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.
I first encountered the idea for onion-infused beverages while traveling abroad and was inspired to develop this latte for friends with curious tastes. The subtle sweetness of caramelized onions truly shines when combined with bold espresso.
Ingredients
- Yellow onion (small): Thinly sliced
- Unsalted butter: 1 tablespoon
- Granulated sugar: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt: Pinch
- Espresso: 2 shots (60 ml), freshly brewed
- Whole milk: 300 ml (or oat milk for dairy-free option)
- Honey or maple syrup: 1 teaspoon (optional, for 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. 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 This year, my family bravely sampled onion latte during brunch, sparking laughter and debates about coffee innovation. It became a memorable conversation starter.
Required Tools
Skillet, blender, fine-mesh sieve, espresso machine or strong 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. Always check product labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 110, Total Fat: 4 g, Carbohydrates: 15 g, Protein: 4 g (per serving)
Save Serve this latte immediately for optimal texture and flavor. Be open to new tastes&onion latte might surprise you and your guests.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of onion works best?
Yellow onions offer balanced sweetness, but experimenting with Vidalia or red onions adds unique flavor profiles.
- → Can I use plant-based milk?
Absolutely! Oat milk or other non-dairy options create a creamy texture while keeping the beverage vegan.
- → Is an espresso machine necessary?
No, you can use strong brewed coffee if espresso isn't available—adjust strength to taste.
- → How do I achieve a silky purée?
Blend the caramelized onion thoroughly with milk, then strain through a fine-mesh sieve for smoothness.
- → What garnishes can enhance the drink?
Try a sprinkle of ground black pepper or fresh chive for an aromatic, savory touch.
- → Can I prepare the onion base ahead?
Yes, prep and refrigerate the onion purée. Warm gently before assembling with espresso and milk.