How to Make the Perfect Flat White at Home

The flat white is a popular coffee drink known for its smooth, velvety texture and balanced coffee-to-milk ratio. Originating from Australia and New Zealand, this espresso-based drink is smaller than a latte but creamier than a cappuccino, making it a favorite among coffee lovers.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to make an authentic flat white at home, the best coffee beans to use, and expert tips for achieving the perfect microfoam.

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1. What Is a Flat White?

A flat white consists of:

✔ A double shot of espresso – Provides a bold coffee flavor.
✔ Steamed milk with microfoam – Creates a smooth, creamy texture.
✔ A thin layer of foam – Unlike a cappuccino, which has thick foam.

🡆 Best For: Coffee lovers who prefer a stronger espresso flavor with creamy milk.

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2. Ingredients for a Classic Flat White

✔ Double shot of espresso (or 2 oz strong coffee)
✔ 4 oz steamed whole milk (oat or almond milk also works)

Optional Additions:

✔ ½ tsp vanilla extract for sweetness.
✔ A sprinkle of cocoa powder or cinnamon for extra flavor.

🡆 Key Takeaway: Whole milk creates the best creamy texture, but dairy-free options like oat milk also work well.

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3. How to Make a Flat White (Step by Step)

✅ Step 1: Brew a Double Shot of Espresso

• Use an espresso machine or a moka pot to extract a strong, rich double shot.
• If using a drip coffee maker, brew 2 oz of very strong coffee.

✅ Step 2: Steam and Froth the Milk

• Heat 4 oz of whole milk to about 150°F (65°C).
• Use a steam wand or milk frother to create silky microfoam.
• The milk should have tiny, smooth bubbles (not thick and airy like cappuccino foam).

✅ Step 3: Pour the Milk Over the Espresso

• Hold the cup at an angle and slowly pour the milk into the espresso, creating a creamy, even layer.
• Try latte art by gently swirling the milk as you pour.

✅ Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

• Your flat white should have a thin, velvety layer of microfoam on top.

🡆 Key Takeaway: A slow, steady pour helps create a perfectly blended flat white.

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4. Flat White vs. Latte vs. Cappuccino

Drink	Espresso	Milk Ratio	Foam?	Flavor Strength
Flat White	✅ Double Shot	1:2 (less milk)	✅ Thin microfoam	Strong
Latte	✅ Single Shot	1:3 (more milk)	✅ Thick foam	Mild
Cappuccino	✅ Single Shot	1:1 (equal milk & foam)	✅ Thick & airy	Bold

🡆 Key Takeaway: A flat white has less milk than a latte and smoother foam than a cappuccino.

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5. Best Coffee Beans for a Flat White

Since the flat white has a strong coffee taste, choosing the right beans is crucial.

Recommended Beans:

✔ Colombian Beans – Smooth, caramel, balanced acidity.
✔ Brazilian Beans – Chocolatey, nutty, creamy.
✔ Ethiopian Beans – Fruity, slightly floral, bright acidity.

Best Roast Level:

✅ Medium-Dark Roast – Balances bold coffee flavors with milk’s creaminess.

🡆 Key Takeaway: Use rich, smooth coffee beans to complement the milk’s sweetness.

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6. Flat White Variations to Try

🌱 Dairy-Free Flat White

• Use oat, almond, or coconut milk for a plant-based option.

🍯 Honey Flat White

• Add 1 tsp honey before steaming the milk for natural sweetness.

🍂 Spiced Flat White (Perfect for Fall!)

• Sprinkle cinnamon and nutmeg on top for a warm, cozy flavor.

🍫 Mocha Flat White

• Mix ½ tsp cocoa powder into the espresso before adding milk.

❄️ Iced Flat White

• Use cold frothed milk and serve over ice for a refreshing summer drink.

🡆 Key Takeaway: You can customize a flat white with different flavors, milk types, and temperatures.

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7. Pro Tips for the Perfect Flat White

✔ Use freshly brewed espresso for the best flavor.
✔ Steam the milk to the right temperature (150°F / 65°C)—too hot will taste burnt.
✔ Aim for microfoam, not thick froth—tiny, velvety bubbles create the best texture.
✔ Pour slowly—this helps blend the espresso and milk evenly.

🡆 Key Takeaway: Mastering milk steaming and pouring techniques is key to making a perfect flat white.

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Final Thoughts

A flat white is a smooth, bold, and creamy coffee drink that’s perfect for those who love espresso-forward flavors. With just espresso and steamed milk, you can create a barista-quality flat white at home.

So, grab your favorite coffee beans, steam some milk, and enjoy a perfect homemade flat white today! ☕✨