When you visit your local coffee shop or cafe, have you ever noticed how many different types of drinks they sell? Of the many variations, latte and flat white are the top choices for some people.
Both are made from a combination of espresso and milk. However, there are essential differences, such as the flavor characteristics, that make each one unique.
By understanding the difference between a latte and a flat white, you can more easily decide which type of coffee suits your taste buds best. Let’s discover the distinctions between the two and help you choose the coffee that fits your tastes and needs!
Table of Contents
What Is Latte?
Café latte or latte is a type of milk-based coffee drink. The term latte itself comes from Italy, which means milk. The composition of this drink includes an espresso shot, steamed milk, and milk foam. This makes it have a smooth, creamy, and slightly sweet flavor.
Some of you may have heard of latte art. Here, the barista will draw a pattern on top of the milk foam-adding aesthetic value and a more exclusive coffee experience.
A latte is not the strongest coffee drink because the milk flavor is more dominant than the espresso. It’s best to choose espresso or Ristretto if you want a strong, full-bodied coffee flavor.
Also read: Cappuccino vs Latte: What’s The Difference Between Them?
Some Types of Latte
Several types of lattes developed, all according to the tastes and creativity of baristas globally. Latte variations include vanilla latte, matcha latte, and caramel latte.
1. Vanilla Latte
First up is the vanilla latte with the added flavor of vanilla syrup. The flavor is slightly sweet and the aroma resembles a distinctive vanilla. This type of latte is very popular if you want a coffee drink that tastes smooth and sweet.
2. Matcha Latte
You can use matcha powder as an equally interesting option for an espresso. Matcha lattes are popular if you love the flavor of Japanese green tea. The main element still uses steamed milk to produce a smooth drink rich in antioxidants.
3. Caramel Latte
A caramel latte drink combines an espresso shot, steamed milk, and caramel syrup. The sweetness of the caramel adds a unique flavor, making it a favorite at many cafes.
Also read: Between Flat White vs Cappuccino: Which One Is The Best?
What Is Flat White?
Meanwhile, flat white is a coffee drink from Australia and New Zealand. It combines espresso with microfoam and steamed milk that is smoother and creamier.
Many refer to a flat white as a foam-less version of a latte. Flat whites have a thinner layer of milk foam – unlike lattes – so the texture is soft and the coffee flavor is more dominant.
Some people, including Australians, are fond of flat white coffee because its brewing technique reflects a relaxed yet detail-oriented lifestyle. It has been called a drink that blends the European espresso tradition and Australia’s love for milk.
Some Types of Flat White
There are several variants of flat white that you can try one by one. Here are some of them:
1. Oat Milk Flat White
This variation uses oat milk instead of regular milk, making it quite popular as a vegan-friendly or lactose-intolerant alternative. Thanks to the added element of oat milk, this drink has a naturally sweet flavor and creamy texture.
2. Almond Milk Flat White
Similar to the previous one, this drink uses almond milk as an alternative ingredient. This adds a distinctive nutty flavor profile and is lighter than cow’s milk.
3. Ristretto Flat White
Ever heard of Ristretto? It’s another espresso variation that’s more intense and rich in flavor. When using it instead of espresso, your flat white tastes more intense.
The Difference Between Latte vs Flat White
When differentiating latte vs flat white, you must compare them based on the following factors: flavor, base, milk ratio, caffeine content, portion size, and calories.
1. Taste
Lattes have a smoother and creamier taste than flat whites. This is because the amount of milk is higher than the amount of espresso
Meanwhile, the amount of espresso in a flat white is higher, so the flavor is intense, plus the milk is steamed into microfoam.
2. Base
Both latte and flat white use espresso shots as the base. However, the flat white is made with a double shot of espresso so the flavor is stronger and more intense.
3. Milk Ratio
The next distinguishing factor is the ratio of milk to coffee. As explained above, a latte has a higher milk-to-espresso ratio, resulting in a milder taste. Meanwhile, a flat white contains less milk and features a smooth microfoam texture.
4. Caffeine Content
The caffeine content of flat whites is higher as they are mostly made with a double shot of espresso. On the other hand, latte drinks are lighter as the milk element dominates them.
5. Portion Size
If you notice, flat whites are usually served in small cups, around 5-6 oz. This differs from the latte served with a larger 8-12 oz cup.
6. Calories
Due to the higher milk content, lattes contain more calories than flat whites. This number will increase if syrups or other added sweeteners are used!
Also read: Macchiato vs Cappuccino: Know The 7 Differences Between Them
Which Is Right For You? Latte vs Flat White
To choose between a latte and a flat white, you must tailor it to your preferences or specific situation. Here are three factors to consider:
- Taste Preference: For those who prefer a smooth and creamy coffee, consider choosing a latte. Meanwhile, a flat white could be the perfect choice if you prefer a rich and intense coffee.
- Caffeine Needs: If you need a coffee high in caffeine, we recommend ordering a flat white made with a double shot of espresso.
- Caloric Intake: Finally, for a calorie comparison, choose a flat white if you want a low-calorie coffee.
Also read: What Is Blonde Espresso: Is It Different from The Regular One?
Choose Coffee That Suits Your Lifestyle!
When comparing latte vs flat white, both are special in their characteristics. The latte excels in its smooth taste while the flat white is more suitable for fans of strong-tasting coffee.
The coffee experience will be perfect with selected coffee beans. To make your own latte or flat white at home, choose premium Indonesian beans found at FnB Coffee!
Let’s explore the wide variety of premium Indonesian coffee available at FnB Coffee! From Arabica and Robusta to Specialty coffees, they all offer unique flavor and aroma profiles. You can even explore each to create modern coffee beverages that taste just right!
What are you waiting for? Head over to FnB Coffee’s website to discover some of our best-selling Indonesian coffee beans that you can turn into your favorite cup of coffee!
