Flat White: The Perfect Balance of Coffee and Cream

 Smooth, Velvety, and Bold – The Coffee Drink You Didn’t Know You Needed

A flat white is a simple yet sophisticated coffee drink that has gained popularity for its rich, smooth flavor and perfect balance of espresso and steamed milk. Originating from Australia and New Zealand, this delightful coffee has quickly become a favorite worldwide for those who appreciate the delicate harmony between the boldness of espresso and the creaminess of milk.

What is a Flat White?

A flat white is made with a shot (or more) of espresso and steamed milk, but what sets it apart from a latte is the texture of the milk. The milk in a flat white is steamed to create a creamy microfoam—smooth and velvety, but not as frothy or thick as the foam in a latte. The result is a coffee that’s rich and creamy but with a stronger espresso flavor that’s perfectly complemented by the milk’s smoothness.

How to Make the Perfect Flat White

Making a flat white is easier than it seems, and with the right technique, you can recreate this coffee shop classic in the comfort of your own home.

Ingredients:

• 1 shot of espresso (or more, depending on your preference)

• 1/2 cup of milk (whole milk for creaminess, or any plant-based milk)

Instructions:

1. Brew the Espresso – Brew a strong shot of espresso using an espresso machine or stovetop Moka pot.

2. Steam the Milk – Heat the milk until it’s steamy but not boiling, creating a smooth, velvety texture. A milk steamer is ideal, but you can also use a frothing wand or a French press to achieve microfoam.

3. Combine Espresso and Milk – Pour the steamed milk into the espresso, holding back the foam with a spoon. Then, gently add the foam on top, making sure the milk is incorporated evenly.

4. Serve & Enjoy – You should have a creamy, smooth coffee with a layer of microfoam on top.

Why You’ll Love a Flat White

✔️ Perfect Coffee-to-Milk Ratio – The flat white provides a great balance of rich coffee flavor and creamy texture without being too heavy.
✔️ Smoother than a Latte – With less foam, the flat white offers a smoother drinking experience that lets the espresso shine.
✔️ Ideal for Espresso Lovers – If you love coffee but find lattes too milky or weak, the flat white is a great middle ground.
✔️ Great for Customizing – Add a dash of flavored syrup, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a shot of vanilla to enhance your flat white experience.

Flat White vs. Latte: What’s the Difference?

   

Drink	Ingredients	Texture & Foam
Flat White	Espresso + Steamed Milk	Silky smooth, velvety microfoam
Latte	Espresso + Steamed Milk	Frothy, thick foam on top

Final Thoughts

The flat white is a beautifully balanced coffee drink that brings out the best of both the espresso and the milk. If you love a smooth, creamy coffee but still want to experience the boldness of espresso, the flat white is your perfect match. It’s an ideal coffee to enjoy any time of day, whether you're looking for a morning pick-me-up or an afternoon treat.

How Do You Enjoy Your Flat White?

Let us know in the comments how you make your flat white or if you prefer any variations! ☕💫