For many coffee lovers, nothing quite compares to the satisfying balance of strength and creaminess that comes in a cup of Flat White. Originating in Australia and New Zealand, the Flat White has grown into a global favorite thanks to its bold espresso flavor paired with smooth, velvety steamed milk. It’s the go-to drink for those who want more intensity than a latte but less froth than a cappuccino.
What makes the Flat White unique is its use of microfoam—steamed milk with an ultra-fine, glossy texture that blends seamlessly into espresso, creating a silky, uniform consistency in every sip. It’s strong, elegant, and simple—but getting it just right at home requires a bit of technique.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know to make an authentic Flat White in your own kitchen—from tools and step-by-step methods to expert tips and creative variations.
What Is a Flat White?
A Flat White is a coffee drink made with a double shot of espresso and steamed milk topped with a thin layer of microfoam. Typically served in a 6 to 8 oz cup, it offers a stronger coffee-to-milk ratio than a latte and avoids the stiff foam of a cappuccino.
This drink is ideal for those who appreciate the boldness of espresso but want it mellowed with creamy milk—without losing the core character of the coffee itself.
☕ A well-made Flat White should have no thick foam cap or excessive milk. It’s all about harmony between strength and silkiness.
Why Choose a Flat White?
There are many reasons why Flat White has become a favorite among baristas and coffee drinkers alike:
- ✅ Balanced yet bold – It offers a strong espresso base with a smoother finish.
- ✅ Velvety texture – Microfoam adds silkiness without overwhelming the coffee.
- ✅ Perfect size – Smaller than a latte, it packs flavor without excessive volume.
- ✅ Great canvas for latte art – The smooth surface is ideal for simple designs.
Flat White vs. Other Espresso-Based Drinks
Let’s break down how a Flat White compares to similar milk-based coffee drinks:
Flat White vs. Latte
- Latte: Uses more milk and a larger cup (typically 10–12 oz). It has a lighter flavor and more foam.
- Flat White: Served in a smaller cup (6–8 oz) with less milk and thinner foam, resulting in a stronger, richer drink.
Flat White vs. Cappuccino
- Cappuccino: Has equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and frothy foam. Airy and layered.
- Flat White: Features minimal foam and a smooth, integrated texture.
Flat White vs. Cortado
- Cortado: A 1:1 ratio of espresso and steamed milk, usually in a 4 oz cup. Strong and short.
- Flat White: Slightly more milk and volume, with microfoam for a silkier texture.
Ingredients & Equipment for a Flat White
🛒 Ingredients:
- 2 shots of freshly brewed espresso (about 60 ml)
- 4–6 oz of whole milk (or your preferred alternative)
Whole milk provides the best texture for microfoam, but oat milk or barista-blend almond milk are excellent dairy-free options.
🧰 Equipment:
- Espresso machine, Moka pot, or AeroPress
- Milk steamer, steam wand, or frother capable of creating microfoam
- 6 to 8 oz cup or mug
- Thermometer (optional but helpful for precision)
Step-by-Step: How to Make a Flat White at Home
Here’s how to create a perfectly balanced Flat White, step by step:
☕ Step 1: Brew a Double Espresso Shot
A Flat White starts with a strong foundation.
- Use 18–20 grams of ground coffee for a double shot.
- Brew using an espresso machine or Moka pot for a bold, concentrated base.
- AeroPress users can mimic espresso by using a fine grind, short brew time, and extra pressure.
Medium-dark roast beans work best—they deliver bold flavor without being overly bitter.
🥛 Step 2: Steam the Milk to Create Microfoam
Microfoam is key to achieving the texture that defines a Flat White.
- Pour 4–6 oz of cold milk into your steaming pitcher.
- Steam the milk until it reaches 140–150°F (60–65°C)—hot, but not boiling.
- Introduce a small amount of air at the start to create microfoam, then submerge the wand to spin the milk and build texture.
- Once done, swirl and tap the pitcher to remove any large bubbles.
Proper microfoam should look like wet paint—glossy, fine, and smooth.
🫗 Step 3: Combine Espresso and Milk
Time to pour!
- Start with your freshly brewed espresso in the cup.
- Hold the cup at a slight angle and pour the milk slowly into the center.
- As the cup fills, move the pitcher closer and pour more steadily to blend.
- Finish with a subtle art swirl or a simple heart if you’re feeling fancy.
The goal is a creamy, integrated blend—not separate layers or frothy foam.
🧡 Step 4: Serve and Sip
A Flat White is best enjoyed fresh, while the texture is perfect and the crema still lingers.
- Serve immediately.
- Pair with a biscotti, croissant, or enjoy it solo for a bold yet comforting coffee break.
Flat Whites are especially enjoyable mid-morning or early afternoon for a focused caffeine boost.
Flat White Variations You Can Try
Feeling creative? Here are some delicious twists on the classic:
🧊 Iced Flat White
- Brew a double espresso and let it cool slightly.
- Pour over ice and top with cold microfoamed milk.
- Stir gently for a refreshing summer coffee.
🍯 Vanilla Flat White
- Add ½ tsp of vanilla extract to your espresso.
- Complements the richness of the coffee with a light floral sweetness.
🍫 Mocha Flat White
- Mix 1 tsp of cocoa powder or chocolate syrup into your espresso.
- A chocolatey kick for those who love mochas but want something stronger.
🍮 Caramel Flat White
- Add a caramel drizzle or syrup to the cup before pouring the milk.
- Rich and sweet—perfect as a dessert coffee.
🌱 Oat Milk Flat White
- Use barista-blend oat milk for a dairy-free version.
- Adds a subtle nutty sweetness and steams beautifully.
Expert Tips for the Best Flat White at Home
- ✅ Use fresh beans – Coffee flavor fades quickly after grinding. Use freshly ground beans for the best result.
- ✅ Master microfoam – This is what sets a Flat White apart. Watch tutorials, practice your steam technique.
- ✅ Keep the ratio tight – Don’t drown your espresso. Keep the milk between 4–6 oz for bold flavor.
- ✅ Use a thermometer – Milk that’s too hot will scald and ruin the texture.
- ✅ Experiment with origin – Different beans = different flavors. Try Ethiopian for floral, Colombian for chocolatey, or Brazilian for nutty.
When to Drink a Flat White
You can enjoy a Flat White any time of day, but here are a few ideal moments:
- ☀️ Morning fuel – Start your day with a bold, energizing cup.
- 💻 Mid-day productivity – Keep your focus with a strong, smooth drink.
- 🧘 Slow weekend mornings – Sip and savor with a book or a view.
- 🎉 Café-style indulgence at home – You don’t need to go out for that barista feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make a Flat White without an espresso machine?
Yes! Use a Moka pot or AeroPress to brew strong coffee. The key is concentration—your coffee should be bold enough to stand up to milk.
Is a Flat White stronger than a latte?
Yes. With less milk and a double espresso, a Flat White delivers a stronger coffee flavor than a latte.
What kind of milk works best?
Whole milk is ideal for texture and richness. Oat milk is the best dairy-free option for steaming.
Can I sweeten a Flat White?
Traditionally, Flat Whites are unsweetened to let the espresso shine. But if you prefer, add a little simple syrup, honey, or vanilla.
Final Thoughts: Why Every Coffee Lover Should Try a Flat White
The Flat White is the perfect expression of balance in coffee—it delivers bold espresso flavor wrapped in silky, comforting microfoam. It’s the drink of choice for those who love strength, sophistication, and subtlety in every sip.
Whether you’re a home barista looking to expand your skills or just want to enjoy a better cup of coffee without leaving the house, learning to master the Flat White is a skill worth adding to your daily ritual.
Give the classic version a try, then explore variations to make it your own. However you craft it, one thing is certain: the Flat White will quickly earn a permanent place in your coffee routine.