown sugar oatmilk cortado. Adjust the sweetness to your liking by adding more brown sugar syrup if desired.

Tips and Variations:

• Adjusting Sweetness: The amount of brown sugar syrup can be adjusted to your personal preference. Start with a smaller amount and add more until you reach your desired level of sweetness.
• Type of Oat Milk: Different brands of oat milk have varying levels of sweetness and creaminess. Experiment with different brands to find one that you enjoy the most. Barista-style oat milk is often preferred for its ability to steam well and create a creamy texture.
• Spice Variations: Experiment with different spices in the brown sugar syrup. A pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom can add a warm and festive flavor.
• Alternative Sweeteners: If you prefer a less refined sweetener, you can use coconut sugar or maple syrup in place of brown sugar. Keep in mind that these sweeteners will have a slightly different flavor profile.
• Dairy-Free Whipped Cream: For an extra decadent treat, top your cortado with dairy-free whipped cream.
• Cold Brew Cortado: For a refreshing twist, use cold brew concentrate instead of espresso. This will create a smoother and less acidic drink.
• Brown Sugar Oatmilk Latte: If you prefer a larger drink, simply increase the amount of oat milk to create a latte.

Troubleshooting:

• Syrup Too Thick: If your brown sugar syrup becomes too thick after cooling, simply add a tablespoon or two of water and gently heat it until it thins out.
• Espresso Too Bitter: If your espresso is too bitter, try using a coarser grind or reducing the extraction time.
• Oat Milk Not Steaming Well: Make sure your oat milk is cold before steaming it. Also, use a barista-style oat milk for best results.

Enjoy your homemade Brown Sugar Oatmilk Cortado!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! This Brown Sugar Oatmilk Cortado is truly a game-changer for your morning (or afternoon!) coffee ritual. It’s more than just a caffeine fix; it’s a comforting, subtly sweet, and utterly delightful experience that you can easily create in your own kitchen. I know I’ve said it before, but the combination of the rich espresso, the creamy oat milk, and that deep, molasses-y brown sugar syrup is simply irresistible. Why is this a must-try? Well, for starters, it’s incredibly easy to make. Forget complicated barista techniques and expensive equipment. This recipe uses simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible to everyone, regardless of their coffee-making skills. Secondly, it’s customizable! Don’t have oat milk? Almond milk or soy milk will work in a pinch, though the oat milk really does lend a unique creaminess that I highly recommend. Want it sweeter? Add a touch more brown sugar syrup. Prefer a stronger coffee flavor? Use a double shot of espresso. The possibilities are endless! Beyond the ease and customizability, this cortado offers a sophisticated flavor profile that rivals anything you’d find at a fancy coffee shop. The brown sugar adds a depth and warmth that regular sugar simply can’t match, and the oat milk provides a naturally sweet and creamy base that perfectly complements the espresso. It’s a truly elevated coffee experience that you can enjoy from the comfort of your own home.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Cortado: For a refreshing twist, simply pour the cortado over ice. It’s the perfect pick-me-up on a hot day! * Spiced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Cortado: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the brown sugar syrup for a warm and cozy flavor. * Brown Sugar Oatmilk Latte: If you prefer a larger, milkier drink, simply increase the amount of oat milk. * Vegan Brown Sugar Whipped Cream Topping: Elevate your cortado with a dollop of homemade vegan whipped cream sweetened with brown sugar. It’s decadent and delicious! * Brown Sugar Oatmilk Cold Brew: Combine the brown sugar syrup with cold brew concentrate and oat milk for a smooth and less acidic coffee experience. I truly believe that this Brown Sugar Oatmilk Cortado will become a staple in your coffee routine. It’s a simple, delicious, and customizable recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy morning pick-me-up or a sophisticated afternoon treat, this cortado is sure to satisfy. So, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and give this recipe a try! I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. And please, don’t forget to share your experience! I’d love to hear your thoughts, variations, and any tips you might have. Leave a comment below, tag me in your photos on social media, and let’s spread the love for this amazing coffee creation! I can’t wait to see what you come up with. Happy brewing!

Print