These days, you’re as likely to find an iced coffee order on the menu of your favorite cafe as a hot one.
Whether it’s an iced flat white or an iced latte, the fantastic flavors and refreshing endings of cold-brewed coffees will surely put a smile on your face!
Quick Answer: What’s the difference between an iced flat white vs. an iced latte?
The main difference between an iced flat white and an iced latte is in the ingredients used. An iced flat white uses ristretto shots and less milk when compared to an iced latte, which uses espresso shots and more milk.
In this article, I’ll explain the components of both beverages while offering insight into their distinct flavor profiles.
By comparing elements like temperature, strength, sweetness level, and more between these two popular summertime coffee drinks, you can choose which one suits your taste buds best.
So grab yourself a chilled cup of joe, and let’s get started!
Iced flat white vs. iced latte, how do they differ?
Before getting into all the differences in-depth, you can have a look at the overview below:
| Comparison: | Iced flat white: | Iced latte: |
| Flavor notes | Robust, balanced flavor | Creamy, subtle flavor |
| Espresso? | Yes, two ristretto shots | Yes, two espresso shots |
| Milk added? | 4 ounces (120 ml) | 6 ounces (180 ml) |
| Caffeine content | 126mg of caffeine | 136mg of caffeine |
| Number of calories | 68 calories | 102 calories |
As you can see, these rather similar-looking iced coffees have quite a few differences. Let’s get into all the details below:
Which is stronger, an iced flat white or an iced latte?
When it comes to deciding between an iced flat white and an iced latte, one factor to consider is the strength of the coffee.
In general, an iced flat white will be stronger than an iced latte due to the way it is made.
An iced flat white uses ristretto shots combined with less milk than an iced latte.
By using a smaller amount of dairy and a more robust coffee base, you’ll get a much more concentrated flavor profile, stronger than a typical iced latte.
The difference is subtle but noticeable; if you’re looking for something with a robust kick, opting for an iced flat white may be the best choice over an iced latte.
What is the flavor difference between these drinks?
The primary flavor difference between an iced flat white and an iced latte is the strength of the coffee.
An iced flat white is usually made with ristretto shots, which are shorter in duration than a normal espresso shot and thus produce a more concentrated cup of coffee.
This makes the iced flat white stronger than an iced latte as it contains less milk to dilute its intensity.
As a result, an iced flat white will usually have more pronounced flavors, such as bitterness and acidity, compared to an iced latte due to having less milk added.
Is there a difference in milk preparation?
There is a small difference in the way milk is prepared for an iced flat white and an iced latte.
An iced flat white typically uses cold foamed milk, meaning it has been cold whipped until it forms bubbles on top; these bubbles create a creamier texture.
On the other hand, an iced latte usually doesn’t use cold foamed milk and instead adds ice cubes and espresso to a milk-filled glass.
Additionally, some people may find that adding foam on top of their beverage improves taste as foam can help capture subtle flavor notes within coffee better than regular cooled milk can.
Remember that some coffee shops like to cold foam the milk for their lattes. I like to prepare my iced lattes with cold foam when at home.
However, big coffee chains like Starbucks don’t cold foam their milk for iced lattes.
If you’re looking for the best cold foam makers at home, check out this article!
How many calories are in these iced coffees?
Knowing how many calories are in your favorite iced coffee drinks is important!
While your exact calorie count will depend on the specific ingredients in each beverage, here is a general overview of these delicious coffees:
- Iced flat white: If you’re looking for a low-calorie iced coffee option, an iced flat white may be the right choice. An iced flat white made with whole milk contains around 68 calories. If you opt for skim milk instead, this number drops to just 40 calories!
- Iced latte: For those seeking more indulgence and creaminess in their espresso-based beverage, an iced latte can provide just that! When made with whole milk, this drink has around 102 calories – perfect if you want something slightly more decadent.
Switching up your dairy options or opting for non-dairy milk like coconut or almond will also have a varying impact on the final calorie count of your order.
Overall, it’s always best to double-check with your barista about what goes into your chosen beverage before consumption to make informed decisions regarding nutrition.
The best part about making one of these delicious coffees at home is that you have full control over the type of milk to use, the amount of sweeteners to add, and so much more!
Is there a difference in the caffeine content?
Regarding the caffeine content of your favorite coffee beverages, there is a slight difference between an iced flat white and an iced latte.
An iced flat white contains around 126mg of caffeine per cup, while an iced latte has slightly more at 136mg per cup.
When you compare this to a regular 8-ounce serving of brewed coffee with 80-100mg of caffeine, both of these drinks will surely give you the boost needed!
Ultimately, if you’re looking for that extra pick-me-up during your work day, opt for the iced flat white instead!
Which is better, an iced flat white or an iced latte?
That really depends on the preference of the person enjoying the beverage!
An iced flat white and an iced latte offer different flavor profiles that can appeal to various palates.
If you’re not quite sure which would fit you the best, I suggest the following:
- An iced flat white is ideal for those who prefer a stronger coffee flavor and a bit more caffeine.
- An iced latte offers milder coffee notes but is still full-bodied enough to satisfy your caffeine craving, so it’s perfect for those who like milder coffee.
I usually enjoy an iced flat white a bit more, as I prefer the more robust flavor of the ristretto shots, along with a bit less milk.
Ultimately, both iced coffees provide a quick caffeine fix on hot summer days – so choose whatever suits your tastebuds best!
Related coffee comparison articles
Are you wondering how the iced flat white and iced latte compare to other coffees?
Great! Check out the articles below for more in-depth coffee comparisons:
- Iced Cappuccino vs. Iced Latte
- Iced Latte vs. Iced Macchiato
- Iced Espresso vs. Iced Latte
- Iced Coffee vs. Iced Latte
- Iced Latte vs. Iced Mocha
And to compare more coffees, visit the coffee comparison hub!
Conclusion
Overall, the iced flat white and iced latte are two entirely different types of coffee drinks that have their own unique flavor profile.
The iced flat white produces a stronger taste, while the iced latte produces a sweeter one.
The iced flat white is for those who prefer the full-bodied taste of ristretto, while the iced latte is for those who favor something sweeter.
Therefore, it all comes down to personal preference when choosing between these two drinks.
In the end, make sure you intend to savor and enjoy whichever one you pick.
After all, coffee time can be a great way to start or end your day – so make sure you take advantage of it with whatever treat suits you best!
