What is a Flat White?
A flat white is a popular espresso-based drink that originated in Australia and New Zealand. It’s known for its strong espresso flavor and velvety microfoam, making it smoother than a cappuccino but bolder than a latte.
The key to a perfect flat white is the balance between espresso and silky milk, without excessive foam.
Flat White vs. Latte vs. Cappuccino: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Flat White | Latte | Cappuccino |
|---|---|---|---|
| Espresso | 2 shots (strong) | 1–2 shots | 1–2 shots |
| Milk Texture | Smooth, silky microfoam | Creamy, more milk | Thick, airy foam |
| Foam Layer | Thin (½ cm) | Moderate (1 cm) | Thick (2+ cm) |
| Serving Size | 5–6 oz | 8–12 oz | 6 oz |
A flat white is ideal for those who love strong coffee with a creamy texture, but without the excessive foam of a cappuccino.
1. What You Need to Make a Flat White
To make a barista-style flat white, you’ll need:
Ingredients:
✔ Espresso (double shot – 2 oz / 60 ml)
✔ Milk (Whole milk is best, but oat milk also works well)
Equipment:
☕ Espresso Machine – Ideal for making a strong espresso shot.
☕ Moka Pot or Aeropress – Good alternatives if you don’t have an espresso machine.
☕ Milk Frother or Steam Wand – For creating silky, velvety microfoam.
2. Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Flat White
Step 1: Brew a Double Shot of Espresso
1️⃣ Use fresh, high-quality coffee beans for the best flavor.
2️⃣ Grind your coffee to a fine consistency (like table salt).
3️⃣ Use 18–20g of coffee for a double shot.
4️⃣ Brew your espresso shot—it should take 25–30 seconds.
Step 2: Steam the Milk for a Velvety Texture
The secret to a great flat white is microfoam, which is smoother and silkier than regular milk foam.
1️⃣ Fill a metal pitcher with cold milk (⅓ full).
2️⃣ Position the steam wand just below the surface of the milk and turn on the steam.
3️⃣ Let the milk stretch slightly for 3–5 seconds (this creates a small amount of foam).
4️⃣ Submerge the wand deeper and continue steaming until the milk reaches 150°F (65°C).
5️⃣ Tap the milk pitcher on the counter to remove any bubbles and create a smooth, glossy texture.
💡 Pro Tip: Aim for a shiny, paint-like texture with tiny bubbles.
Step 3: Pour the Milk into the Espresso
1️⃣ Hold your cup at a slight angle and start pouring the milk slowly into the espresso.
2️⃣ Pour in a steady, controlled motion to blend the coffee and milk smoothly.
3️⃣ As you finish, move the pitcher closer to the surface to create a thin, silky foam layer on top.
✅ Result: A perfectly blended espresso-milk drink with a thin layer of microfoam (not thick like a cappuccino).
3. How to Make a Flat White Without an Espresso Machine
If you don’t have an espresso machine, you can still make a great flat white at home!
Option 1: Using a Moka Pot (Stovetop Espresso Maker)
✔ Fill the bottom chamber with water.
✔ Add finely ground coffee to the filter basket.
✔ Assemble and heat until coffee brews into the top chamber.
Option 2: Using an Aeropress
✔ Use 2 tablespoons of coffee per 3 oz of water.
✔ Steep for 30 seconds, then press slowly.
How to Froth Milk Without a Steam Wand
✔ Milk Frother: Heat milk, then use a frother to create microfoam.
✔ French Press: Add warm milk, pump the plunger up and down until frothy.
✔ Jar Method: Shake warm milk in a jar, then tap to remove large bubbles.
4. Tips for the Perfect Flat White
💡 Use Whole Milk: It creates the best microfoam due to its fat content.
💡 Chill Your Milk Before Frothing: Cold milk froths better.
💡 Don’t Over-Foam: Flat whites should have a thin microfoam, not thick froth.
💡 Use Fresh Coffee Beans: The fresher the beans, the better the espresso taste.
5. Flat White Variations to Try
🍫 Mocha Flat White
✔ Add 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder to the espresso before adding milk.
✔ Top with chocolate shavings.
🌰 Nutty Flat White
✔ Use almond or macadamia milk for a nutty twist.
✔ Drizzle with hazelnut syrup.
🍯 Honey Cinnamon Flat White
✔ Stir in 1 teaspoon of honey with the espresso.
✔ Sprinkle cinnamon on top for extra warmth.
6. Serving & Enjoying Your Flat White
- Serve in a 5–6 oz cup (not too large, or the balance will be off).
- Pair with a croissant, biscotti, or banana bread for a café-style experience.
- Enjoy it fresh, as the texture changes if left too long.
Final Thoughts: Make Café-Quality Flat Whites at Home
A flat white is all about balance—a strong espresso base with smooth, silky milk and a thin layer of microfoam. By following these steps, you can make a barista-quality flat white at home—even without an espresso machine!
Will you try making a flat white? Let me know how it turns out! ☕😊