If you’re a specialty coffee enthusiast, chances are you’ve come across the term flat white coffee, a velvety espresso-based beverage that’s become a favourite in cafes from Vancouver to Toronto and beyond. But what exactly is a flat white, and how does it differ from other espresso drinks like lattes, cappuccinos, or macchiatos? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the flat white, including its origins, how it’s made, the best ratio of milk to espresso, and why it’s so beloved by coffee lovers worldwide.
What Is a Flat White? All You Need to Know About Flat White Coffee
What Is a Flat White Coffee?
A flat white is an espresso-based drink made with one or two shots of espresso and steamed milk that has a smooth, velvety micro-foam. Unlike a latte, which often has more foam and a higher ratio of milk to espresso, a flat white is known for its rich espresso flavour paired with a silky texture.
At its core, the flat white is all about balance: bold coffee flavour from the espresso, delicate sweetness from the milk, and a creamy mouthfeel that enhances the overall experience. It’s typically served in a smaller cup than a latte, usually around 5 to 6 ounces (150–180 ml), which contributes to its strong flavour profile.
Flat White vs. Latte: What’s the Difference?
One of the most common questions coffee lovers ask is, “How is a flat white different from a latte?” While they may seem similar, both are espresso drinks with steamed milk, there are key differences:
Size
- Flat White: Smaller, typically 5–6 oz
- Latte: Larger, usually 8–12 oz
Milk Texture
- Flat White: Velvety, smooth micro-foam with minimal bubbles
- Latte: More foam and a lighter texture
Coffee to Milk Ratio
- Flat White: Higher ratio of coffee to milk, meaning a stronger coffee flavour
- Latte: More milk, softer coffee taste
Taste and Texture
- Flat White: Bold espresso presence with creamy texture
- Latte: Milder, milkier flavour
In short, the flat white is like a stronger, creamier cousin to the latte.
Flat White vs. Cappuccino
Another common comparison is between the flat white and the cappuccino. While they both contain espresso and milk, they differ significantly in texture and presentation:
- Cappuccino: Equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and foam
- Flat White: Espresso with steamed milk and thin micro-foam
The cappuccino’s foam layer is thicker and drier, while the flat white’s foam is thin, silky, and integrated into the milk, creating a harmonious blend.
How to Make a Flat White Coffee
Making a flat white is a blend of art and science. Here’s a simple step-by-step breakdown:
Pull the Espresso Shot
Start with one or two shots of quality espresso. Freshly ground beans are key to a rich and balanced flavour.
Steam the Milk
Use cold milk and steam it until it reaches about 55–65°C (130–150°F). The goal is to incorporate tiny air bubbles, creating a smooth and glossy micro-foam.
Pour with Skill
Pour the steamed milk over the espresso at a steady pace, allowing the foam to settle just on top. Expert baristas often create latte art during this step.
Serve in the Right Cup
A 5–6 oz ceramic cup helps maintain the flat white’s ideal temperature and proportions.
The Perfect Flat White Ratio
In general, a great flat white uses:
- 1–2 shots of espresso (18–36 ml)
- Steamed milk to fill the cup (up to 6 oz)
- Micro-foam integrated into the milk
This ratio ensures you get enough milk for texture without overpowering the espresso’s robust flavour.
Choosing the Best Beans for a Flat White
Because a flat white has a higher coffee concentration than a latte, the choice of beans matters. Here are some tips:
- Medium roast beans usually offer a balanced profile with notes of caramel and fruit, which complement the milk well.
- Single-origin beans enhance unique flavour profiles, great for those who want a more nuanced cup.
- Freshly roasted coffee will always beat pre-ground or stale beans.
Why Flat Whites Are So Popular
Balanced Flavour
The rich espresso and creamy milk balance allows coffee flavour to shine without being washed out.
Texture
The micro-foam creates a silky mouthfeel that feels luxurious but not heavy.
Customization
Baristas can adapt bean choice, milk type (including oat, almond, or soy), and espresso strength to match customer preferences.
Social Coffee Culture
Flat whites are often associated with the craft coffee movement, from meticulous brewing to latte art.
Milk Options for Flat Whites
While traditional flat whites use cow’s milk, many specialty coffee shops now offer plant-based alternatives:
- Oat milk: Creamy and well-suited for micro-foam
- Almond milk: Light and nutty, less creamy
- Soy milk: Good texture but can be less sweet
- Macadamia milk: Smooth with subtle flavours
Each milk choice affects the taste and texture, so feel free to experiment!
Tips for Brewing a Better Flat White at Home
Here are some ways to elevate your homemade flat whites:
- Invest in a good grinder: Freshly ground coffee makes a significant difference.
- Practice milk steaming: Achieving micro-foam takes a bit of technique.
- Keep your espresso machine clean: Old oils and residue affect flavour.
- Use a scale: Precision matters, especially when measuring espresso and milk.
FAQs About Flat White Coffee
What is the difference between a flat white and a latte?
A flat white is smaller with a higher coffee-to-milk ratio and smoother micro-foam than a latte, which has more milk and foam.
How big is a typical flat white?
Flat whites are usually served in 5–6 oz cups, smaller than lattes or cappuccinos.
Can you make a flat white with plant-based milk?
Yes, oat milk is especially popular for its creamy texture and ability to foam well.
Is a flat white stronger than a latte?
Generally yes, because it has less milk, the coffee flavour stands out more.
Where did the flat white originate?
The flat white originated in Australia and New Zealand and has since become a staple of specialty coffee culture around the world.