A flat white is a smooth and velvety espresso-based coffee that originated in Australia and New Zealand. It is known for its strong coffee flavor, silky microfoam, and perfect balance of milk and espresso. If you love lattes but prefer a bolder coffee taste, the flat white is the perfect drink for you.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make a barista-quality flat white at home, including tips on milk steaming and coffee ratios.
1. What Is a Flat White?
A flat white is an espresso-based drink made with:
✔️ A double shot of espresso
✔️ Steamed milk with a fine, velvety microfoam
✔️ Less milk than a latte, giving it a stronger coffee flavor
Flat White vs. Latte vs. Cappuccino: What’s the Difference?
| Drink | Espresso | Steamed Milk | Milk Foam | Flavor Strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flat White | Double shot | Less milk | Thin layer | Stronger than a latte |
| Latte | Single or double | More milk | Light foam | Creamier and milkier |
| Cappuccino | Single shot | Equal parts milk & foam | Thick foam | Bold, airy texture |
🔹 A flat white has a silkier texture than a cappuccino and less milk than a latte, making the espresso flavor stand out.
2. Ingredients for the Perfect Flat White
✔️ 2 shots of espresso (60ml / 2 oz)
✔️ 120ml (4 oz) steamed milk (whole milk or oat milk works best)
💡 Pro Tip: Use whole milk for a creamy texture or oat milk (barista edition) for a dairy-free option.
3. Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Flat White
Step 1: Brew the Espresso
- Use an espresso machine to pull a double shot of espresso (about 60ml / 2 oz).
- If you don’t have an espresso machine, use a Moka pot or AeroPress to make strong coffee.
Step 2: Steam the Milk to Create Microfoam
1️⃣ Heat the milk to 55–65°C (130–150°F)—hot but not boiling.
2️⃣ Use a steam wand to create microfoam—this should be smooth and silky, with tiny bubbles.
3️⃣ If you don’t have a steam wand, use a milk frother or French press to create a fine foam.
💡 Pro Tip: Unlike cappuccino foam, flat white milk should be velvety, not thick and frothy.
Step 3: Pour the Milk Over the Espresso
1️⃣ Hold the cup at a slight angle and slowly pour the milk in a circular motion.
2️⃣ Finish with a thin layer of microfoam on top.
3️⃣ If you’re feeling creative, try making latte art with the milk foam!
4. Flat White Variations to Try
🔥 Iced Flat White – Use cold milk instead of steamed milk and serve over ice.
🔥 Vanilla Flat White – Add ½ teaspoon vanilla extract for extra sweetness.
🔥 Caramel Flat White – Drizzle with caramel syrup for a sweeter touch.
🔥 Cinnamon Flat White – Sprinkle cinnamon powder for a spicy kick.
5. Best Coffee Beans for a Flat White
✔️ Medium-dark roast espresso blends – Best for a strong, balanced flavor.
✔️ Single-origin beans from Colombia or Brazil – Naturally smooth and slightly sweet.
✔️ Dark roast beans – Create a bolder, richer flat white.
6. Tips for the Best Flat White Experience
✔️ Use fresh, high-quality espresso beans for the best taste.
✔️ Perfect the milk texture—it should be silky and creamy, not foamy.
✔️ Pour slowly to create a smooth blend between the coffee and milk.
✔️ Experiment with different milk types to find your favorite texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
A flat white is a smooth, strong, and creamy coffee that’s easy to make at home with the right technique. Whether you enjoy it hot or iced, classic or flavored, this café-style drink is a great choice for coffee lovers who appreciate a bold espresso flavor with a velvety milk texture. ☕✨