Flat white – what kind of coffee is this? This question is asked by many coffee lovers eager to explore new coffee specialties and step outside the comfort zone of classics like cappuccino or latte. The secret to a flat white's success lies primarily in its excellent balance between coffee intensity and milky accents. In today's article, we explain, among other things, how to make a flat white, what exactly this coffee is, and the difference between a flat white and a latte.

Where does flat white coffee come from?

Unlike many milk-based coffee specialties associated with Italy, the origins of the flat white lie elsewhere, namely in Australia and New Zealand. Both countries still argue over the origin of this milky coffee, claiming they are the ones who should be credited with inventing it. The origins of the flat white are also uncertain, but one of the most popular theories suggests that it was accidental. According to this theory, a barista wanted to serve a customer a cappuccino, but instead of a spectacular, fluffy foam, a flat, milky layer formed on the surface of the coffee . This likely stemmed from working with fresh milk – seasonal changes, as cows' diets change, also alter the composition of milk, making it impossible to froth during this transitional period. Despite not achieving the desired effect, the barista decided to apologize to the customer and serve him an experimental drink, jokingly referring to the prepared coffee as a flat white. What does the name flat white mean? is a clear reference to the small amount of frothed milk on the surface of the coffee.

Flat white coffee turned out to be a real hit, and in the 1980s and 1990s, it began to dominate cafe menus in Australia and New Zealand . Today, this milky coffee can also be enjoyed in many Polish cafes. It's worth noting that flat white coffee can also be easily prepared at home – however, a proven method is essential for satisfying results. Therefore, below we present a great recipe for an aromatic and flavorful flat white .

Flat white – what kind of coffee is it?

To someone unfamiliar with the subject, milk coffees may seem very similar. They rely on the skillful combination of high-quality coffee and milk. However, as in many other areas of life, the devil is in the details. So let's find out what kind of coffee lies behind the name flat white .

The essence of flat white coffee is captured in its name. A flat white is a drink typically prepared with two strong shots of espresso and warm, very lightly frothed milk or a plant-based drink . You can prepare flat white coffee in a cup, mug, or glass – the volume of the container chosen for serving this coffee specialty is usually between 150 and 200 ml.

A seasoned coffee lover will immediately know what kind of coffee they're making when they reach for a flat white. Flat whites have several defining characteristics, including:

• a significant content of heated milk with a thin layer of microfoam, which is distinguished by its velvety and creamy texture,
• balance between the intensity of a double espresso and the sweetness of the milk,
• a large amount of coffee in relation to the volume of the entire drink.

Flat white is a coffee with an intense flavor and a distinct milky note, which makes it a great choice for those who expect a rich flavor experience and excellent aromatic qualities from their drink .

How to make a delicious flat white coffee?

Now that we know what a flat white is and its basic characteristics, it's time to discuss how to make a flat white . To make a good flat white, you'll need the following ingredients:

• two servings (approx. 60 ml) of essential espresso,
• 120 ml milk (3.2% fat or more).

What to serve flat white in? The choice of mug, cup, or glass for your flat white is up to you, but remember to choose the appropriate volume – flat white coffee is generally considered a small milk-based coffee, and it's best to choose a container with a capacity of 150-200 ml. Larger volumes bring us closer to other types of milk-based coffees.

How to make a flat white that will delight with its flavor and velvety texture? Follow our recipe, and the results will surely not disappoint.

1. Warm the cup before preparing the drink.
2. Prepare two shots of espresso using freshly ground coffee in a cup.
3. Froth the milk very gently – remember that the milk temperature should not exceed 60-65 degrees Celsius, otherwise it will lose its desired properties. Do not over-aerate the milk, as this will prevent you from achieving the desired flat white effect.
4. Slowly pour the warm milk into the espresso cup.
5. Serve the flat white immediately after preparation – this way you will enjoy the delicate microfoam, creamy milk consistency and the correct temperature of the drink.

The precision required to make a flat white means it doesn't always come out perfectly the first time. However, remember that practice makes perfect, and the flavor and aroma of this drink will fully reward your efforts .

What is the difference between a flat white and a latte?

Many people who are new to flat white coffee don't realize how it differs from the familiar and beloved latte. Despite many similarities, the two beverages are distinct coffee specialties. A latte is characterized by a higher milk content than a flat white, giving the drink a pleasant sweetness and mildness. A latte is most often served with a single shot of espresso , which serves to enhance the flavor and aroma of this specialty. It's also worth noting the volume of a latte – it typically ranges from 250 to 300 ml, and is sometimes served in larger glasses.

A flat white is characterized by a more intense coffee flavor than a latte . This stems from the fact that it is prepared using a double espresso, and sometimes even a double ristretto. Importantly, a flat white uses a larger proportion of coffee than a latte. Given the smaller serving size of a flat white, the coffee flavors are much more pronounced than those found in a latte.

Summary

You've just learned the answers to some of the most pressing questions about flat whites—what kind of coffee is it, how to make it, and what to watch out for when preparing it . This drink, distinguished by its velvety consistency and intense flavor, can be made using a coffee maker and a milk frother, or an espresso machine equipped with a milk frothing nozzle, among other things.

To prepare an exquisite flat white, you need high-quality, freshly ground coffee beans . Our LaCava coffee roastery offers a wide selection of carefully selected coffee beans from around the world. We also offer innovative coffee machines , including devices that make preparing an exquisite flat white exceptionally easy – with the touch of a button .

Please contact us.