A flat white is a smooth, creamy coffee drink that originated in Australia and New Zealand. It consists of a shot of rich espresso topped with velvety steamed milk. Unlike a cappuccino, which has a frothy, airy top layer, the flat white features a thinner layer of microform, offering a creamier, more balanced texture. It’s typically served in a smaller cup (around 6 to 8 Oz), making it a great choice for those who enjoy a strong coffee flavor with a silky-smooth finish.

The flat white is known for its perfect balance of espresso and milk, where the coffee flavor still shines through without being overpowered by froth. It’s a popular choice for coffee lovers who prefer a drink that’s not too strong but still offers the rich depth of espresso. Whether you’re at home or in a café, the flat white offers a refined yet approachable coffee experience that’s both comforting and satisfying.

Enjoy this simple yet elegant coffee beverage as a morning pick-me-up or a cozy afternoon treat!

Flat White- Parveen Coffee

Flat White – Parveen Coffee

Prep Time 7 minutes
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American
Calories: 77

Ingredients

  

  • 1 Shot Espresso or 1/2 cup of strong brewed coffee
  • ½ Cup Milk whole milk works best for a creamy texture

Equipment

  • Espresso Machine
  • Milk Frother or steam wand

Method

 

  1. Brew the Espresso:Brew a single shot of espresso using an espresso machine. If you don’t have one, you can substitute with very strong brewed coffee. The key is a concentrated coffee flavor, just like espresso.

    Steam the Milk:While the espresso is brewing, steam the milk. A flat white uses velvety steamed milk that is less frothy than a cappuccino but still creamy. Use a milk frother or steam wand to heat the milk to around 140-150°F (60-65°C). You want a smooth, silky texture without too much foam.

    Pour the Espresso and Milk:Pour the brewed espresso into a cup (typically a 6-8 oz cup). Then, gently pour the steamed milk into the espresso. Unlike a cappuccino, a flat white has a thin layer of microfoam, so aim for a smooth pour with minimal foam on top. The ratio is generally 1 part espresso to 2 parts milk.

    Optional:You can sweeten your flat white with sugar or flavored syrups if desired. A traditional flat white is typically served without sweeteners to let the coffee flavor shine through.

Notes

For the perfect flat white, use freshly brewed espresso and steam whole milk to around 140-150°F for a smooth, creamy texture with minimal foam. Aim for a 6-8 oz cup to maintain the balance of flavors, and avoid over-frothing the milk to ensure a velvety microfoam. While traditionally unsweetened, you can add sugar or syrups to taste. Practice frothing for the ideal silky consistency, and enjoy this rich, comforting coffee drink!