Welcome to the world of the Flat White, a coffee lover's dream that originated in Australia and New Zealand in the 1980s. This elegant beverage strikes the perfect balance between rich espresso and velvety steamed milk, offering a smooth and creamy texture that's truly irresistible.
The Flat White is crafted using a double shot of espresso, ideally made with medium to dark roast beans for a robust flavor profile. The key to its distinctive character lies in the microfoam - milk steamed to create tiny, fine bubbles that blend seamlessly with the espresso, resulting in a silky smooth texture and a harmonious coffee-to-milk ratio. This technique requires precision and skill, making the Flat White a testament to the barista's art.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Discover why the Flat White is a coffee connoisseur's favorite:
- Perfect balance: Enjoy the ideal ratio of espresso to milk for a harmonious flavor
- Silky texture: Experience the velvety smoothness of perfectly steamed microfoam
- Rich flavor: Savor the robust taste of quality espresso without overwhelming milkiness
- Artisanal craftsmanship: Appreciate the skill required to create this beautifully layered drink
- Versatile enjoyment: Suitable for any time of day, from morning pick-me-up to afternoon indulgence
Classic Flat White
Equipment
- Espresso machine
- Milk steaming pitcher
- 5-6 oz cup
- Coffee grinder
- Tamper
Ingredients
- 2 shots (2 oz) espresso
- 4 oz whole milk
Instructions
- Pull a double shot of espresso into a 5-6 oz cup.
- Steam the milk to create a velvety microfoam, aiming for a temperature of 140-150°F (60-65°C).
- Gently pour the steamed milk over the espresso, starting from a slight height to allow the microfoam to integrate with the crema.
- As the cup fills, bring the milk pitcher closer to the surface and finish with a small dot of foam in the center.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your perfectly crafted Flat White.