The Basics: What is a Flat White?

At its core, a flat white is an espresso-based coffee with steamed milk. But unlike a latte or cappuccino, the flat white has a more concentrated coffee flavour, smoother texture, and a thinner layer of foam. Typically served in a smaller cup (usually around 150-180 ml), it has a higher coffee-to-milk ratio, giving it a stronger taste compared to milder milk-based drinks.

The origins of the flat white are a bit disputed. Both Australia and New Zealand claim to have invented the drink in the 1980s, with different coffee aficionados arguing over its precise origins. Wherever it began, it has now firmly established itself as a staple in coffee culture across the UK.

How is a Flat White Made?

The process of making a flat white is fairly straightforward but requires some skill to achieve the perfect balance. Here’s a quick breakdown of how it’s done:

• Espresso Shot: A flat white usually starts with a double shot of espresso, which gives it a bold, rich flavour. The espresso forms the foundation of the drink, so its quality and freshness are key.

• Steamed Milk: The milk is steamed to a velvety microfoam texture, distinct from the frothier milk used in a cappuccino. The barista aims for a smooth, glossy finish, with tiny bubbles that create a creamy texture without too much foam.

• Thin Layer of Foam: The milk is poured carefully over the espresso to create a thin layer of microfoam on top. This is different from a cappuccino, which has a much thicker layer of foam, or a latte, where the milk is more prominent. The thin foam layer helps to keep the focus on the coffee itself, without drowning it out.

How is a Flat White Different from a Latte or Cappuccino?

One of the biggest points of confusion is the difference between a flat white, a latte, and a cappuccino. Here’s a quick comparison:

• Latte: Usually served in a larger cup (around 240 ml or more), a latte has a higher milk-to-coffee ratio, making it milder and creamier. The milk in a latte is also steamed with slightly less texture, resulting in a smoother, less foamy drink.

• Cappuccino: A cappuccino has equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and foam, giving it a distinctive, fluffy layer on top. This foam is thicker and airier than the microfoam of a flat white, and cappuccinos are often dusted with cocoa powder.

• Flat White: The flat white sits in between a cappuccino and a latte. It’s smaller than a latte, with a stronger coffee flavour and a velvety microfoam, but it lacks the thick froth of a cappuccino.

Essentially, a flat white is designed to bring out the espresso’s flavour, with the milk serving as a creamy but subtle complement. This is why it's loved by people who enjoy the robust taste of coffee but appreciate the balance and creaminess of steamed milk.

Why Choose a Flat White?

A flat white is an excellent choice for those who enjoy the boldness of espresso but find an Americano too strong or a latte too mild. The carefully steamed microfoam creates a rich texture that enhances the coffee without overpowering it. Because of the smaller cup size, the coffee's flavour remains concentrated, giving you a full-bodied experience that you don’t always get with larger, milk-heavy drinks.

For coffee lovers who value the craft of espresso and milk blending, the flat white offers the best of both worlds. It’s strong but not overpowering, creamy but not overly milky, and it celebrates the espresso in a way that many other milk-based drinks do not.

The Perfect Accompaniment to British Coffee Culture:

In the UK, the flat white has quickly become a beloved coffee style, fitting in perfectly with the British love of quality coffee in all its forms. Many cafés now offer flat whites with alternative milks, such as oat or almond, making it a versatile choice for those who prefer dairy-free options.

Whether you’re at an independent coffee shop in Brighton or grabbing a morning cup from a chain in London, the flat white has secured its place as a mainstay of British coffee culture. Its focus on quality, balance, and bold flavours makes it a go-to option for anyone seeking something a bit stronger and more refined than a latte.

In Conclusion:

So next time you see “flat white” on the menu, you’ll know exactly what you’re ordering. It’s a drink that’s simple yet sophisticated, offering a unique coffee experience for those who appreciate a richer, more nuanced cup. If you love to drink your coffee on the go like myself why not grab a stainless steel cup from Hydronair guaranteed to keep your coffee hot or cold for 6 hours. Click here we've got you covered.