How to Make a Café-Style Flat White at Home

The flat white has become a favourite for coffee drinkers who want the strength of espresso with the smoothness of steamed milk. It is smaller and more coffee-forward than a typical latte, with a thin layer of silky microfoam rather than a large cap of froth.

Making one at home comes down to two parts: a balanced double espresso and properly textured milk. Start with a versatile espresso coffee such as the No Fuss Blend, then follow the method below to bring everything together.

What Is a Flat White?

A flat white is normally made with a double espresso and steamed milk in a cup of approximately 160 to 180 millilitres. Its smaller size helps the coffee remain prominent, while the fine microfoam creates a smooth, creamy texture.

The word “flat” does not mean the drink has no foam. It means the foam is integrated into the milk rather than sitting as a thick, dry layer on top. When the milk is prepared well, it should look glossy and pour almost like wet paint.

What You Will Need

• An espresso machine with a steam wand
• A coffee grinder
• 18 grams of coffee
• Approximately 150 millilitres of cold milk
• A small stainless-steel milk jug
• A 160 to 180 millilitre cup
• Digital scales and a timer

Whole milk is usually the easiest option for creating a rich texture, but many barista-style oat and alternative milks can also work well. Whatever you use, begin with cold milk and a cold jug so you have enough time to build texture before it becomes too hot.

Step One: Pull the Espresso

Use 18 grams of finely ground coffee and aim for approximately 36 grams of espresso in 25 to 30 seconds. This gives you a strong base that can hold its flavour once the milk is added.

If the espresso runs too quickly, make the grind finer. If it pours very slowly, make the grind coarser. Taste the shot before adding milk whenever possible. Milk can soften imperfections, but a better espresso will always make a better flat white.

Step Two: Texture the Milk

1. Pour cold milk into the jug, filling it to just below the base of the spout.
2. Purge the steam wand briefly to remove condensed water.
3. Place the steam tip just beneath the surface of the milk, slightly off-centre.
4. Turn on the steam fully. You should hear a gentle paper-tearing sound as a small amount of air enters the milk.
5. After a few seconds, raise the jug slightly so the tip sits deeper and creates a rolling whirlpool.
6. Continue heating until the jug feels hot but still manageable to touch, ideally around 60 to 65°C.
7. Turn off the steam before removing the wand, then wipe and purge it immediately.

The milk should increase in volume only slightly. Large bubbles mean too much air has been added. Tap the jug gently on the counter to remove any surface bubbles, then swirl it until the milk looks smooth and reflective.

Step Three: Pour the Flat White

Swirl the espresso and the milk jug immediately before pouring. Begin from slightly higher above the cup so the milk moves underneath the crema. As the cup fills, bring the jug closer to the surface and pour into the centre.

Latte art is optional. A heart on top is satisfying, but the important part is that the milk and coffee are evenly combined. Even without a pattern, glossy milk and a controlled pour will create the right texture.

Common Flat White Problems

The drink tastes too milky: Use a smaller cup, reduce the amount of milk or strengthen the espresso recipe slightly.

The milk is full of bubbles: Add less air and focus on creating a stronger whirlpool. Keep the steam tip close to the surface rather than lifting it completely out.

The milk tastes flat or cooked: It may be overheated. Stop steaming sooner and use a thermometer while learning.

The coffee tastes harsh: Check the espresso before blaming the milk. Adjust the grind and extraction until the base tastes balanced.

Can You Make a Decaf Flat White?

Absolutely. Use the same espresso and milk method with Nightwatchman Decaf. It is a useful option for an evening flat white or for anyone who enjoys the ritual and flavour of coffee while reducing caffeine.

Your Flat White, Your Way

The best flat white is the one that suits your taste. Some people prefer a smaller, stronger drink; others like a little more milk. Keep the espresso recipe consistent, practise adding only a small amount of air and stop steaming before the milk becomes too hot.

No Worries Bru is built around making proper coffee feel approachable rather than complicated. You can learn more about that idea on Our Story. With a little practice, your morning flat white can become one of the easiest wins of the day.