How to make a flat white

Wondering how to make a flat white? This espresso-based drink is thought to have been invented in Sydney, Australia, and can closely resemble a latte and cappuccino. Here's how we make this century's quintessential coffee using an espresso machine.

How to make a flat white

Wondering how to make a flat white? This espresso-based drink is thought to have been invented in Sydney, Australia, and can closely resemble a latte and cappuccino. Here's how we make this century's quintessential coffee using an espresso machine.

Ingredients & Equipment

You will need:
tooltip icon

Don't have scales?

Aim to pull your espresso for 30 seconds.

Flat white ingredients

How to make a flat white

Wondering how to make a flat white? This espresso-based drink is thought to have been invented in Sydney, Australia, and can closely resemble a latte and cappuccino. Here's how we make this century's quintessential coffee using an espresso machine.

You will need:
Flat white ingredients
tooltip icon

Don't have scales?

Aim to pull your espresso for 30 seconds.

Ingredients
Recipe
Flat white ingredients
tooltip icon

Don't have scales?

Aim to pull your espresso for 30 seconds.

You will need:
Step 1

Make sure your machine is clean and free from leftover coffee.

Step 2

Grind your coffee fine.

Step 3

Fill your basket with 18g coffee. If you don’t have scales, aim to fill the basket to the top.

Step 4

Make sure your coffee is distributed evenly in the basket. If you don’t have a distribution tool, tap the side of the portafilter.

Step 5

Use your tamper to apply pressure to the coffee.

Step 6

Purge your espresso machine.

Step 7

Insert your portafilter into the group head of your machine.

Step 8

Put your cup on the scales and underneath where the water falls.

Step 9

Start the water flow.

Step 10

Keep this flowing until you have 36ml (36g) of espresso. If you don’t have scales, aim to pull your espresso for 30 seconds.

Step 11

Purge your steam wand.

Step 12

Fill your milk jug with around 120ml of milk.

Step 13

Tilt your milk jug and put the steam wand just below the surface of the milk.

Step 14

Turn your steam wand on and heat your milk until the jug is hot to the touch.

Step 15

Tap the bottom of the jug on a counter until all the bubbles have gone. The milk should look thick and glossy.

Step 16

Hold your mug at a slight angle and pour a slow, thin stream of milk over your espresso.

Step 17

Wipe your steam wand and purge.

Step 18

Enjoy your flat white.

Discover more brew guides

From lattes to flat whites we’ve got you covered

Discover more brew guides

From lattes to flat whites we’ve got you covered

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