What is a Flat White Coffee, and How to Make One?
Craving a coffee that's not too strong, not too weak, and delivers a smooth, creamy texture? Look no further than the flat white, the Goldilocks of espresso drinks. This delightful beverage has taken the world by storm, capturing the hearts (and taste buds) of coffee enthusiasts everywhere.
But what exactly is a flat white, and how do you make one at home? Let's dive in and explore this delicious coffee creation, answering all your burning questions:
What is a Flat White?
A flat white is an espresso-based drink known for its perfect balance of espresso and steamed milk. Unlike its frothy cousin, the cappuccino, a flat white features microfoam, a silky smooth texture created by tiny, dense bubbles in the milk. This results in a richer, creamier mouthfeel compared to lattes, while maintaining a stronger espresso presence than macchiatos.
The History of the Flat White
The exact origin of the flat white is a bit of a mystery, shrouded in a friendly rivalry between Australia and New Zealand. Some claim it originated in Wellington, New Zealand, in the 1980s as a "failed cappuccino" with less foam. Others point to Sydney, Australia, where coffee shops like Moors Espresso Bar began adding "flat white" to their menus around the same time. Regardless of its birthplace, the flat white has become a global phenomenon, enjoyed for its perfect balance of espresso and creamy texture.
How Does a Flat White Differ from Other Coffees?
The magic of the flat white lies in its harmonious balance of espresso and milk, creating a unique taste and texture compared to other popular coffee drinks:
Cappuccino: While both utilise espresso and steamed milk, cappuccinos feature a thicker layer of milk foam, resulting in a larger and lighter drink (around 5-6 oz). Flat whites have a much thinner layer of microfoam, creating a denser and more espresso-forward experience.
Macchiato: A macchiato is a bolder espresso shot marked with just a dollop of creamy milk foam (around 2-3 oz) for a more concentrated, espresso-dominant taste. Flat whites offer a more balanced espresso-to-milk ratio, providing a smoother and creamier experience.
Latte: Lattes have a higher milk-to-espresso ratio (usually 1:3 or 1:4) than flat whites, making them larger and milder (typically 4-6 oz). Flat whites have a stronger coffee presence due to the lower milk content and microfoam texture.
Cortado: This Spanish delight is perhaps the closest relative to the flat white. Both use espresso and steamed milk in similar quantities (4-6 oz) but with a slight textural difference. Cortados have a 1:1 espresso-to-milk ratio, while flat whites have a slightly higher milk content (around 2:3) and a more microfoam texture, creating a smoother and slightly lighter drink.
What Milk is Best for a Flat White?
The "best" milk for a flat white depends on your taste preference and dietary needs. Here's a breakdown of popular options:
Whole Milk: The classic choice for a richer and creamier flat white. Whole milk's higher fat content helps create a silky texture and complements the coffee's sweetness.
Skim Milk: A lighter option with less fat content. This can result in a slightly thinner texture, but still offers a good balance with the espresso.
Plant-Based Milk: Opt for barista-blend plant milk. Oat milk is a popular alternative for its creamy texture and subtle sweetness that pairs well with espresso.
How to Make a Flat White: Step by Step Guide
Equipment:
Espresso machine
Milk frother or steamer (with thermometer, optional)
Small pitcher
Heat-resistant glass (around 6 oz)
Ingredients:
1-2 shots of espresso (depending on desired strength)
4-5 oz of your chosen milk (whole, skim, or plant-based)
Instructions:
Pull your espresso: Extract your desired amount of espresso directly into your preheated glass, usually a double shot.
Steam the milk: Heat your milk to around 140-150°F (60-65°C). Use the steam wand or frother to create microfoam, aiming for a smooth, silky consistency with tiny bubbles.
Pour the milk: Gently pour the steamed milk over the espresso, holding back the microfoam with a spoon. Start with a slow pour to create a thin layer of microfoam on top.
Tips for Making a Perfect Flat White:
Freshly ground coffee: Use high-quality, freshly ground beans for a flavorful espresso base.
Milk temperature: Aim for the sweet spot between 140-150°F (60-65°C) to avoid scalding the milk and compromising its sweetness.
Microfoam: Practice steaming to achieve that silky, smooth texture for the perfect flat white experience.
Experiment with flavors: Once you've mastered the basic recipe, explore flavored syrups, honey, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a personalised touch.
Latte Art: When pouring the milk, tilt the cup slightly to create latte art.
How Many Calories are in a Flat White?
The calorie content of your flat white can vary depending on several factors, including milk type and sweeteners and syrups.
As a general estimate, a flat white made with whole milk and no added sugar can range from 140 to 200 calories. Opting for skim milk or plant-based alternatives can further reduce the calorie count.
Read ‘How Many Calories are in Coffee: The Ultimate Guide’ to find out more about calories in coffee.
So, the next time you're looking for a smooth, balanced coffee experience, give the flat white a try! With a little practice and these helpful tips, you'll be brewing barista-worthy flat whites in no time, and enjoying the perfect cup of coffee any time of day.
