Skip to content
NorthFactsFacts first, Canada's reference desk
Culture

Flat White

What is flat white?

· James MacDonald

Key facts

Drink type Espresso-based coffee drink[2]
Milk Steamed milk with microfoam[2]
Espresso shots Single or double shot[2]
Coffee-to-milk ratio Higher than a latte[4]
Foam Thinner than a cappuccino[4]
Serving size 6 to 8 oz cup or glass[1]

A flat white is an espresso-based coffee drink made with steamed milk and a thin layer of microfoam, offering a higher coffee-to-milk ratio than a latte and less foam than a cappuccino. It is typically served in a 6 to 8 oz cup or glass and can be made with a single or double shot of espresso.

Context

The flat white is a popular espresso-based drink known for its strong coffee flavour and silky texture. It is often compared to a latte or cappuccino, but it stands apart with its higher coffee-to-milk ratio and thinner foam layer [4]. The milk is steamed to create a smooth, velvety microfoam that is poured over the espresso [2]. The term 'flat' comes from the way the foam is levelled with the rim of the cup, giving it a flat surface [3]. Typically served in a 6 to 8 oz cup, it can be made with a single or double shot of espresso, and some variations use a double ristretto for a more intense flavour [1] [3].

Documented claims

  • The milk in a flat white is smooth and velvety, poured over espresso. [2]
  • The name 'flat' refers to the milk foam being levelled with the rim of the cup. [3]
  • Some variations use a double espresso or double ristretto. [3]

Questions and answers

What is a flat white vs latte?

A flat white has a higher coffee-to-milk ratio than a latte, making the coffee flavour more pronounced [4].

Is flat white 1 or 2 shots?

It can be made with either a single or double shot of espresso, depending on the recipe [2].

Is a flat white just a cappuccino?

No, a flat white has less foam than a cappuccino, resulting in a thinner microfoam layer [4].

Sources

  1. What is Flat White Coffee? — nescafe.com (retrieved August 3, 2026)
  2. What is a Flat White? — coffeecircle.com (retrieved August 3, 2026)
  3. Flat White Coffee: Definition, Taste, Brewing, and Best Beans — colipsecoffee.com (retrieved August 3, 2026)
  4. Deep Dive: What Is a Flat White Coffee? — drinktrade.com (retrieved August 3, 2026)

Sources last checked August 3, 2026. · More in Culture