In the world of specialty coffee, few drinks have gained as much popularity—and sparked as much curiosity—as the Flat White. Originating in Australia or New Zealand (depending on who you ask), this creamy espresso-based drink has become a staple in coffee shops from Sydney to London to New York.
A Flat White is all about balance and texture. It features a bold double shot of espresso, blended with silky microfoamed milk to create a drink that is stronger than a latte, smoother than a cappuccino, and utterly irresistible to coffee lovers who want bold flavor without too much froth or dilution.
In this in-depth guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know to make an authentic Flat White at home—from choosing the right beans to creating the perfect microfoam and pouring like a pro. Whether you’re a seasoned barista or a curious beginner, this article will give you the confidence to recreate café-style perfection in your own kitchen.
What Is a Flat White?
At its core, a Flat White is an espresso-based drink made with a double shot of espresso (about 2 oz or 60 ml) and 4–6 oz (120–180 ml) of steamed milk. What makes it unique is the milk texture—not foamy, not flat, but a fine, velvety microfoam that blends seamlessly with the espresso.
It’s typically served in a small cup (6–8 oz or 180–240 ml), making it stronger than a latte, which is usually served in a larger glass with more milk. The small size keeps the coffee flavor prominent and makes it the ideal beverage for those who appreciate a creamier but still robust coffee experience.
A Brief History: Where Did the Flat White Come From?
The origin of the Flat White is debated between Australia and New Zealand. Both countries lay claim to the invention during the 1980s, when coffee culture began shifting toward espresso drinks with more sophisticated milk textures.
- In Australia, it’s said the name came about when a barista offered a cappuccino with “flat” milk instead of frothy milk.
- In New Zealand, a similar story attributes it to a customer requesting a cappuccino with less foam—resulting in a “flat white.”
Wherever it started, the drink became wildly popular throughout the region and eventually spread globally. Starbucks even added it to their permanent menu in 2015, introducing the Flat White to a whole new audience.
What Makes a Flat White So Special?
Here’s what distinguishes a Flat White from other milk-based espresso drinks:
✔ A Bold Coffee Base
The Flat White uses a double shot of espresso, which gives it a robust, full-bodied flavor that shines through the milk.
✔ Fine, Silky Microfoam
Unlike a cappuccino with stiff foam or a latte with lots of steamed milk, a Flat White uses microfoam—milk that’s steamed just enough to incorporate tiny air bubbles. The result is a creamy, velvety texture that blends beautifully with the coffee.
✔ Balanced Size and Strength
The typical Flat White cup size is between 6–8 oz, allowing the espresso to remain the star of the show while still offering a smooth, milky mouthfeel.
✔ Ideal for Latte Art
The perfect milk texture makes the Flat White an excellent canvas for latte art, from hearts to rosettas and tulips.
Ingredients for the Perfect Flat White
Creating a great Flat White starts with the right ingredients. Keep it simple, but choose quality:
☕ Essential Ingredients:
- 2 shots of espresso (about 2 oz or 60 ml)
- 4–6 oz (120–180 ml) of whole milk
☕ Recommended Equipment:
- Espresso machine, Moka pot, or AeroPress
- Milk frother, steam wand, or stovetop and whisk
- Milk pitcher (for frothing and pouring)
- 6–8 oz ceramic cup or small glass
Tip: Whole milk is preferred for its creamy texture, but oat milk is a fantastic dairy-free alternative with great frothing ability.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make a Flat White at Home
Ready to create your own café-style Flat White? Follow these steps for creamy, smooth success.
Step 1: Pull a Double Shot of Espresso
- Use your espresso machine to pull 2 shots (about 60 ml) of espresso into your cup.
- If you don’t have an espresso machine:
- Use a Moka pot to brew strong coffee
- Or use an AeroPress with fine grounds and added pressure to mimic espresso strength
Pro Tip: Use medium or dark roast espresso beans for a rich, full-bodied flavor. Freshly ground beans always give better crema and aroma.
Step 2: Steam the Milk to Microfoam
This is the make-or-break step for a true Flat White.
- Pour 4–6 oz (120–180 ml) of cold milk into a steaming pitcher
- Use a steam wand to steam the milk to about 140–150°F (60–65°C)
- Keep the wand just below the surface to create microfoam—a texture that’s smooth and shiny, not airy or bubbly
- Swirl the milk in the pitcher to eliminate large bubbles and create an even consistency
If you don’t have a steam wand:
- Use a handheld milk frother and heat the milk gently on the stove
- Or shake milk in a jar and heat it in the microwave (less ideal, but workable)
Milk Texture Tip: The ideal microfoam should resemble wet paint—glossy, smooth, and pourable.
Step 3: Pour the Milk Over the Espresso
Now comes the artistic part.
- Hold your cup of espresso at a slight angle
- Begin pouring the milk slowly and evenly from a few inches above the cup
- As the milk level rises, lower the pitcher and pour more steadily to create a thin layer of microfoam
The goal is to blend the espresso and milk perfectly—no thick layers of foam, no bubbles, just a smooth, uniform consistency from top to bottom.
Optional: Try your hand at latte art once you’ve mastered the pour. Simple heart shapes are a great starting point.
Step 4: Serve and Sip Immediately
Flat White is best served fresh and hot—the microfoam texture begins to break down as it sits.
Pair your drink with:
- A biscotti or cookie
- A light breakfast
- Or simply enjoy it on its own as a morning or afternoon indulgence
Flat White vs. Other Espresso Drinks: What’s the Difference?
Confused between a Flat White, a latte, and a cappuccino? Here’s how they compare:
| Drink | Espresso | Milk Amount | Foam Texture | Cup Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flat White | Double | Less milk | Silky microfoam | 6–8 oz |
| Latte | Single or double | More milk | Light foam | 8–12 oz |
| Cappuccino | Single | Equal milk and foam | Thick foam | 6 oz |
| Cortado | Single | Equal coffee and milk | No foam | 4 oz |
Bottom Line: The Flat White offers the strongest espresso flavor of all the creamy drinks while still being incredibly smooth.
Flat White Variations You’ll Love
Want to put your own twist on this café favorite? Try one of these delicious variations:
✔ Iced Flat White
- Brew your espresso
- Let it cool slightly
- Pour over cold milk and ice
- Optional: Sweeten with honey or vanilla syrup
✔ Vanilla Flat White
- Add ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract to your espresso before pouring the milk
- Perfect for a light, aromatic sweetness
✔ Caramel Flat White
- Mix in 1 tbsp of caramel syrup with the espresso
- Ideal for a cozy, indulgent feel
✔ Mocha Flat White
- Stir 1 tsp cocoa powder or chocolate syrup into your espresso
- Use chocolate shavings as a garnish for a decadent twist
✔ Oat Milk Flat White
- Use oat milk for a dairy-free version with natural sweetness and a creamy texture
Tips for Flat White Success
Get the most out of every cup with these expert tips:
✅ Use Fresh, High-Quality Espresso
The flavor starts with your beans. Choose a high-quality roast, preferably whole beans ground just before brewing.
✅ Practice Your Milk Frothing
The key to a great Flat White is milk texture. Aim for fine bubbles and a pourable, glossy finish—not dry foam.
✅ Keep Your Ratios Tight
A Flat White is all about balance. Stick to a 2:1 ratio of milk to espresso for authentic strength.
✅ Serve in the Right Cup
Use a ceramic 6–8 oz cup. Too large, and the drink becomes diluted like a latte.
✅ Experiment with Beans
Try single-origin coffees to explore subtle flavor differences. You might discover floral, fruity, or nutty undertones.
When to Drink a Flat White
Flat White fits seamlessly into any coffee routine:
🌅 Morning Boost
The double espresso shot offers a powerful yet smooth way to wake up.
🕒 Afternoon Pick-Me-Up
Perfect for staying focused during work or study breaks.
🎨 Weekend Café Vibes
Recreate a cozy café experience at home—latte art and all.
☕ Date with a Book
Settle in with your favorite novel, a blanket, and a cup of comfort.
Final Thoughts: Why Flat White Belongs in Your Coffee Repertoire
The Flat White is more than just a trend—it’s a refined, well-balanced espresso drink that brings together bold flavor and creamy texture in perfect harmony. Whether you love strong coffee or are exploring beyond the basic latte, mastering the Flat White opens up a whole new world of café-quality beverages right in your kitchen.
Once you’ve got your technique down, experiment with flavors, milk alternatives, or even latte art to make the drink truly your own. The Flat White is simple, satisfying, and endlessly customizable.
So fire up that espresso machine (or Moka pot), steam your milk just right, and enjoy a drink that’s rich in culture and flavor—and now, part of your daily routine.