Flat White Coffee: A Smooth Espresso Classic

Flat white coffee has become one of the most popular café drinks around the world. 

Originating in Australia and New Zealand, this espresso-based beverage is known for its velvety microfoam and balanced flavor. 

Unlike a latte, which is creamier and milk-heavy, or a cappuccino, which has a dry, foamy top, the flat white offers a perfect middle ground. 

It is smooth, rich, and allows the bold character of espresso to shine through without being overpowered by milk.

The beauty of a flat white coffee lies in its simplicity. It only requires two elements… espresso and steamed milk… but the preparation demands attention to detail. 

The milk must be textured into silky microfoam, not stiff froth, and poured carefully to blend seamlessly with the coffee. 

The result is a luxurious drink with a creamy mouthfeel and strong coffee flavor.

Whether you are trying to recreate your favorite café order at home or want to explore new espresso drinks, mastering the flat white will elevate your coffee routine.

Ingredient List & Step-by-Step Flat White Coffee Recipe

Ingredients

• 18–20 g freshly ground espresso beans
  
• 100–120 ml whole milk (or preferred alternative)
  

Equipment

• Espresso machine
  
• Milk jug
  
• Thermometer (optional)
  

Method

1. Brew a double shot of espresso using freshly ground beans.
   
2. Steam the milk to 55–65°C, creating microfoam with tiny, velvety bubbles.
   
3. Swirl the jug to keep the milk smooth and glossy.
   
4. Slowly pour the steamed milk into the espresso, letting the foam integrate naturally.
   
5. Serve in a 150–180 ml cup for the authentic flat white experience.
   

What Makes a Flat White Coffee Special?

A flat white coffee is unique because it strikes a perfect balance between strong espresso and silky milk. 

The key difference from similar drinks lies in the texture of the milk. Instead of thick froth, the milk is steamed into microfoam… dense, smooth, and creamy. 

This gives the drink a luxurious mouthfeel without diluting the bold coffee flavor. 

Unlike a cappuccino or latte, the flat white focuses on harmony, where neither milk nor coffee dominates. 

It is the drink of choice for coffee lovers who want strength and softness in one cup.

Flat White Coffee Tips & Common Mistakes

• Choose fresh beans: A flat white highlights espresso flavor, so fresh coffee is essential.
  
• Do not overheat the milk: Too hot and it loses sweetness, too cool and it feels flat. Aim for 55–65°C.
  
• Perfect your pour: A steady, controlled pour ensures milk and espresso blend smoothly.
  
• Avoid stiff foam: Microfoam should be glossy and silky, not airy or bubbly.
  

The Flat White Coffee Wrap-Up

Flat white coffee is a modern classic that delivers a smooth, rich, and balanced coffee experience. 

With just espresso and carefully steamed milk, you can make café-quality flat whites at home.