Both a flat white and a latte use the same amount of espresso. The difference is that a flat white is made with steamed milk with less foam than a latte. A latte is also larger than a flat white.
Coffee drinks are always evolving, and coffee professionals around the world love to experiment. One experiment in particular, the flat white, was so successful that it earned a place on the menu of many coffee shops.
In this article, we'll go into more detail about their origins, how milk is frothed differently, and the different cup sizes each uses.
Both the flat white and the latte are creamy espresso-based drinks. While either can be served in a single or double shot, both are commonly served with double shots, especially in the U.S.
The double shot is for balance, as both drinks have a lot of dairy mixed in. However, you'll get more espresso flavor with a flat white than with a latte because there's less milk in the former.
Basic data of the flat white
The flat white is the newer of the two drinks, originating sometime in the 1980s. However, its exact origins are strongly debated between Australia and New Zealand.
Just like its creation, the actual preparation of a flat white varies greatly depending on the establishment you order from. The basic constant is that it's less dense than a latte or even a cappuccino. This is because it uses microfoam instead of regular milk foam or steamed milk.
Ideally, a purely textured microfoam is integrated into 1-2 shots of espresso in a 5 oz cup to form a flat white. The result is pure silk with no foam and a solid espresso note.
Basic facts about lattes
Originating in the 1950s, the latte supposedly developed as a result of many Americans finding cappuccino too strong. It really took off in popularity in the 1980s and remains one of the most popular beverages.
As mentioned above, a latte starts with an espresso, which occupies approximately 1/6 of the cup (1-2 shots). It's then filled 4/6 of the cup with 5-6 oz of steamed milk, followed by a thin layer of milk foam.
Clearly, this drink has a heavy milk base (even the word "latte" means milk in Italian). This results in a very creamy and smooth drink that's usually served in an 8-ounce cup.
Finally, lattes are often served with art on top, created during the foam pouring process.
The milk factor
As with most espresso-based drinks, milk is added to both a flat white and a latte. The difference, however, is how the milk is mixed or frothed.
Typically, when a barista steams milk, it naturally forms three layers as it stretches. The bottom layer is the steamed milk, which is covered in a naturally occurring microfoam with tiny air bubbles. A more aerated foam sits on top.
Which is better?
The specific cup size and ratio of coffee to milk can vary, but the general consensus is that a flat white is smaller than a latte and generally contains more espresso.
If you enjoy the nuanced flavors of specialty coffee but want something dairy-based, a flat white might be a better choice than a latte. Because it has less milk, a flat white allows you to more fully experience the sensory profile of the beans. But is it objectively better? No. There are many ways to experience specialty coffee , and everyone has a personal preference.
Is a flat white stronger than a latte? A flat white is a more concentrated drink that will have a stronger flavor. It can also be stronger than a latte in terms of caffeine due to the use of two shots.
A flat white combines the flavor and intensity of espresso with the rich mouthfeel of a dairy-based beverage. Don't like dairy? Plant-based alternatives tend to foam less easily than dairy, so they can work well with flat whites.
So if you're looking for a smaller drink with a larger espresso shot and a velvety mouthfeel, try ordering a flat white.
On the other hand, if you're interested in a larger drink that tastes like espresso with milk, we recommend a latte.