Flat White
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Flat White

Australia
Australia

The Flat White is an espresso-based coffee known for its strong flavor and higher caffeine content, made with a double shot of espresso and lightly steamed milk. Unlike other espresso-based drinks, such as the Latte or Cappuccino, the Flat White offers a more balanced experience with less foam and a richer coffee taste.

 

Contents

 

Coffee Beans and Caffeine Content in Flat White

Flat Whites are made using an espresso as the base, which means they are made using two main types of coffee beans: Arabica for flavor and Robusta for intensity and caffeine content. The caffeine level in a Flat White is 160mg, due to the fact that Flat White uses a double shot instead of a single, or double the amount compared to most other coffees with a single Espresso shot base out there, such as Cappuccino's or Cortado's.

 

Origin of Flat White

The Flat White originated in either Australia or New Zealand during the 1980s, where café owners in both countries claim its creation. It was designed to offer a milk-based espresso drink without the frothy foam of a cappuccino, giving coffee drinkers a more balanced experience between the espresso and the milk. Today, it’s a staple in coffee shops worldwide, especially popular in specialty cafés.

 

What’s the Difference? Flat White vs. Latte vs. Cappuccino

Though Flat White, Latte, and Cappuccino all use espresso and steamed milk, the main difference lies in the number of espresso shots, the froth texture and ratio of milk to coffee. Flat Whites use two espresso shots compared to one shot used in Latte's, they have less milk than Latte's and a thin layer of foam, but this is only visual as they are served in wider cups. Comparing Latte's and Flat Whites, we will see the difference in serving. The Flat Whites are almost always served in lower and wider ceramic cups, while Lattes are in narrower and longer glasses, but in full honestly comparing the two coffees visually while having them in the same cup, we can not see the difference. Comparing Flat White to Cappuccinos, Flat Whites have two espresso shots compared to one in Cappuccinos, and we can actually see difference between them as Cappuccinos have much more foam creating a more layered texture.

 

How to Make a Flat White

Flat Whites are made differently depending on if we make it in Australia or New Zealand, but due to a general belief that Australia has more Flat Whites consumed per capita, we will focus on the Aussie way:

  • Espresso: Start with making a double espresso shot (around 40-60ml) in a ceramic cup with a handle (Australian version).
  • Milk: Steam whole milk at a ratio of 1:2 comparing it to espresso (100ml to 120ml), until it reaches a velvety texture with very small, fine bubbles (micro foam). This should be made at around 60C degrees to make the milk smooth, but not frothy like in a Cappuccino.
  • Pour: Slowly pour the steamed milk over the Espresso, as this will create the micro foam on top of the coffee.

 

Watch this video on how to make a perfect Flat White at home, pay attention to the Microfoam:

 

Flat White Variations

The flat white can be modified to create different flavor profiles and styles:

  • Flat White with Alternative Milks: Using almond, soy, oat, or other plant-based milks can give the flat white a slightly different texture and taste.
  • Cold Flat White: This variation involves pouring cold, steamed milk over a double shot of chilled espresso for a refreshing take.
  • Flavored Flat White: Syrups like vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut can be added to give a sweet flavor to the traditional Flat White.

 

Flat White Facts and Trivia

  • Popularity in the World: Even though Flat Whites were around for a while, it wasn't until Starbucks introduced them in 2015 to their manu, which made them world-famous.
  • Microfoam Mastery: Achieving the perfect micro foam is key to a Flat White. The milk should be silky and without any large bubbles, creating a harmonious blend with the espresso.