Flat White, Cappuccino, Latte: What’s the Real Difference?
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It’s increasingly challenging to know the what you are ordering when visiting a coffee shop. Some cafes offer only one flat white size, while others provide three. You also might end up with a cappuccino that’s very foamy or a smaller drink with not too much foam. So, what is the difference between a flat white, cappuccino and latte? It all comes down to the ratio and foam level.
What is a Latte?
The latte has become a very popular espresso drink in North America and is available in various sizes. You can usually find it between 235ml (8oz) and 475ml (16oz). Each size includes a double shot of espresso, steamed milk, and a layer of milk foam. It’s a great choice for those who prefer a higher ratio of milk to espresso, resulting in a milky and smooth drink.
What is a Cappuccino?
The cappuccino, one of the most recognizable espresso beverages, traditionally consists of 180ml (6oz) of equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and foam. This results in a small yet very foamy drink. In modern coffee shops, you’ll often find it served in a 235ml (8oz) mug with a double shot of espresso and a thick layer of microfoam. Many modern coffee shops prioritize latte art, so you won’t get an excessive amount of foam, but rather something slightly foamier than a latte.
What is a Flat White?
The flat white was created to have a drink that was not as foamy as a cappuccino but also not as milky as a latte. To achieve this, the main components of a flat white are a double shot of espresso for a bold coffee flavour and a thin layer of milk foam to not be as foamy as a cappuccino. While there are many places that serve a flat white in multiple sizes, it is typically served in an 180ml (6oz) cup.
It can easily be confusing when you walk into a coffee shop and look at the menu. Use this blog as a guideline the next time you go to order at a local coffee shop. If all else fails, you can always ask the barista to help you find the perfect drink for you.
