Why Zhukou Cups Are Perfect for Latte Art | Best Coffee Cup for Flat White

 When you’re out visiting cafés, have you noticed that many of them now prefer using zhukou cups for milk-based drinks? They’re especially popular for flat whites. Whether in terms of volume or latte art control, zhukou cups just seem to work beautifully. As a result, the term “zhukou cup” has quickly become a hot search keyword in online shopping.

Simply put, the defining characteristics of a zhukou cup are that it’s short, sturdy, and compact. The walls usually go straight up or taper slightly inward at the rim. Most are made of ceramic with relatively thick walls. Visually, they look squat and charming—almost like a small barrel. The walls are nearly vertical, the base is wide, and the opening is generous. These are cups you naturally cradle in your hands, and they’re essentially designed as professional vessels for showcasing milk drinks with latte art.

So why is this shape such a perfect match for milk coffee? Let’s break it down. If you’re currently debating which cup to use for practicing latte art, a zhukou cup is definitely worth considering. The reason it works so well is that its unique design provides optimal conditions on visual, operational, and physical levels.

First, the wide, flat base of a zhukou cup is key. Once the espresso is poured in, this shape gives the milk and coffee plenty of room to integrate properly. When that initial mixing is done well, it sets a solid foundation for cleaner, more defined latte art later on.

Second, the cup walls are almost vertical, or they narrow slightly at the rim. This allows the pointed spout of the milk pitcher to get very close to the surface of the liquid, while still leaving enough room for precise movements. The walls don’t get in the way, making it easier to execute fine details. On top of that, the rim diameter is usually quite large, which gives you a broader “canvas” for latte art. The finished pattern can be displayed fully and clearly, often enhanced by just the right amount of surface tension, making the visual effect especially appealing.

Another important factor is capacity. Zhukou cups typically hold around 180–220 ml. If you’re using a double shot of espresso—about 34–40 ml—as the base, that espresso makes up a relatively high proportion of the drink. This helps produce a richer, more concentrated flavor. At the same time, the limited total volume naturally helps balance the ratio of coffee to milk. Because you’re not adding too much milk, the microfoam tends to stay dense and fluid, which is ideal for pouring. For these reasons, zhukou cups are particularly well suited to drinks like flat whites.

Most zhukou cups are made from ceramic, and their thick walls do a great job of retaining heat. They also have a reassuring weight, which makes them feel very stable in the hand. This stability is crucial for latte art, where subtle wrist control and smooth movement make all the difference. A heavier cup reduces unwanted shaking that can happen with lighter vessels. Zhukou cups also usually don’t have handles. Holding the cup directly gives you a more complete and secure grip, improving both stability and control—especially when you’re making more complex movements during the pouring and integration stages.

All things considered, zhukou cups are truly designed with milk coffee in mind. Their shape helps latte art bloom on the surface, their capacity naturally supports the ideal balance of espresso, milk, and foam, and their material and hand feel provide excellent stability and control. Whether you’re practicing latte art at home or serving drinks day to day, a zhukou cup is an excellent choice. Each one isn’t just about looking good—it’s a professional decision made to present the best possible cup of coffee.