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flat white recipe

Flat White Recipe (Step-By-Step Guide)

Here's how you can make this smooth, velvety coffee drink at home, with detailed steps and a breakdown of the necessary ingredients and equipment.
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Total Time 3 minutes

Equipment

  • Espresso Machine with a Steam Wand:
  • Coffee Grinder:
  • Milk jug (for steaming)
  • Coffee cup (preferably a flat white cup, which holds about 160-200 ml)

Ingredients
  

  • Freshly ground coffee for espresso (about 18 grams)
  • Cold milk (preferably whole or 2% for better texture, about 150 ml)

Instructions
 

  • Grind the Coffee: Grind your coffee beans to a fine espresso grind. You'll need about 18 grams of coffee for a double shot.
  • Prepare the Espresso: Tamp the ground coffee into your espresso machine's portafilter. Ensure it's packed evenly to extract evenly. Pull a double shot of espresso directly into your coffee cup.
  • Steam the Milk: While the espresso brews, pour cold milk into your milk jug up to the bottom of the spout, which usually provides just the right amount.
    Use the steam wand of your espresso machine to steam the milk until it has increased in volume by about one-third and has a smooth, glossy texture with tiny, fine bubbles.
    The ideal temperature is around 60-65 degrees Celsius (140-149 degrees Fahrenheit), where the milk is hot to the touch but not scalding.
  • Combine and Serve: Pour the steamed milk over the espresso from a low height for a smoother blend, then slightly raise the jug for the last few drops to create a small, white dot on top.
    Then, serve immediately to enjoy the ultimate texture and warmth.

Video

Notes

Remember, the harmony between strong espresso and silky, subtly sweet milk is the key to a great flat white.
With this recipe, you can master a barista-level flat white right in your own kitchen. Enjoy your handcrafted beverage!