Today’s animated Doodle celebrates the flat white, a beloved coffee drink of steamed milk poured over a shot of espresso. On this day in 2011, flat white was added to the Oxford English Dictionary.
A flat white is a blend of micro-foamed milk poured over a single or double shot of espresso. This microfoam is steamed milk infused with air, which creates tiny air bubbles, to create a smooth and velvety texture and creamy taste.
Doodle celebrates the flat white, a popular espresso-based beverage which originated in Australia and New Zealand.
About the Doodle
Many speculate the drink was first served in Australia and New Zealand during the 1980s when the drink popped up on menus in Sydney and Auckland around the same time. Traditionally served in a ceramic cup, a flat white is made up of an espresso shot topped with steamed milk and a thin layer of microfoam. Being “flatter” than a cappuccino or latte, flat whites are popular with coffee connoisseurs who are looking for less foam. Often, baristas will show off their skills and create beautiful artwork with the pour, something that’s a common sight in many cafes across Australia and New Zealand.
Coffee culture has changed a lot over the years and so have ways to make the flat white. Made with whole milk back in the day, today it’s common to see Aussies and Kiwis ordering it with plant-based milk — oat milk is a rising favourite!
The flat white has since spread far across the world, delighting and becoming a staple in many nations. No matter the origins, coffee lovers worldwide agree it’s a favourite morning or arvo (afternoon) pick-me-up!
Where this Doodle appeared
The Doodle Celebrating the Flat White launched Mar 11, 2024
About Flat White
A flat white is a popular espresso-based coffee drink that originated in Australia and New Zealand. It’s similar to a latte but has a higher coffee-to-milk ratio and a thin layer of microfoam. If you have a coffee machine, make the best use of it with our easy flat white recipe. This trendy beverage has earned its spot at the breakfast table. Here’s a simple recipe for making a flat white at home:
Ingredients
- Espresso (1-2 shots)
- Whole milk (steamed)
- Optional: Coffee beans for espresso
Equipment:
- Espresso machine
- Coffee grinder (if using fresh coffee beans)
- Milk steamer or frother
- Espresso shot glass or cup
- Coffee scale (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Espresso:
- If using fresh coffee beans, grind enough coffee for 1-2 shots of espresso.
- Brew 1-2 shots of espresso using your espresso machine.
- Steam the Milk:
- Pour cold whole milk into the milk steamer pitcher. Use fresh, cold milk for the best results.
- Steam the milk to create a velvety microfoam. Hold the steam wand just below the surface of the milk and angle it slightly to create a swirling motion. Aim for a temperature between 150-160°F (65-71°C).
- Texture the Milk:
- The key to a flat white is the microfoam, which is a creamy, silky textured foam. The microfoam should have a fine, velvety consistency without large bubbles.
- Pour the steamed milk over the espresso in a slow, controlled manner. Hold back the foam with a spoon initially, and then allow it to flow more freely as you finish pouring.
- Create Latte Art (Optional):
- If you’re feeling artistic, you can use the microfoam to create latte art on top of your flat white. This typically involves pouring the foam in a specific way to form patterns on the surface.
- Serve Immediately:
- A flat white is best enjoyed fresh, so serve it immediately after preparation.
Remember that the exact ratio of espresso to milk can vary based on personal preference, but a common starting point is around 1:1 or 1:2 (espresso to milk). Adjust the amounts based on your taste preferences.
Macchiato Vs Cortado Vs Flat White
| Aspect | Macchiato | Cortado | Flat White |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Size | Up to 3 ounces | Around 4-5 ounces | About 5-6 ounces |
| Espresso Content | 1-2 shots | 2 shots | 2 ristretto shots |
| Milk-to-Espresso Ratio | ⅓ espresso, ⅔ steamed milk | 1:1 ratio | ⅓ espresso, ⅔ steamed milk |
| Flavor | Strong espresso flavor | Strong and creamy with subtle sweetness | Smooth, mild, semi-sweet |
| Calorie Content | 5-18 calories, depending on the milk used | 10-37 calories, varying with milk content | 48-110 calories, the most calorie-dense |
FAQ
What is a flat white?
A flat white is a coffee drink that originated in Australia or New Zealand. It is made with espresso and steamed milk, featuring a higher coffee-to-milk ratio compared to a latte. It is known for its velvety microfoam and strong coffee flavor.
How is a flat white different from a latte?
While both flat whites and lattes contain espresso and steamed milk, the key differences lie in the ratio and texture. A flat white has a higher concentration of coffee and a thinner layer of microfoam, resulting in a stronger coffee flavor and a smoother texture.
What kind of milk is used in a flat white?
Whole milk is commonly used in a flat white to achieve a rich and creamy texture. However, some variations may use other types of milk, such as almond milk or soy milk, to cater to different dietary preferences.
How many shots of espresso are in a flat white?
A standard flat white typically contains one or two shots of espresso. The exact number may vary based on personal preference and regional variations.
Can I make a flat white without an espresso machine?
While the traditional method involves using an espresso machine, you can try to replicate a flat white by making strong coffee using other methods like a moka pot or AeroPress. However, achieving the same texture and flavor might be challenging without the use of an espresso machine.
Do I need to add sugar to a flat white?
The decision to add sugar to a flat white is a matter of personal preference. Traditionalists often appreciate the natural sweetness of the milk and the rich flavor of the espresso without the need for additional sweeteners. However, feel free to add sugar if you prefer a sweeter taste.
What is microfoam, and why is it important in a flat white?
Microfoam is finely textured, velvety foam created by steaming milk. It consists of very small, uniform bubbles, giving the milk a creamy and smooth texture. Microfoam is crucial in a flat white as it contributes to the drink’s overall creaminess and helps create a balanced blend with the espresso.
Can I make a flat white with alternative milk options?
Yes, you can use alternative milk options such as almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk to make a flat white. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary, so it’s a good idea to experiment and find the alternative milk that suits your taste preferences.
What is a flat white vs cappuccino?
Flat whites are made with a thin layer of milk foam but contain most of their steamed milk within the drink. Whereas Cappuccinos, focus primarily on foamed milk on top of the drink, rather than having it all in the coffee itself. The ratio for cappuccino is a coffee-to-milk ratio of 1:2. Whereas the flat white is 2:3.
On what date did the Oxford English Dictionary include “flat white”?
On this day in 2011, flat white was added to the Oxford English Dictionary. (March 11, 2024)