Flat white vs latte vs cappuccino - What’s the difference?

What is the difference between a Flat White and a Latte?

When comparing a flat white vs latte, the main difference lies in the milk texture and coffee intensity. A flat white contains less milk and a finer microfoam, which creates a stronger espresso flavour and a smoother, more velvety mouthfeel. A latte, on the other hand, has more steamed milk and a slightly thicker foam layer, resulting in a creamier and milder coffee.

What is the difference between a Latte and a Cappuccino?

Looking at a latte vs cappuccino, the difference comes down to milk-to-foam ratio. A latte contains more steamed milk and only a light layer of foam, making it smooth and less intense. A cappuccino uses equal parts espresso, steamed milk and foam, giving it a stronger coffee taste and a lighter, frothier texture.

A cappuccino coffee is a classic Italian espresso drink made with equal parts espresso, steamed milk and milk foam. It is typically served in a smaller cup (150 - 180 ml) to maintain the perfect balance of flavours. The foam can vary in texture, from light and airy to dense microfoam, but it always plays a key role in the cappuccino’s signature frothy top and rich, bold taste.

To prepare a cappuccino at home, begin with a freshly brewed espresso shot. Steam milk until it develops a creamy consistency with a thick foam layer. Pour the steamed milk over the espresso, then add a generous amount of foam on top. The goal is to achieve an even balance between the strong espresso and the airy milk foam. With practice and the right technique, you can recreate a café-quality cappuccino in your own kitchen.

A flat white is an espresso-based coffee that highlights the flavour of the coffee more than the milk. It is made with a double shot of espresso and a smaller amount of steamed milk, finished with a very fine layer of microfoam. Unlike a cappuccino, the foam is not thick or airy, but smooth and integrated into the milk. This creates a rich, velvety texture and a stronger coffee taste, making the flat white a favourite for those who enjoy a more intense espresso experience.

To make a flat white, brew a double shot of espresso and prepare steamed milk with a silky microfoam texture. Pour the milk gently over the espresso, ensuring the foam remains smooth and well integrated rather than thick or stiff. The typical ratio is about one-third espresso to two-thirds milk. The result should be a creamy, balanced coffee with a pronounced espresso flavour and a smooth finish.

What's a Latte Macchiato?

A latte macchiato is a layered coffee drink made with milk, espresso and foam. Unlike a latte, where milk is added to espresso, a latte macchiato starts with steamed milk, followed by a shot of espresso poured on top. This creates three distinct layers: milk at the bottom, espresso in the middle and foam on top. The flavour is milder and milkier compared to a traditional latte.

How to make your own Latte Macchiato?

To prepare a latte macchiato, first heat and froth milk until it becomes light and airy. Pour the milk into a tall glass, then slowly add a shot of espresso so it settles between the milk and foam. This creates the signature layered effect. For best results, use whole milk and a strong espresso. You can also add flavoured syrup or a light topping such as cocoa powder for extra variation.