What Is Flat White Coffee? 3 Essential Differences from Latte and Cappuccino

Have you ever wondered what makes a flat white coffee different from a latte or cappuccino? This smooth, creamy espresso drink has become a favorite around the world. In this guide, we’ll break down what a flat white really is, how it’s made, and why it’s so loved by baristas and coffee enthusiasts alike.

What Is Flat White Coffee?

A flat white coffee is an espresso-based drink made with steamed milk and a thin layer of microfoam. It’s similar to a latte but has a stronger coffee flavor and a silkier texture. The flat white was first popularized in Australia and New Zealand, and today it’s a favorite in specialty cafés worldwide.

What’s the Difference Between a Flat White, a Latte, and a Cappuccino?

How to Make a Flat White at Home

1. Pull a double shot of espresso.
2. Steam milk to a smooth, velvety texture.
3. Pour the milk over espresso slowly, creating a thin microfoam layer.

Best Coffee Beans for a Flat White

A flat white tastes best with medium roast beans that balance sweetness and acidity. Try blends with notes of caramel, chocolate, or nuts.
Explore our signature blends at Lovers.coffee.

Why Coffee Lovers Enjoy Flat White

People love flat white coffee for its smooth balance of milk and espresso. It’s strong enough for coffee fans and creamy enough for milk lovers. It’s the perfect middle ground between a latte and a cappuccino.

Conclusion

A flat white coffee is the perfect balance of rich espresso and smooth, silky milk, simple yet satisfying. Whether you enjoy it at your favorite café or brew it at home, now you know what makes it special and how it stands apart from a latte or cappuccino.

If you’d like to try making one yourself, explore our freshly roasted espresso beans and start creating your perfect cup today.

Want to learn more about coffee every day? Check out our blog daily for simple guides, brewing tips, and everything coffee lovers need to know.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a flat white coffee?

A flat white coffee is an espresso-based drink made with steamed milk and a thin layer of microfoam. It’s smoother than a cappuccino and stronger than a latte, giving a balanced flavor of coffee and creaminess in every sip.

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

A flat white has less milk and a thinner layer of foam compared to a latte. This makes the espresso flavor in a flat white stronger, while a latte tastes milkier and lighter in texture.

What do Americans call a flat white?

In the United States, it’s also called a flat white coffee, the same name used in cafés worldwide. It became popular when large coffee chains like Starbucks and local specialty cafés added it to their menus.

Why is flat white coffee so popular?

The flat white coffee is loved for its smooth texture, creamy milk, and strong espresso base. It offers the perfect balance for people who want a rich coffee flavor without the bitterness of straight espresso or the heaviness of a latte.