Everyone has heard of a latte and flat white before, in fact, we’d hedge our bets and say that you regularly order one of the two. However, have you ever wondered how they’re made? Moreover, have you thought of the possible differences between a latte vs. flat white?
In this article, we’ll discuss what makes a latte and flat white different from each other and provide you with some detailed information about the coffee you love.
Latte
A latte is a popular espresso-based coffee drink that is made with steamed milk and espresso. It is a creamy and smooth drink that is typically enjoyed in the morning or as an afternoon pick-me-up.
The composition of a latte typically includes:
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Espresso: The foundation of a latte is one or two shots of espresso, which are extracted from finely ground coffee beans under high pressure using an espresso machine.
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Steamed milk: The espresso shots are then mixed with steamed milk, which is heated to approximately 150°F (65°C) using a steam wand on the espresso machine. The milk is frothed to create a creamy texture and is poured over the espresso shots.
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Optional flavorings: Lattes can be flavored with a variety of syrups, such as vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut, to add sweetness and depth to the drink.
The consistency of a latte is creamy and smooth, with a thin layer of frothed milk on top. The
milk in a latte is typically steamed to a lighter, frothier texture than that of a flat white, which creates a thicker layer of foam on top of the drink.
The taste of a latte is characterized by the combination of rich, bold espresso and creamy, sweet milk. The espresso provides a strong, slightly bitter flavor that is balanced by the sweetness and creaminess of the steamed milk. The addition of flavored syrups can add extra sweetness and complexity to the drink.
Overall, a latte is a satisfying and indulgent coffee drink that is perfect for those who enjoy a balance of strong coffee and creamy milk.
Flat White
A flat white is a popular espresso-based coffee drink that originated in Australia or New Zealand, and is now enjoyed around the world. It is made with two shots of espresso and a small amount of steamed milk, creating a strong and smooth coffee experience.
The name "flat white" refers to the fact that the milk used in the drink is steamed to a velvety, microfoam texture, which creates a smooth, flat surface on top of the coffee. This is in contrast to other milk-based espresso drinks, such as lattes and cappuccinos, which have a layer of froth on top.
The unique texture of the milk in a flat white is achieved through a specific steaming technique, which involves heating the milk to approximately 150°F (65°C) using a steam wand on the espresso machine. The milk is steamed to a velvety, microfoam texture, which gives the drink a smooth, creamy mouthfeel.
Overall, a flat white is a strong and smooth coffee drink that is perfect for those who enjoy a balance of strong coffee and smooth milk. Its unique microfoam texture and strong flavor make it a popular choice for coffee lovers around the world.