What is a Flat White and How to Make Flat White Coffee?

We have all been there, standing at the coffee counter, staring at the menu, and thinking, What is a Flat White supposed to be? It sounds fancy, but it is actually one of the simplest and most loved Coffees around. Strong, smooth, and just the right amount of creamy, it hits differently compared to your usual latte or cappuccino.

If you have ever found yourself wondering What is a Flat White and why everyone keeps ordering it, you are not alone. In this blog, we will walk you through everything you need to know, from what makes it special to how you can enjoy that café-style magic at home.

Table of Contents

1) What is a Flat White Coffee?

2) Origin of Flat White

3) How to Make a Flat White?

4) How Does a Flat White Coffee Taste?

5) Characteristics of Flat White

6) Nutritional Value of Flat White

7) Different Understandings of the Drink

8) Difference between Cappuccino, Latte and Flat White

9) Why are Flat Whites so Expensive?

10) Is Flat White the Strongest Coffee?

11) Conclusion

What is a Flat White Coffee?

You may have heard of Cappuccino, Latte, Espresso and Frappuccino, as these are some of the most popular and classic drinks. But have you ever come across Flat White? Flat White is relatively new to our ears. It is a new addition to the world of Coffee, often confused with Latte and Cappuccino. So, what is Flat White? Let's read about it in detail below.  

Flat White is an espresso-based drink made by combining micro-foamed steamed milk with a single or double shot of espresso. When you pour micro-foamed milk over a single or double shot of espresso, this steamed milk infuses with air to create tiny bubbles along with a smooth and silky texture, and you get an aromatic and velvety Flat White.   

To simplify, a Flat White is a creamier and more tender version of the Latte that is relatively small with a higher ratio of espresso than milk.
 

 

Origin of Flat White

Flat White's origin has always been debated due to the tussle between Australia and New Zealand to mark the claims of Flat White. Despite its conflicting origins, it has become an important chapter in the history of coffee, collecting equal love from all parts of the world.  

Flat White was introduced in the 1980s when Coffee enthusiasts wanted to shift from instant Coffee mixes to espresso-based drinks, but they wanted something similar rather than a basic Cappuccino. Thus, the professionals started putting large mountains of milk foam on top of it and called it ‘Flat.’

When Starbucks started serving Flat White as a substitute for Cappuccino and Latte, it became a popular beverage in the Western world.However, even today, a Flat White is prevalent as a substitute for Cappuccino and Latte due to the different techniques used by Baristas to prepare it.

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How to Make a Flat White? 

After you have a brief view of the Flat White, it’s time to learn how to make it. Although like the Latte, Flat White requires the same ingredients, the quantities differ.  

Without further delay let’s examine how Flat White is made:  

Ingredients Required  

You will be required to have the following ingredients to make Flat White: 

1) 19g Finely Ground Coffee  

2) Milk (120ml)  

3) 1 Shot Espresso 

Equipment  

The types of equipment you will need to make a Flat White is as follows:  

1) Espresso Machine  

2) Coffee Puck  

3) Tamper  

4) Portafilter  

5) Small Milk Jug  

6) Mug of 230ml (Preferable)  

Step-by-step Method to Make a Flat White Coffee 

You no longer need to wait at cafes and shops to get a steaming mug of Flat White; since making a Flat White is quite simple, you can make this Coffee at home for you and your loved ones. You just need to follow some simple steps. Let's have a look at what these steps are:  

Step 1 

Fill a portafilter with finely ground 19g of Coffee  

Step 2  

Use a tamper to evenly pressure the grounds, ensuring that the Coffee puck is even and Flat  

Step 3  

Now, put the portafilter into the espresso machine 

Step 4  

The next step is to place your mug under the machine and make a shot of espresso so it pours directly into the mug  

Step 5 

Now, fill a jug with milk to the base of the spurt. Then, start building a wand in the centre of the milk, only half a cm below the surface. Also, tilt the jug while pouring in the milk 

Step 6  

Turn on the steam and lower the milk jug until you hear a whistling sound 

Step 7 

Once the milk level rises, move the steam wand under the surface to avoid creating more foam. When the milk is hot to the touch, turn the steam off  

Step 8 

Further, give your milk jug a hard pat on the surface so that it bursts large air bubbles (if any). Circulate the milk around until it becomes a bit shiny and hold your cup at an angle, facing towards the milk jug and slowly pour it creating a thin line of milk at the top of the Coffee  

Step 9 

Lastly, when your cup is ⅔ full, bring the milk jug tip closer to the surface of the Coffee and pour faster, pointing to the centre 

Your Flat White will be prepared, and you can serve it hot with a brownie or a dessert for your friends and family.  

Many Baristas customise this beverage according to their requirements. Sometimes Baristas serve the milk in different ways, such as thick, frothy, foamy, piping hot or lukewarm. While others may like to keep it traditional. 

How Does a Flat White Coffee Taste? 

A Flat White offers a rich, velvety coffee experience that instantly wins over those who love a strong yet smooth brew. The first sip hits you with the bold, slightly sweet flavour of espresso, closely followed by the creamy softness of steamed milk. 

It is less frothy than a cappuccino and stronger than a latte, giving it a beautiful balance that is both indulgent and invigorating. The milk is perfectly textured to create a silky micro foam, blending seamlessly with the espresso without overpowering it.  

This careful harmony delivers a full-bodied taste with a slightly caramel-like finish, making every sip feel luxurious without being heavy. If you enjoy coffee with character but still want that gentle, creamy touch, a Flat White is the perfect choice. 

Characteristics of Flat White 

The Flat White has a few defining traits that set it apart from other popular coffee drinks: 

1) Velvety Micro Foam Texture 

The milk is steamed to create a fine, glossy micro foam instead of thick foam or froth. This results in a smooth, silky mouthfeel without any large bubbles or stiffness. 

2) Bold Coffee Flavour 

Thanks to a higher coffee-to-milk ratio, the espresso remains the star of the drink, offering a stronger and more pronounced taste than lattes or cappuccinos. 

3) Smaller Serving Size 

Flat Whites are typically served in smaller cups, usually between five and six ounces. This smaller size keeps the drink concentrated and full of flavour. 

4) Perfectly Balanced Taste 

The Flat White strikes a careful balance between strength and creaminess. It is neither too milky nor too bitter, delivering a rich and satisfying coffee experience.  

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Nutritional Value of Flat White 

While the Flat White is a delicious treat, it is good to be aware of its nutritional content, especially if you are mindful of your daily intake. A standard Flat White made with whole milk contains roughly 120 to 170 calories, depending on the size and the amount of milk used.  

It also delivers around six grams of protein, thanks to the milk, along with a modest dose of calcium which supports healthy bones. The fat content can range between five to nine grams, with saturated fat making up a good portion if full-cream milk is used.  

Choosing skimmed or plant-based milk alternatives can significantly lower the calorie and fat levels without compromising the taste too much. Of course, the espresso itself is virtually calorie-free but packs a punch in the caffeine department, giving you that much-needed boost. Overall, a Flat White can be a balanced option, providing energy and nutrients when enjoyed in moderation. 

Extra Tips to Make Your Flat White Special  

Here are some extra tips to make your Flat White extra special and rich in taste:   

1) It is recommended to use full-fat whole milk. 

2) While pouring milk into the jug, tilt it slightly. It will produce a swirl effect while creating a thin layer of micro foam. 

3) As you combine espresso with milk, try to create an even colour. 

4) The milk foam should gush out and sit on top of the Flat White, making a White blob. Keep pouring the milk into the blob until your cup is filled. 

5) If you want to showcase creativity and turn the blob into a heart, just as the cup is almost full, pull the milk jug up to its earlier pouring position. Now, pull round the blob. 

Different Understandings of the Drink

Flat White coffee making has multiple factors that take place. How your Flat White turns out heavily depends on where you get your coffee and the barista. Baristas aren't just adding milk; they prepare the milk in different ways; thick, frothy, foamy, piping hot, or lukewarm. Some people prefer to keep their traditional ratio of milk to coffee as the original measure, and others might tinker with that proportion. 

Difference Between Cappuccino, Latte and Flat White 

Many people get confused between the three drinks (Cappuccino, Latte and Flat White) as they are made using the same techniques. However, they cannot be substituted for each other. For those looking to Become a Barista, understanding these differences is crucial. Then, how are they different?  What special ingredient makes these three beverages differ from each other? Let's have a look at the differences in detail: 

Thus, while espresso and milk remain constant in all of the Coffees mentioned above, the quantity and technique make them differ.

Why are Flat Whites So Expensive? 

Flat Whites are often pricier because they use a double shot of high-quality espresso and finely textured milk, both requiring extra skill and care. The smaller size also means you are paying for a stronger, more carefully crafted coffee experience, not just volume. 

Is Flat White the Strongest Coffee? 

A Flat White is strong in flavour because of its high coffee-to-milk ratio and double shot of espresso. However, in terms of pure caffeine content, other drinks like a long black or cold brew can be stronger. Flat Whites offer boldness without overwhelming you. 

Conclusion  

Being a rich, smooth coffee with velvety milk and minimal foam, the Flat White has earned its place as a café favourite. Understanding What is a Flat White helps you appreciate its bold yet balanced flavour. With the right technique, you can enjoy this barista-style brew anytime at home. 

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