What Is a Flat White?: Creamy Coffee Classic
What Is a Flat White? A Creamy Coffee Classic Explained
The flat white has grown from Aussie café fame to a worldwide favorite. But what exactly is a flat white, and how does it differ from a latte or cappuccino? In this guide, we’ll break down its origin, ingredients, preparation method, and why it’s become a go-to for coffee lovers who want full espresso flavor with a velvety finish.
Flat White Basics
A flat white is an espresso based drink made with a double shot of espresso and steamed milk with microfoam; a creamy, fine-textured milk that’s less frothy than cappuccino foam but richer than what’s used in a typical latte (Illy, 2022).
Quick Snapshot:
| Drink | Espresso | Milk Texture | Milk-to-Coffee Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flat White | Double | Silky microfoam | 1:3 |
| Latte | Single | Lightly steamed | 1:5 or more |
| Cappuccino | Single | Thick foam | 1:1:1 |
Flat whites are typically served in 5–6 oz cups, smaller than a latte but stronger in flavor.
Origin of the Flat White
The flat white was born in either Australia or New Zealand in the 1980s, depending on which country you ask. What both agree on: it was a response to the overly frothy cappuccinos common at the time (Morris, 2010).
The term “flat” refers to the thin, flat layer of microfoam on top, which contrasts with the stiff peaks of a cappuccino.
How to Make a Flat White at Home
You don’t need to be a barista to make a proper flat white:
What you’ll need:
- Espresso machine or moka pot
- Milk frother or steam wand
- Fresh espresso beans (try our Zombie Espresso Antidote)
Steps:
- Pull a double shot of espresso into a 5–6 oz cup.
- Steam milk until velvety microfoam forms. Avoid large bubbles.
- Slowly pour milk into espresso, letting the foam blend gently.
- Optional: Top with latte art if you’re feeling fancy.
Pro Tip: The milk temperature should be around 140–150°F (60–65°C) to preserve sweetness and texture (Barista Institute, 2021).
Best Beans for Flat White Coffee
Because flat whites use less milk than lattes, the espresso flavor shines through more. You’ll want to use beans with depth and body:
| Roast Type | Flavor Notes | Ideal For Flat White? |
| Light Roast | Fruity, acidic | ❌ Too sharp |
| Medium Roast | Balanced, nutty, sweet | ✅ Best match |
| Dark Roast | Bold, bitter, smoky | ✅ Strong flavor |
Our picks:
Flat White vs Latte vs Cappuccino
Flat whites are often confused with lattes and cappuccinos, but here’s the core difference:
- Flat White: Balanced, strong espresso with velvety milk
- Latte: Milkier and more diluted
- Cappuccino: Frothy, airy, and sometimes topped with cocoa
Flat whites are ideal if you want a smoother drink with full coffee flavor that’s less milky than a latte but less foamy than a cappuccino.
Overclock Coffee Tip
A clean machine matters! Be sure to regularly use a Keurig descaling solution or your espresso machine’s equivalent. Residue and scale can alter your coffee’s flavor and brewing temperature (Deng, Chang, & Yao, 2019).
Final Thoughts
Flat whites are a modern classic; a drink that balances strength and smoothness. Whether you're at a café or experimenting at home, understanding the components helps you brew it right. Choose bold beans, keep your machine clean, and enjoy the best balance of espresso and milk in one velvety cup.
References
Barista Institute. (2021). How to steam milk for coffee drinks. https://www.baristainstitute.com/blog/barista-institute/2021/how-steam-milk-coffee-drinks
Deng, Y., Chang, S. K., & Yao, L. (2019). Effect of acidic cleaning agents on beverage machines and consumer health. Journal of Food Safety and Hygiene, 5(3), 85–91. https://jfs-hygiene.com/article_88415.html
Illy. (2022). What is a Flat White?. https://www.illy.com/en-us/company/news-and-events/what-is-a-flat-white
Morris, B. (2010). Coffee Lovers: A History of the Flat White. https://www.smh.com.au/lifestyle/coffee-lovers-a-history-of-the-flat-white-20101011-16gqe.html