What differentiates a flat white from a latte?

A flat white is characterized by a higher ratio of coffee to milk compared to a latte. This distinction is fundamental in understanding the textures and flavors of these two popular coffee beverages. In a flat white, the espresso is typically served with a smaller volume of steamed milk, which allows the rich flavor of the coffee to be more pronounced. The milk in a flat white is micro-foamed to give it a velvety texture, while still maintaining the essence of the coffee itself.

In contrast, a latte generally has more steamed milk, resulting in a creamier beverage that softens the boldness of the espresso. The larger quantity of milk used in a latte dilutes the coffee flavor more than a flat white does.

The other options, such as higher milk content and darker roast of coffee beans, do not effectively capture the key differences between the two drinks, as they do not accurately represent the fundamental preparation and taste profiles that set a flat white apart from a latte. A thicker foam, while a feature of both, does not define the significant differences in coffee-to-milk ratios that are central to distinguishing these two beverages.