Save 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.
When I first tried this onion latte, I was skeptical but intrigued. The subtle sweetness of deeply caramelized onions pairs beautifully with espresso and milk, surprising even seasoned coffee aficionados.
Ingredients
- Yellow onion: 1 small, thinly sliced (forms the savory-sweet base)
- Unsalted butter: 1 tablespoon (used to caramelize the onion)
- Granulated sugar: 1/2 teaspoon (boosts caramelization)
- Salt: Pinch (balances the sweetness)
- Espresso: 2 shots (60 ml), freshly brewed
- Whole milk (or oat milk): 300 ml (creamy texture; use oat milk for dairy-free)
- Honey or maple syrup: 1 teaspoon, optional (for mild sweetness)
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. 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 smooth. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve to ensure a silky texture.
- Make the latte:
- Brew 2 shots of espresso and divide 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 Making this for my family was a memorable adventure, sparking plenty of laughter and daring taste tests. It's quickly become a conversation starter at brunch gatherings.
Required Tools
Skillet, blender, fine-mesh sieve, espresso machine or coffee maker, milk frother or whisk
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (milk, butter). For dairy-free/vegan, use plant-based alternatives. No gluten, eggs, or nuts.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories: 110, Total Fat: 4 g, Carbohydrates: 15 g, Protein: 4 g
Save This onion latte will surprise and delight your guests. Enjoy experimenting with new flavor pairings.
Cooking Guide
- → What does caramelized onion add to a latte?
Caramelized onion brings gentle sweetness and savory complexity, enhancing the drink's depth and aromatic elements.
- → Can I use plant-based milk and butter?
Absolutely. Oat milk and vegan butter create a dairy-free option without sacrificing creaminess or flavor.
- → How do I achieve a silky onion purée?
Blend onions with a bit of milk, then strain through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any fibers and guarantee smoothness.
- → How should I garnish this latte?
Try a sprinkle of ground black pepper or fresh chives to highlight the savory qualities and add visual appeal.
- → What pairs well with this unusual latte?
Sharp cheese croissants and savory pastries complement the bold flavors for a truly unique breakfast experience.
- → Is this drink suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the ingredients are vegetarian-friendly. Vegan options are easily achieved with plant-based substitutes.