What Is a Flat White? Origin, Ratio, and How It Differs from a Latte

A flat white is a small espresso-based drink (5–6 oz) made with a double ristretto or double espresso and velvety, thin microfoam — no thick foam layer. The ratio is roughly 1:2 to 1:3 espresso to milk, making it stronger and more concentrated than a latte. It sits between a cortado (1:1, very strong) and a latte (1:3–1:5, milkier) in terms of intensity. The defining feature is the microfoam: steamed to a silky, paint-like texture with minimal air — “flat” refers to this almost foam-free milk surface. ...

April 15, 2026 · 7 min · Barista At Home

What Is Cortado Coffee? Definition, Origin, and How It's Made

A cortado is a Spanish espresso drink made with equal parts espresso and warm, lightly textured milk — typically 2 oz of espresso and 2 oz of steamed milk, served in a 4 oz glass. The 1:1 ratio cuts the espresso’s acidity while keeping the coffee flavor dominant. The name “cortado” comes from the Spanish verb cortar — “to cut.” The milk cuts through the espresso’s acidity and bitterness without diluting it the way a latte would. ...

April 15, 2026 · 7 min · Barista At Home

How to Make a Cortado at Home: Recipe and Technique

A cortado is equal parts espresso and warm steamed milk — typically 2oz of espresso topped with 2oz of lightly textured milk. It is the simplest milk-based espresso drink to make at home and one of the best ways to taste your espresso clearly while taking the edge off acidity. Cortado Recipe Component Amount Espresso 2oz (a double shot, ~36g) Steamed milk 2oz (60ml) Foam Minimal — just a thin layer Serving glass 4oz / 120ml cortado glass or small cup Total drink size: 4oz (120ml) ...

April 4, 2026 · 3 min · Barista At Home

How to Make a Flat White at Home: Recipe and Milk Technique

A flat white is a small, strong espresso drink with a thin layer of velvety microfoam — stronger than a latte, smoother than a cappuccino. It originated in Australia and New Zealand and has become one of the most popular specialty coffee drinks worldwide. The key difference from a latte is size and milk texture: a flat white uses less milk (5-6oz total drink) with very little foam, which makes the espresso flavor more prominent. ...

April 4, 2026 · 4 min · Barista At Home