Flat White vs. Latte: How They Compare and How to Brew Them Perfectly

If you love espresso-based drinks but struggle to choose between a flat white and a latte, you're not alone. While both drinks contain espresso and milk, their preparation, taste, and texture are distinctly different. Understanding these differences will help you pick the perfect cup based on your personal preferences.

This guide will explore:

• Flat White vs Latte: What’s the Difference?

• How to Make a Flat White & Latte at Home

• Which One is Stronger and Healthier?

• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Flat White vs. Latte: What’s the Difference?

While both flat white and latte are espresso-based drinks with steamed milk, they have distinct differences in milk texture, serving size, and overall flavor balance.

1. The Basics

The main difference between the two drinks is how the milk is steamed and textured:

• Flat White: Uses a smaller amount of finely textured microfoam, creating a silky-smooth consistency that blends seamlessly with the espresso.

• Latte: Has a larger volume of milk, making it creamier and lighter, with a subtle espresso flavor.

Pro Tip: If you prefer a stronger coffee flavor with a smooth finish, go for a Flat White. If you like a more milk-forward, creamy drink, a Latte is the way to go!

2. Origin & Cultural Significance

Flat White

The Flat White is believed to have originated in either Australia or New Zealand in the 1980s. Baristas in these countries wanted to create a milk-based espresso drink that retained a strong coffee flavor without the thicker foam layer of a cappuccino.

• The term “Flat White” comes from the thin microfoam layer on top, which appears flat and velvety rather than foamy.

• Today, the Flat White is a specialty café favorite, particularly among those who enjoy a stronger espresso taste with a silky-smooth milk texture.

Latte (Caffè Latte)

The Latte (short for Caffè Latte) originates from Italy and translates to “coffee with milk.” Traditionally, it was served as a home-style breakfast drink rather than a specialty café beverage.

• It became immensely popular in North America and worldwide, especially in coffee chains like Starbucks, where flavored syrups and alternative milk options turned it into a customizable, widely loved coffee drink.

• Today, the latte is one of the most versatile espresso-based drinks, often enjoyed with latte art, flavored syrups (vanilla, caramel, hazelnut), and even iced variations.

How to Make a Flat White & Latte at Home

Flat White Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 shot of espresso

• 120ml steamed milk with microfoam

Steps:

1. Brew the espresso using a high-quality espresso machine.

2. Steam the milk until it reaches 55-62°C (130-145°F) with a fine, velvety microfoam texture.

3. Pour the milk gently over the espresso, maintaining the microfoam consistency.

4. Serve immediately for a balanced, rich coffee experience.

Latte Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 shot of espresso

• 180ml steamed milk

• Light milk foam

Steps:

1. Brew espresso and pour into a large cup.

2. Steam the milk to create a velvety texture.

3. Pour steamed milk slowly over espresso, creating a creamy blend.

4. Add a thin layer of foam on top.

5. Optional: Create latte art using a milk frother.

Which One is Stronger?

When comparing Flat White vs. Latte, the Flat White has a stronger espresso taste due to its higher espresso-to-milk ratio and finely textured microfoam.

•  Flat White Strength: The smaller serving size and microfoam consistency allow the bold espresso flavor to shine through. The velvety texture blends smoothly, enhancing the natural coffee notes.

•  Latte Strength: The larger amount of milk in a Latte creates a milder, creamier drink, which softens the espresso intensity. While the coffee flavor is still present, it is much smoother and more milk-forward than a Flat White.

Bottom Line: If you prefer a stronger coffee taste, go for a Flat White. If you enjoy a milder, creamier texture, a Latte is the better option.

Which One is Healthier?

1. Calories

• Flat White has fewer calories (~90 kcal) because it contains less milk than a Latte.

• Latte has more calories (~120 kcal) due to the larger milk volume.

Tip: If you want to cut calories, opt for skim milk, oat milk, or almond milk, or skip added syrups and sugar.

2. Caffeine

• Both drinks have the same caffeine content (~63mg per shot of espresso).

• Many Flat Whites are made with a double shot (~126mg caffeine), making them stronger and more energizing.

Tip: Need more caffeine? Simply ask for a double shot in either drink!

3. Milk Content

• Flat White uses less milk, which makes it a better option for those watching their dairy intake.

• Latte has more milk, making it creamier but slightly higher in calories.

Tip: If you prefer a creamier texture with fewer calories, opt for unsweetened plant-based milk like oat or almond milk.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Which is better for latte art?

A: The Flat White is better for detailed latte art because of its fine microfoam texture. This allows baristas to create precise, intricate designs such as tulips, hearts, and rosettas.

Q: Can I make these drinks without an espresso machine?

A: Yes! While an espresso machine is ideal, you can make both drinks at home using:

•  A Moka Pot or AeroPress for strong coffee similar to espresso.

•  A handheld frother, French press, or whisk to manually froth milk.

Tip: To create the best microfoam at home, heat the milk to 150°F (65°C) and froth until smooth and velvety.

Q: Can I use plant-based milk?

A: Absolutely! The best alternatives for steaming and frothing include:

•  Oat Milk – The best choice for both Flat Whites and Lattes due to its creamy, smooth texture.

•  Almond Milk – A great option for Lattes, adding a light, nutty flavor.

•  Soy Milk – Froths well and works for both drinks, offering a rich and creamy consistency.

Tip: Look for barista edition plant-based milks to get the best frothing results!

Q: Which drink has more caffeine?

A: Both drinks have the same caffeine content (~63mg per single espresso shot). However, since many Flat Whites use a double shot (~126mg caffeine), they often have a stronger caffeine kick than a standard Latte.

Tip: If you want more caffeine, ask for a double shot in either drink for an extra boost!

Elevate Your Flat White & Latte Experience with Bazan Coffee

At Bazan Coffee, we believe that the foundation of an exceptional flat white or latte lies in high-quality coffee beans. The interplay between bold espresso and creamy milk requires a carefully selected coffee that enhances both texture and flavor.

Unlike mass-produced brands, Bazan Coffee prioritizes quality, carefully sourcing and roasting beans to bring out their natural complexity. Whether you enjoy the intense depth of a flat white, the smooth silkiness of a latte, or something in between, our Vietnamese Fine Robusta and high-altitude Arabica ensure the best coffee experience.

Brew It with Too Strong: Vietnam’s Bold Robusta

Too Strong is 100% Vietnamese Robusta from Đắk Lắk, dark roasted to stand up to milk and ice. It carries roughly twice the caffeine of a typical arabica blend (about 2.2–2.7%), with notes of chocolate, caramel and warm toast and none of the burnt, bitter bite.

• Made for milk: built for cà phê sữa đá, lattes and iced coffee.
• Brew it your way: phin filter, espresso machine, French press or paper filter.
• Fresh from the farm: roasted date printed on every bag.

Shop Too Strong Dark Roast →