If you love smooth, velvety coffee with a strong espresso kick, the flat white is the perfect drink for you. Originating from Australia and New Zealand, this espresso-based coffee is known for its rich flavor and creamy microfoam. Unlike a latte or cappuccino, a flat white has a higher ratio of coffee to milk, making it a popular choice among coffee lovers.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through a barista-approved flat white recipe, step-by-step, so you can enjoy a café-quality coffee at home. Let’s get started!
What is a Flat White?
A flat white is an espresso-based drink made with steamed milk and microfoam, creating a smooth texture without excessive froth. It’s frequently compared to a latte or cappuccino, but there are notable differences:
| Drink | Espresso | Milk Texture | Foam Thickness | Cup Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flat White | Double Shot | Velvety Microfoam | 0.5cm | 5-6 oz |
| Latte | Single/Double | Creamy Milk | 1-2cm | 8-12 oz |
| Cappuccino | Single/Double | Frothy | 3-4cm | 6-8 oz |
Why Choose a Flat White?
- Stronger espresso flavor compared to a latte
- Silky, smooth texture (not too foamy)
- Perfectly balanced coffee-to-milk ratio
Ingredients Needed
To make a barista-quality flat white, you’ll need:
1. Coffee (Espresso)
- 18-20g of finely ground coffee beans (medium-dark roast recommended)
- Espresso machine or alternative brewing method (e.g., AeroPress with espresso attachment)
2. Milk
- Whole milk (ideal for superior texture and creaminess)
- Dairy-free options: Oat milk (best for frothing), almond milk, or soy milk.
3. Equipment
- Espresso machine
- Milk frother or steam wand
- Thermometer (optional but recommended)
- 5-6 oz ceramic cup
Step-by-Step Flat White Recipe
1: Pull the Perfect Espresso Shot
- Grind 18-20g of coffee beans to a fine consistency.
- Ensure the coffee grounds are tamped evenly in the portafilter.
- Brew a double espresso shot (~30ml per shot).
- Extraction time should be 25-30 seconds for optimal flavor.
2: Steam & Froth the Milk
- Pour 120ml of cold whole milk into a stainless-steel frothing pitcher.
- Insert the steam wand just below the milk surface and start steaming.
- Heat the milk to 55-65°C (130-150°F), creating microfoam (small, silky bubbles).
- Tap the pitcher on the counter to remove large air bubbles.
3: Pouring & Serving
- Swirl the milk gently to maintain texture.
- Slowly pour the milk over the espresso, starting from the center and moving outward.
- Try latte art by adjusting the pour speed and wrist motion.
☕ Enjoy your homemade flat white!
Pro Tips from Baristas
- Best Beans for Flat White: Choose medium-dark roast for a balanced espresso flavor.
- Milk Texture: Aim for velvety microfoam—too much foam will turn it into a cappuccino.
- Steaming Temperature: Never exceed 65°C (150°F) to avoid scalded milk.
- Pouring Technique: A slow, steady pour ensures a smooth blend with the espresso.
Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
- Overheating the Milk → Burns the milk and ruins the flavor.
- Too Much Foam → Turns into a cappuccino instead of a flat white.
- Weak Espresso → Use fresh, high-quality beans for a rich taste.
- Pouring Too Fast → Can cause the milk to separate from the espresso.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is it possible to make a flat white without an espresso machine?
Yes! Use a Moka pot, AeroPress, or French press for a strong coffee base.
2. What is the best type of milk for a flat white?
Whole milk creates the best texture, but oat milk is a great dairy-free alternative.
3. What distinguishes a Flat White from a Latte?
A flat white recipe contains less milk and has a bolder coffee taste compared to a latte.
Final Thoughts
Preparing a flat white at home is simpler than you might imagine! With the right technique and ingredients, you can enjoy café-quality coffee anytime. Try out this recipe and let us know how it turns out!
👉 What’s your favorite way to enjoy a flat white? Share in the comments!
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