If you're a fan of bold espresso with velvety steamed milk, then the flat white is the perfect coffee drink for you. With its rich flavour and silky texture, this popular coffee classic from Down Under, now accounts for 10% of all café sales in the UK.
The trick to a perfect Flat White? According to our team, it's all about the milk steaming. It needs to be well stretched and spun to create the micro foam that gives it a creamy texture. Today, we're going to show you how to craft the perfect flat white from the comfort of your own home.
What you'll need:
- 1-2 shots of espresso (depending on your preference). Our House Caveman is the perfect espresso for your Flat White creations.
- 170ml of milk (preferably whole milk)
- Espresso machine
- Steam wand
- Thermometer
- Espresso cup or small mug
Step-by-step guide:
Follow these simple steps to make a perfectly smooth and delicious flat white:
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Prepare your espresso: Start by brewing 1-2 shots of espresso, depending on how strong you like your coffee. Make sure the espresso is freshly brewed and hot.
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Texture your milk: Pour the milk into a steel milk jug and using the steam wand start aerating the milk by introducing steam into it while it simultaneously swirls around the jug. Make sure you are creating small and uniform bubbles, and stop when the milk becomes twice its original volume. Check for temperature, which should be around 66°C. The perfect 'Fattie' is an even mix of liquid milk and velvet micro-foaminess.
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Pour the milk: Swirl the milk jug to mix the foam with the steamed milk and slowly pour it over the espresso shot, aiming for the centre of the cup while maintaining a consistent flow throughout the process. The foam should sit on top of the milk and the espresso.
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Create the pattern: Using the milk jug's spout, move the jug in a circular motion to create a beautiful pattern. This technique is commonly known as "latte art," and it adds an aesthetic touch to your cup of coffee.
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Enjoy your Perfect Flat White: Savour the smooth and velvety taste of your flat white as you take your first sip. The texture of the milk should be smooth and balanced with the coffee, creating a harmonious flavour profile in every sip.
Experiment with different types of milk to create variations of the flat white. Almond milk, soy milk, and oat milk are good alternatives for those who are lactose intolerant or looking for a dairy-free option. You can also adjust the ratio of milk to espresso to personalize the strength of your coffee.
And there you have it, a step-by-step guide to crafting the perfect flat white at home. Use these tips and techniques to perfect your flat white and savour the smooth and rich taste in every sip.