Save to Pinterest A bold and unconventional latte that blends the subtle sweetness of caramelized onions with rich espresso and creamy milk. This avant-garde beverage offers a savory twist on the classic coffee drink, perfect for adventurous palates seeking new flavor frontiers.
I was initially skeptical about adding onion to my morning latte, but the caramelized base transforms the cup into something utterly unique and memorable. Each sip plays with my expectations of what coffee can be.
Ingredients
- Yellow onion: 1 small, thinly sliced
- Unsalted butter: 1 tablespoon
- Granulated sugar: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt: Pinch
- Espresso: 2 shots (60 ml), freshly brewed
- Whole milk (or oat milk): 300 ml
- Honey or maple syrup: 1 teaspoon, optional
Instructions
- Prepare the onion base:
- In a small skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Add the sliced onion, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply caramelized and golden, about 12–15 minutes. Do not rush this step—low and slow yields the best flavor.
- Blend the caramelized onions:
- Transfer the caramelized onions and any pan juices to a blender. Add 2 tablespoons of milk and blend until completely smooth. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve to ensure a silky texture.
- Make the latte:
- Brew 2 shots of espresso and divide evenly between two cups. Add 1 tablespoon of the strained onion purée to each cup, stirring well to combine.
- Froth the milk:
- Heat the remaining milk until steaming, then froth using a milk frother or whisk until creamy and foamy.
- Assemble:
- Pour the frothed milk over the espresso-onion mixture in each cup. Sweeten with honey or maple syrup if desired. Gently stir and serve immediately.
Save to Pinterest When my family first tasted this, there were laughs and raised eyebrows, but ultimately everyone agreed it was unexpectedly delicious. Now it makes an appearance as a special treat at weekend brunch.
Required Tools
Skillet, blender, fine-mesh sieve, espresso machine or strong coffee maker, milk frother or whisk
Allergen Information
Contains dairy. Substitute with plant-based options for dairy-free or vegan lattes. Free from gluten, eggs, and nuts.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 110. Total Fat: 4 g. Carbohydrates: 15 g. Protein: 4 g.
Save to Pinterest This onion latte is sure to spark conversation and surprise. Treat yourself to something different and enjoy each savory sip!
Common Recipe Questions
- → What flavor profile does this latte offer?
This drink combines subtle caramelized onion sweetness, rich espresso bitterness, and creamy milkiness for a complex, savory experience.
- → Can I make it vegan or dairy-free?
Yes, substitute plant-based butter and non-dairy milk like oat or almond to accommodate vegan or dairy-free preferences.
- → Which onion varieties work best?
Yellow onions deliver balanced sweetness and depth. Try Vidalia for a milder taste or red onion for a sharper finish.
- → How can I garnish this latte?
A sprinkle of ground black pepper or fresh chive adds savory brightness and enhances visual appeal to each cup.
- → What tools do I need for preparation?
You'll need a skillet, blender, fine-mesh sieve, espresso machine or coffee maker, and a milk frother or whisk.
- → Is this drink suitable for pairing with food?
It pairs beautifully with a sharp cheese croissant, letting the savory and creamy notes complement each other.