An iced flat white is a delightful blend of bold espresso and creamy milk served over ice. This refreshing coffee drink is perfect for hot days or when you crave a cool, invigorating beverage. With its smooth texture and rich coffee flavor, the iced flat white has become a favorite in cafes around the world. It’s easy to make at home, offering a café-quality experience in the comfort of your own kitchen.
What is an Iced Flat White?
An iced flat white is a chilled coffee drink made with a double shot of espresso and cold milk served over ice. It’s a variation of the traditional flat white, which originated in Australia and New Zealand. Unlike an iced latte, which uses more milk and less espresso, an iced flat white has a stronger coffee flavor due to the higher espresso-to-milk ratio.
Key characteristics of an iced flat white include:
- Smooth Texture: The combination of espresso and milk creates a creamy, smooth drink.
- Strong Coffee Flavor: The double shot of espresso ensures a robust coffee taste.
- Velvety Milk: Cold milk, often steamed before cooling, adds a rich, velvety texture that complements the espresso perfectly.
How to Make an Iced Flat White
1
servings5
minutes150
kcalA simple and refreshing iced coffee drink made with a double shot of espresso and cold milk over ice.
Ingredients
2 shots of espresso
1 cup cold milk (whole, skim, or any preferred milk alternative)
Ice cubes
Directions
- Brew two shots of espresso using an espresso machine.
- Fill a glass with ice cubes.
- Pour the freshly brewed espresso over the ice.
- Slowly add cold milk to the glass, filling it to the top.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
Equipment
Notes
- Fresh Espresso: Always use freshly brewed espresso for the richest and most authentic flavor. Stale or old espresso can taste bitter and dull.
- Milk Choices: Experiment with different types of milk to find your preferred taste and texture. Whole milk gives a creamy, full-bodied texture, while skim milk offers a lighter option. Non-dairy alternatives like almond, soy, oat, or coconut milk can add unique flavors and textures.
- Espresso Substitutes: If you don’t have an espresso machine, you can use strong brewed coffee as a substitute. Use a French press or a stovetop Moka pot to brew concentrated coffee. While the flavor won’t be exactly the same, it will still be delicious.
- Sweeteners and Flavors: If you prefer a sweeter drink, add a simple syrup or flavored syrup to taste. Vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut syrups can add an extra layer of flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve your iced flat white in a clear glass to showcase its beautiful layers. You can also garnish with a light dusting of cocoa powder or a few coffee beans for a decorative touch.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 150kcal
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 6g
Conclusion
The iced flat white is a simple yet refreshing coffee drink that’s perfect for any time of day. With its smooth texture, strong coffee flavor, and creamy milk, it’s a delightful treat that’s easy to make at home. Give it a try and enjoy a café-quality beverage without leaving your kitchen. We’d love to hear about your experience and any creative variations you come up with. Share your thoughts and tips with us!
Frequently Asked Questions about Iced Flat White
Q: Can I use regular brewed coffee instead of espresso?
A: While espresso is ideal for an iced flat white due to its strong flavor and creamy consistency, you can use strong brewed coffee as a substitute. The flavor might be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.
Q: What type of milk works best for an iced flat white?
A: Whole milk is commonly used for its creamy texture, but you can use any milk you prefer. Skim milk, almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, and coconut milk are all good options. Each type of milk will add its own unique flavor and texture to the drink.
Q: How can I make my iced flat white sweeter?
A: You can add simple syrup, flavored syrups (such as vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut), or sweetened condensed milk to taste. Add the sweetener to the espresso before mixing it with the milk and ice for even distribution.
Q: Can I make an iced flat white without an espresso machine?
A: Yes, you can use a French press or a stovetop Moka pot to make a strong, concentrated coffee that can substitute for espresso. The flavor will be slightly different but still enjoyable.
Q: What kind of ice should I use?
A: Use fresh, clean ice made from filtered water for the best taste. Standard ice cubes work well, but you can also use coffee ice cubes (frozen coffee) to prevent dilution as the ice melts.
Q: How can I make a frothy iced flat white?
A: For a frothy texture, use a milk frother to froth the cold milk before adding it to the glass. This will give your iced flat white a creamier, more luxurious texture.
Q: Can I prepare an iced flat white in advance?
A: It’s best to prepare and enjoy an iced flat white immediately for the freshest flavor. However, you can brew the espresso in advance and chill it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to make the drink. Add the ice and milk just before serving.
Q: How many calories are in an iced flat white?
A: An iced flat white typically has around 150 calories per serving. The exact number can vary depending on the type and amount of milk and any added sweeteners.
Q: Can I make a decaf iced flat white?
A: Absolutely! Simply use decaffeinated espresso or strong brewed decaf coffee to make a decaf iced flat white.
Q: What are some flavor variations I can try?
A: Experiment with different flavored syrups, such as vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut. You can also add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for a spiced twist. For a richer taste, try adding a splash of chocolate syrup or a drizzle of honey.
