The flat white is where bold espresso meets smooth, velvety milk. Originally popularized in Australia and New Zealand, this drink has gained global recognition as the perfect middle ground between a latte and a cappuccino.
What makes a flat white unique is its microfoam—a finely textured, silky milk layer that blends seamlessly into the espresso, creating a rich, creamy sip without the thick foam of a cappuccino or the milk-heavy texture of a latte.
What Makes a Flat White Different?
☕ Less Milk Than a Latte, More Than a Cappuccino – A flat white has less milk than a latte, allowing the espresso’s boldness to shine, while still maintaining a creamy texture.
☕ Smooth, Velvety Microfoam – Unlike the airier foam of a cappuccino, the flat white’s milk is steamed to create a silky, integrated texture.
☕ A Stronger Espresso Presence – With less milk than a latte, the flat white delivers a more concentrated espresso flavor, making it a favorite for those who love bold yet smooth coffee.
How to Make a Flat White
☕ Ingredients
- 2 tbsp (10g) finely ground coffee
- 6 oz (180ml) cold, filtered water (for brewing espresso)
- 4–6 oz (120–180ml) steamed milk
🌡 Temperature Guide
- Brew water: 195–205°F (90–96°C)
- Milk steaming: 130–150°F (55–65°C) (lower than a latte to create smoother microfoam)
Step-by-Step Brewing Guide
1️⃣ Brew a Double Shot of Espresso
Use an espresso machine to extract 2 oz (60ml) of espresso.
2️⃣ Steam the Milk
- Heat 4–6 oz (120–180ml) of milk to a silky, velvety texture.
- Unlike a cappuccino, a flat white should have no thick foam—just smooth, microfoamed milk.
3️⃣ Breathe It In
☕ Breathe it in. The scent of fresh coffee is an invitation to awaken—not just the body, but the soul. That’s why we encourage you to take that extra second or two to pause and enjoy your coffee before drinking by smelling it and thinking, “Taste and see that the Lord is good.”
4️⃣ Pour the Milk Over the Espresso
- Slowly pour the microfoam into the espresso, allowing it to blend seamlessly.
- The surface should be smooth, with no thick foam or bubbles.
5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy
A flat white is traditionally served in a 5–6 oz (150–180ml) cup, making it smaller than a latte but richer and stronger.
Flat White vs. Other Espresso Drinks
✔ Flat White vs. Latte – A latte has more milk and a lighter espresso taste, while a flat white has less milk and a stronger coffee flavor.
✔ Flat White vs. Cappuccino – A cappuccino has equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and thick foam, while a flat white has only silky steamed milk with no thick foam.
✔ Flat White vs. Cortado – A cortado is equal parts espresso and steamed milk, while a flat white has more milk and a velvety microfoam texture.
Why Choose a Flat White?
✔ For Those Who Love a Creamy Yet Bold Espresso Experience – The flat white is smooth and rich without being too milky or foamy.
✔ A Favorite Among Espresso Purists – The microfoam allows the natural flavors of espresso to shine, giving you the best of both worlds—boldness and smoothness.
✔ A Café Culture Classic – Originally from Australia & New Zealand, the flat white is a favorite of coffee lovers worldwide.
☕ Next Up: Mocha – When Chocolate and Coffee Become One
