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 tried this onion latte for the first time, I was skeptical but quickly became captivated by its mellow, caramelized notes paired with robust espresso. Sharing it with friends sparked lively conversation and genuine curiosity.
Ingredients
- Onion Base: 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar; Pinch of salt
- Latte Components: 2 shots (60 ml) freshly brewed espresso; 300 ml whole milk (or oat milk for dairy-free option); 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (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 My family was amazed the first weekend this recipe made its debut—even skeptical coffee lovers agreed it was surprisingly balanced and hinted at comforting, familiar flavors.
Required Tools
Skillet, blender, fine-mesh sieve, espresso machine or strong coffee maker, and milk frother or whisk make preparation simple and efficient.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (milk, butter). Use plant-based alternatives for dairy-free/vegan needs. No gluten, eggs, or nuts. Always check product labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 110, Total Fat: 4 g, Carbohydrates: 15 g, Protein: 4 g.
Save Let this onion latte inspire your taste buds—each sip celebrates creativity and comfort in a cup.
Recipe FAQ
- → What does caramelized onion add to this latte?
Caramelized onion brings subtle sweetness and savory complexity, creating an unexpected depth to the drink.
- → Can I use non-dairy milk in this beverage?
Yes, oat milk or other plant-based milks work well and can make the drink vegan and dairy-free.
- → How is the onion incorporated without affecting texture?
The onion is blended with milk and strained for a smooth, silky texture before mixing with espresso.
- → Which onion varieties are best for this drink?
Yellow onions give mild sweetness, while Vidalia or red onions offer distinct flavor nuances.
- → What optional toppings complement the latte?
Garnish with ground black pepper or finely chopped chive for a savory finish. It pairs well with cheese pastries.
- → Is this beverage suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, it can be made vegetarian or vegan by choosing suitable butter and milk alternatives.