Similar to Milk Coffee, What Actually is Flat White Coffee?

Sejarah The History of Flat White Coffee

Talking about the origin of this drink may stir up a debate. Some people might say that it comes from Australia, while others believe that it comes from New Zealand. However, no matter which country it comes from, almost everyone agrees that this milk coffee drink dates back to the 1980s.

Since then, flat white coffee has spread throughout the world and became a popular drink in cafes, including in Indonesia. But, what makes it different?

Also Read: Why is Iced Coffee with Milk a Favorite for Many?

Differences of Flat White Coffee

There are many milk coffee drinks out there, and sometimes it is difficult to differentiate between them. The differences between these drinks are very slim, yet very important because they each offer a new sensation/experience of drinking coffee.

This is exactly what you will get when you order flat white coffee. At first glance, a cup of flat white coffee seems similar to a cappuccino or latte. However, if you pay close attention, the flat white is served in a smaller coffee cup, a 180 ml cup, giving a stronger coffee flavor.

When compared to a latte, flat white coffee may have a more intense coffee flavor. This is because flat white coffee tends to contain more espresso. So, this type of drink is really suitable for those of you who like coffee with milk, but also want to enjoy the coffee flavor!

The Naming of Flat White Coffee

Apart from those mentioned above, there is one more difference that you need to know. This one needs its own spotlight because this is the origin of the name. So, what is it?

Before discussing it further, it is important for you to understand how flat white coffee is served. Generally, the baristas will serve it with a milk microfoam layer on top, which has a distinctive and dense texture. This foam layer is created thinner, so you can enjoy the flavor of espresso below.

Indeed, the thickness or thinness of this layer will be relative, depending on who makes it, where the coffee is served, or how the customers like it. However, everyone will definitely enjoy flat white coffee with a flat foam layer. That's why it’s called flat white coffee!

How to Make Flat White Coffee

Now you know what size of cup to choose, what kind of foam to put on top, and an idea of how much espresso to use. This is the time for you to know how to make your own flat white coffee at home.

From the recipe released by BBC GoodFood, you need to prepare 35 ml of espresso and pour it into a cup. Prepare a pitcher and steam 100 ml of milk so that the fat in the milk produces a thin layer of foam at the top.

Next, slowly pour the milk into the middle of the cup that already contains espresso, while paying attention to the volume of milk and coffee. The more the cup fills, make sure you pour the milk closer to the cup.

Now, when the volume increases and the milk has been poured in, tilt the pitcher containing the steamed milk so that it pours out more quickly. The milk will reach the bottom layer of the coffee and create the perfect flat white texture. Your flat white is done!

This process will require a special espresso tool and also the ability to make steamed milk. So, if you prefer to try a simpler recipe, you can check out the NESCAFÉ style coffee recipe series. You will find various easy recipes that you can follow using NESCAFÉ Classic instant coffee.

NESCAFÉ Classic is made from 100% pure robusta beans, which have gone through a drying process to be able to produce instant coffee. This is important when you make milk coffee creations. With this, you will be able to enjoy a combination of coffee, milk, and other ingredients without having to worry about drinking the dregs.

That's a brief review of flat white coffee. Basically, flat white coffee is similar to cappuccino and latte milk coffee in that they all consist of coffee, milk, and milk foam. However, flat white coffee is generally made with more espresso and an overall lower milk content. As the name suggests, flat white coffee also has a flat white top layer made from milk foam. Hopefully this information is useful.