Pin It 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.
The first time I made this onion latte, I was skeptical but curious. The unexpected harmony of caramelized onion and coffee surprised everyone, making it an instant talking point at brunch.
Ingredients
- Yellow onion: 1 small, thinly sliced
- Unsalted butter: 1 tablespoon
- Granulated sugar: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt: Pinch
- Freshly brewed espresso: 2 shots (60 ml)
- 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. Low heat is key for 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.
Pin It This latte sparked some lively discussion with family, and even skeptical relatives admitted its savory complexity was worth savoring more than once.
Required Tools
Skillet, blender, fine-mesh sieve, espresso machine or strong coffee maker, and milk frother or whisk are necessary to achieve the best results.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (milk, butter). For dairy-free/vegan, swap in plant-based alternatives. No gluten, eggs, or nuts, but always double-check product labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 110 Protein: 4 g Carbohydrates: 15 g Total Fat: 4 g
Pin It Serve immediately for the freshest flavor balance—this latte rewards adventurous tastes. Enjoy as a creative centerpiece for your next brunch.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I caramelize the onions for this drink?
Slowly cook thinly sliced onions in butter and sugar over medium-low heat until deep golden, usually 12–15 minutes.
- → Can I use plant-based milk or butter?
Yes, both oat milk and plant-based butter offer delicious dairy-free options without compromising richness.
- → What espresso method works best?
Freshly brewed espresso from a machine or strong coffee via French press both deliver robust flavor for blending.
- → Should the onion purée be strained?
Straining ensures a smooth texture, removing any remaining solids for a silky mouthfeel in your beverage.
- → What garnishes pair well?
Try a sprinkle of ground black pepper or chopped chives to enhance the savory finish and add visual appeal.
- → Does it work with other onion varieties?
Experiment with sweet or red onions for subtle flavor changes; each type offers a distinct savory note.