A flat white has two ingredients. Espresso. Milk. Done a good espresso? Done a good milk? Good. Now it's time to bring them together.
Start With A Swirl
Before you pour, give your espresso a gentle swirl. Then give your milk a swirl too. You're looking for smooth, glossy milk that moves as one, not foam sitting on top.
High To Mix
Start pouring from slightly above the cup. This gives the milk enough height to mix through the espresso instead of sitting on top like a small dairy beret. Don't overthink it. You're simply bringing the espresso and milk together.
Low To Finish
As the cup fills, bring the jug closer to the surface and increase the flow slightly. High to mix. Low to finish. That's the basic idea.
Don't Chase The Art
If a heart appears, congratulations. If it doesn't, you've still made a coffee. The goal isn't perfect latte art. It's a balanced flat white with silky milk and sweet espresso. The hearts can come later. For now, just focus on making a really good coffee.
