Content Summary
You may have heard of the flat white. It’s a delicious coffee beverage, with a creamy texture and intense flavor, and it's popular in New Zealand.
We’ll share with you how to make a flat white with a Nespresso coffee machine and make one without a machine – so no matter your equipment situation, you can still enjoy this unique coffee treat.
2 Methods Of Making A Flat White
1. Make A Flat White With Nespresso
Making a flat white with Nespresso is very simple and can be done in 6 steps. The ratio is 1 shot of espresso and then add 2 shots of warm milk.
- Step 1: Brew your espresso shot with your Nespresso machine, pour it into a cup.
- Step 2: Warm up some milk on the stovetop or in the microwave until it is steaming hot.
- Step 3: Froth your milk using a milk frother until it has doubled in size and is light and airy.
- Step 4: Pour the steamed milk into the cup.
- Step 5: Gently stir in the espresso shot until it forms an even layer of foam on top.
- Step 6: Use a spoon to swirl the foam over the surface of your latte before serving. Enjoy!
2. Make A Flat White Without A Machine
Don't have a coffee machine? No problem! You can still make yourself a delicious flat white at home. All you need is some freshly ground coffee beans (or pre-ground coffee if that's all you have), milk, boiling water from the kettle or stovetop, and a coffee filter.
- Step 1: Fill a coffee filter with freshly ground coffee beans, about 2 tablespoons for each cup.
- Step 2: Place a paper filter inside the filter and set it on top of a cup or mug.
- Step 3: Boil some water in the kettle or on the stovetop and then slowly pour it over the coffee grounds.
- Step 3: Let the grounds steep for 3-4 minutes until infused with flavor.
- Step 4: Take the filter out of the cup and discard it.
- Step 5: Put some warm milk in a mug or cup and froth it using a whisk, milk frother or French press.
- Step 6: Pour in some steamed milk on top of the coffee cup until it almost fills the cup, and then stir with a spoon.
- Step 7: Add a teaspoon of sugar if desired.
- Step 8: Enjoy your flat white!
Making Flat White FAQs
Here are some of the most common questions about how to make a flat white.
What are the proportions of a flat white?
The proportion for making a flat white is 1 shot of espresso (60 ml) and 2 shots of warm milk (120 ml). However, feel free to adjust the ratios according to your taste. If you’d like a stronger coffee flavor, use more espresso and less milk.
What's the difference between a flat white and a latte?
- An exquisite flat white is a combination of espresso and steamed milk with a more subtle, thin layer of foam. In comparison, lattes have an abundant amount of fluffy froth that makes them lighter and creamy in texture.
- A flat white is typically presented in a smaller cup size, whereas its cafe companion - the latte - is generally poured into larger or taller vessels.
- A flat white has a higher ratio of coffee over milk (1:2) than a latte (1:3 or 1:4).
What's the difference between a flat white and a cappuccino?
There is a distinct difference between a flat white and cappuccino. A flat white typically has less foam, served in a smaller cup than the latter.
Cappuccinos are usually found accompanied by more froth on top with the addition of chocolate shavings or cocoa powder for an enhanced flavor profile - all this complemented by its larger-than-usual size!
How long should you froth milk for a flat white?
The ideal time for frothing milk for a flat white is about 10-15 seconds. The goal is to create light and airy foam that will sit on the surface of your latte. Start with 10 seconds and then increase the time if necessary.
How flat should a flat white be?
A flat white should have a thin layer of creamy foam on top. At maximum, it should be about 1 cm deep. This will help your espresso flavor shine through and give you a perfectly balanced cup of coffee.
Tips & Tricks
- If you don't have a milk frother, you can still enjoy a great flat white. Heat the milk in the microwave, then use a French press or whisk to create foam before pouring it into your cup.
- Use espresso shots that are freshly ground for the best flavor.
- Add some freshly ground espresso beans to the top of your drink for a touch of extra flavor.
- If you want a stronger coffee flavor, use more espresso and less milk.
- If you want a milder cup of coffee, use less espresso and more milk.
Need an espresso maker? Check out our top picks of best espresso machines under 300 USD and get your favorite gadget today.
Jane Vo
With these tips and tricks to make a flat white, anyone can master this creamy caffeinated beverage right in their kitchen! There are plenty of ways to make yourself a cup of flat white anytime you feel like it. Enjoy!
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