What Is a Flat White?
A flat white is a creamy espresso-based coffee drink that originated in Australia or New Zealand (debated by both!). It’s made with a shot (or double shot) of espresso and steamed milk with a thin layer of microfoam on top. The result is a smooth, velvety coffee with a strong espresso flavor and a silky texture.
How Is a Flat White Different from a Latte or Cappuccino?
This is one of the most common questions coffee lovers ask:
| Drink | Milk Texture | Foam Level | Espresso Strength |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flat White | Steamed milk with microfoam | Thin layer of foam | Strong, smooth |
| Latte | More milk | Thicker foam | Milder |
| Cappuccino | Equal parts milk & foam | Thick, airy foam | Balanced |
In short: Flat white has less milk than a latte and finer foam than a cappuccino, giving you a stronger coffee flavor with a creamy mouthfeel.
What Are the Ingredients of a Flat White?
To make a flat white, you’ll need:
-
1 double shot of espresso (about 60 ml)
-
120–150 ml of steamed whole milk with microfoam
-
Optional: plant-based milk (like oat or almond), but texture may vary
How Do You Make a Flat White at Home?
Step-by-step:
-
Brew a double espresso using an espresso machine or moka pot.
-
Steam the milk until it reaches about 55–65°C (130–150°F), creating a fine microfoam (tiny, velvety bubbles).
-
Pour the milk slowly over the espresso, allowing the microfoam to gently settle on top.
-
Serve in a small ceramic cup (typically 150–180 ml / 5–6 oz).
Why Do People Love Flat Whites?
-
Stronger espresso flavor than a latte
-
Smoother texture than a cappuccino
-
Elegant presentation in small cups
-
Ideal for those who want a balanced coffee-to-milk ratio
Is Flat White a Strong Coffee?
Yes — but in a balanced way. Flat white contains more espresso than a latte relative to its milk content, making it more robust. It’s perfect for those who want a bold coffee experience without the bitterness.
Final Thoughts
If you’re tired of the usual latte or cappuccino, the flat white is a refined alternative that’s become a global café favorite. Once you try it, you might never go back!
If prepared with whole milk, it is 120-150 kcal. It can be reduced to 80 kcal with skim milk.
Ceramic preserves the aroma of the coffee by distributing heat evenly.
