Flat White vs. Latte: What’s the Difference and How To Make Them

Coffee shops practically have endless menus these days. And with so many choices, deciding which drink to order can be difficult. Two well-loved drinks by many coffee enthusiasts are flat whites and lattes. But if you’re not familiar with these beverages, you might be wondering what makes each of these options unique.

In this post, we’ll provide a detailed comparison of these two iconic coffee beverages. We’ll discuss the key differences between the two and provide helpful instructions for creating each drink in the comfort of your own home. And once you finish reading this post, you’ll be an expert on flat whites and lattes!

The Difference

First, let’s examine the critical distinctions between flat whites and lattes. A flat white contains less milk compared to a latte, resulting in a stronger beverage. While they both have the same amount of espresso in them, flat whites have a more concentrated amount of caffeine due to their smaller sizes and lower milk-to-espresso ratio. A flat white also contains less foam than a latte.

Taste and Texture

Lattes are creamy and less punchy than flat whites. Many also pair their lattes with syrups and other sweeteners. Flat whites are stronger but do give your more of that espresso flavor.

Popularity of Each

Flat whites are most popular in Australia (its country of origin) and its neighbor New Zealand. Lattes are more popular in North America, Asia, and Europe. In recent years, though, both lattes and flat whites have also become increasingly popular all over the world.

How To Make a Flat White

Combine two espresso shots with steamed milk to make a delicious flat White for a balanced and rich flavor. Start by grinding freshly roasted espresso beans into a fine ground. The quality of the beans and the fineness of the grind will greatly impact the taste of your Flat White. Next, use an espresso machine to extract two espresso shots. This process ensures that the flavors of the beans extract evenly, resulting in a robust and aromatic base for your drink.

Now, it’s time to steam the milk. Take a pitcher and pour four ounces of cold (preferably whole) milk into it (you can also use dairy-free options). Position the pitcher under the steam wand of your espresso machine or use a handheld frother. Activate the steam wand, and as the milk heats up, small bubbles form on the surface. The steaming process typically takes around 30 seconds to one minute. Be mindful not to overheat the milk, as it can affect the taste and texture of your Flat White.

Once the milk perfectly steams, it’s time to pour it over the espresso. Slowly and steadily pour the steamed milk into the cup, filling it up while carefully controlling the flow. This technique helps create a smooth and velvety texture. Be cautious not to overfill the cup as it can mess up the flavor and milk-to-espresso ratio.

To add an extra touch, use a spoon to create some texture on the surface of the milk before serving. This step will help enhance the visual appeal of your flat white

How To Make a Latte

The process of making a latte resembles that of a flat white. To begin, grind freshly roasted coffee beans into a fine consistency. This step is crucial as it impacts the flavor profile of your latte. Once the coffee grounds are ready, use an espresso machine to brew two espresso shots. The finely ground coffee interacts with the hot water under pressure, extracting the flavors and aromas to create a robust coffee base.

Next, it’s time to prepare the milk. Take a pitcher and pour six ounces of cold whole milk into it (again, you can also use dairy-free options). Position the pitcher under the steam wand of your espresso machine. Activate the steam wand and let the milk heat up. As the milk steams, you’ll notice bubbles forming on the surface. The steaming process typically takes 45 seconds to a minute and 15 seconds, depending on your desired milk temperature and texture. Once you achieve the desired result, turn off the steam wand. (You can also use a separate milk frothing tool if you don’t have a frother in your espresso machine).

Now, it’s time to combine the espresso and milk. Slowly pour the steamed milk over the espresso. Begin by filling the cup or glass until it is two-thirds full. Ensure that the milk covers all three shots of espresso. If you wish, you can try your hand at some creative latte art to enhance the presentation.

Variations

Flat white and lattes are highly adaptable drinks that you can customize to suit individual preferences. They provide the flexibility to incorporate various modifications and additions, such as using different types of milk or adding flavoring syrups, allowing you to create a drink that perfectly suits your taste.

When it comes to flat white variations, you can try an oat milk flat white, which offers a creamy and slightly nutty flavor. A coconut milk flat white adds a hint of coconut goodness for a tropical twist. Those who prefer a touch of nuttiness can opt for a bit of hazelnut syrup and some almond milk.

If you’re a latte enthusiast, there are a number of exciting variations to explore. The fan-favorite vanilla latte infuses the drink with a sweet and aromatic vanilla flavor, while a caramel Latte offers a rich and indulgent caramel twist. For chocolate lovers, a mocha latte combines the flavors of coffee and chocolate for a delightful treat. And if you enjoy a hint of warmth and spice, a cinnamon latte delivers a comforting and flavorful experience.

Conclusion

If you’re deciding between a flat white and a latte, you should now have enough information to make an informed decision. No matter which type you choose, you can’t go wrong if you start with quality ingredients and practice your technique. And who knows, you may end up loving them both!