Flat White:
The Australian-New Zealand coffee dream

The Flat White—a coffee that took the world by storm. But where does the origin of this trendy drink with velvety-creamy microfoam and intense espresso aroma lie? Discover the history of the Flat White and learn how easy it is to prepare it at home with Nespresso.

Table of Content

1. What is a Flat White?
2. The mystery of the Flat White's origin
3. Step-by-step guide to preparation with Nespresso
4. Nespresso capsules for your Flat White
5. Flat White in comparison: Cappuccino, Latte & more
6. Frequently asked questions about the Flat White

What is a Flat White?

Imagine a double espresso, approximately 80 ml, forming the base. Over it is poured not just milk foam but fine-pored "microfoam"—around 70-80 ml. This microfoam is the heart of Flat White coffee: velvety-creamy, with tiny bubbles that blend perfectly with the espresso. The result? An approximately 150-160 ml flavorful experience, distinguished by the intense aroma of espresso and the silky texture of microfoam.

A Flat White is a small masterpiece—not only in taste but also visually, as the microfoam is perfect for Latte Art. Latte Art is the creative design of the milk surface with motifs like flowers, leaves, or hearts.

The Mystery of the Origin of the Flat White

The Flat White—a coffee drink renowned worldwide for its intense flavor and velvety-smooth milk texture. Its origin remains shrouded in mystery, passionately debated in Australia and New Zealand, much like the question of Baklava's origin in Greece and Turkey. Both New Zealand and Australia claim to have invented it and offer a range of fascinating creation stories.

The New Zealand Trail: Failed Foaming and Microfoam
A frequently cited anecdote tells of a barista in New Zealand during the 1980s or early 90s who struggled to foam low-fat milk. The result, a less frothy, denser milk texture, is said to have been served and named "Flat White." The name Derek Townsend and his now-closed café DKD in Auckland often appear in this context.

The Australian Coffee: Special Milk and Quick Enjoyment
Another theory references Australian milk, which supposedly behaved differently during foaming compared to Italian milk. Allegedly, it retained coarse bubbles when overheated and over-aerated. Combined with the Australian need for a quick coffee, this supposedly led baristas to foam the milk less airily and heated. The result: a denser, silkier texture and a "flat, white coffee"—the Australian Flat White.

Double Espresso Dolce: Delightful and balanced in flavor—the perfect choice for those who prefer a gentler espresso.

Double Espresso Chiaro: With an intensity of 8, this Double Espresso offers an intense yet accessible taste.

Double Espresso Scuro: Dark, intense, and with a higher Robusta content. Notes of wood and dark chocolate lend this Doppio its powerful character.

ORIGINAL Line – Espresso Variety for Your Taste
With the ORIGINAL system, you can also create a Flat White. Simply select two of your favorite espresso capsules. Combined with milk, our Barista Creations are particularly suitable, such as Chiaro (milder) or Scuro (more intense). This allows you to vary depending on your mood and taste and perfect your very own Flat White. Try different intensities and flavors to find your favorite!

For a refreshing cool-down on hot days, the Iced Flat White is perfect. Combine the double espresso with cold milk and ice cubes. Simply place 3 Nespresso ice cubes into a Gran Lungo glass and extract your chosen double espresso over them. Finally, top off the glass with cold frothed milk. Cheers to enjoying coffee in a whole new way!

Flat White in Comparison: Cappuccino, Latte & More

Flat White vs. Cappuccino
The Flat White stands out with its "microfoam," a fine-pored, velvety milk foam. This subtle difference in milk texture is crucial to the Flat White experience. Seeking creamy indulgence with intense coffee flavor? Then the Flat White is your choice! Compared to the Cappuccino, the Flat White features a double espresso—for double enjoyment.

Flat White vs. Latte Macchiato
The comparison between Flat White and Latte Macchiato reveals the distinctive difference in milk foam. The Latte Macchiato has significantly more milk and thicker foam, while the Flat White impresses with its dense microfoam and more intense coffee flavor.

Flat White vs. Milchkaffee
Milchkaffee is generally larger and has a milder coffee taste. In contrast, the Flat White offers a concentrated flavor experience.

Flat White vs. Espresso Macchiato
An Espresso Macchiato is even smaller and more concentrated than a Flat White. The focus is clearly on the espresso, which is only topped with a touch of milk foam. The Flat White strikes the perfect balance between strong coffee and creamy microfoam. By the way, Espresso Macchiato is the only coffee specialty you can order after 11 in Italy without being seen as a tourist.