Flat white

Name: Flat white
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 1 serving
Ingredients: 1 - 2 shots espresso coffee; 120 - 180 ml milk (depending on your taste)

Expand your coffee horizons with our flat white recipe – a perfect mix of strong espresso and smooth steamed milk from the lively coffee cultures of Australia and New Zealand. This refined drink features a deep espresso foundation softened by just enough milk to enhance its flavour without hiding it. Perfect for those who love coffee that's both intense and smooth, the flat white is your path to a creamy delight.

Ingredients

Espresso coffee	1 - 2 shots
Milk (depending on your taste)	120 - 180 ml

Instructions

Brew 1-2 shots of espresso, depending on your preference. You may want to use freshly ground beans for the best flavor.
Heat the milk in a jug over medium heat, ensuring that it never reaches the boiling point as this can change its taste.
Froth the milk to create a silky microfoam without large bubbles.
When the milk is heated and foamed, pour it carefully over the espresso. To make art, pour the milk into the cup from a low height, preferably at an angle. Move the jug slowly and evenly while creating the pattern.

Enjoy!

Flat white FAQs

What is the technique for creating perfect microfoam in a flat white?

For the perfect microfoam in a flat white, steam your milk until it forms small, even bubbles, giving it a creamy texture. Using a milk frother or steam wand on an espresso machine, start just under the milk's surface to introduce air and create foam. Then, dip the wand or frother deeper into the milk, taking care not to let the milk get too hot and alter its taste. Your aim is to create a smooth layer of microfoam on top of the espresso, enriching the drink with a luxurious feel. The best microfoam is so fine it's almost invisible, giving the flat white its unique creamy texture. You can also use a French press, frothing the milk by plunging, then pouring it from a jug into your coffee.

What makes a flat white different from a latte or cappuccino?

A flat white shines with its strong coffee taste and special milk texture. It has a higher espresso to milk ratio than a latte, which brings out a more intense coffee flavour. The flat white's microfoam is smooth and velvety, unlike the cappuccino's thicker froth, and it merges perfectly with the espresso to create a creamy drink that still lets the espresso's bold taste stand out. Explore the differences in more detail on our flat white vs cappuccino and flat white vs latte pages.

Can I prepare a flat white without espresso?

Definitely! Simply replace the espresso with equal amounts of strongly brewed coffee. You can also use instant coffee but will need to increase the amount to achieve the depth of a double espresso.

Can you create latte art with a flat white?

Yes, you can! The key is to pour the milk very slowly, from a low height and at an angle. Start by tilting your cup and pouring the milk from a height of about 12-15 cm. As you fill the cup, lower the pitcher and begin your design. This method lets the milk mix smoothly with the espresso, readying it for your artwork. With practice, you can create simple patterns such as hearts or rosettas, making your flat white look as good as it tastes. Perfect your technique with these easy latte art tips and tricks.