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So what is the difference between a flat white, latte & cappuccino?

This is a question I have been asked a lot and so, thought it was time to clarify some of the queries and provide the background into espresso drink options.

 

Espresso: – Also referred to as a ‘short black’, an espresso is a 30ml extraction of coffee and should be served in a small glass or cup, with a distinct rich brown crema and served promptly once extracted.

 

Macchiato: An espresso shot with dash of milk foam (ie tea spoon). Again this drink is served in a small glass or cup

 

Long Espresso:- Also referred to as a ‘long black’, the long espress is 120ml of hot water with a 60ml (double shot) of espresso poured on top. The reason for adding the espresso shot last is so as not to disturb the crema, which is the signature of proper espresso extraction.

 

Cappuccino: – traditionally is 1/3 espresso (60ml), 1/3 textured milk (60ml) & 1/3 milk foam, dusted with chocolate powder.

Whilst very few cafes will serve a cappuccino in these proportions (because most large coffees would need at least 4 shots to keep the proportions right), this is the traditional Italian cappuccino.

 

Latte: – The latte is literally a ‘milk coffee’ and thus not as strong as a cappuccino, being made from a single espresso shot with 120ml of textured milk.

 

Piccolo:- The piccolo or piccolo latte, is a 30ml shot of espresso with 60ml of textured milk – best served in a 90ml glass.

 

Flat White: The flat white should use more heated rather textured milk, thus being more ‘flat’ than the silky micro-foam of a latte. Whilst there is conjecture over the exact ‘formula’ (the flat white only entered the market in the 1980s and is an Australian adaptation), the flat white should be stronger than a latte and have only a slight trace of foamy milk on top (just enough for a touch of latte art). In practical terms, this can be achieved with 45-60ml espresso (1 1/2 -2 shots) and 120-150ml lightly textured milk.

 

As with all things coffee, there will be a few different points of view on a few of these… however, my purpose in putting together this article was to show that there is a clear difference between the types of drinks, even if their individual interpretation varies.

For this purpose, I trust the info was useful and that your next coffee is a great experience. 

 

Feel free to comment if you have any feedback or have something to share on this topic…