Sydney-Style Flat White Coffee with Velvety Microfoam
A smooth and balanced flat white espresso drink featuring rich Australian coffee culture, topped with a delicate layer of velvety microfoam. This Australian-inspired recipe, ready in about 10 minutes, brings together freshly ground espresso coffee beans, whole milk for a refreshing, crowd-pleasing drink — a bright, easy pour for parties, gatherings, or any warm-weather afternoon when you want something festive without alcohol-only options. Each serving lands at about 130 calories and feeds 1, so it works for entertaining, brunch, or a non-alcoholic option at the bar cart. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 18 g freshly ground espresso coffee beans
- 6 oz (180 ml) whole milk
The coffee makers we’d brew this with → Best Coffee Makers in 2026: Top Picks + Buying Guide
Instructions
- Step 1: Grind 18 g of espresso beans to a fine consistency suitable for espresso extraction. Tamp evenly and insert into a preheated espresso machine portafilter.
- Step 2: Brew a double shot of espresso (about 2 oz) directly into a 6 oz cup, extracting for 25-30 seconds until rich and aromatic.
- Step 3: Meanwhile, steam 6 oz (180 ml) whole milk using the espresso machine’s steam wand, positioning the wand just below the surface to create microfoam; heat milk to 140°F (60°C) with a glossy, velvety texture.
- Step 4: Pour the steamed milk gently over the espresso, starting high to mix and finishing low to create a smooth, uniform layer of microfoam about 1/4 inch thick on top.
- Step 5: Serve immediately, enjoying the signature creamy yet strong flat white experience.





