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 skeptical about combining onion with my morning coffee, but after that first sip, I was genuinely surprised by how the caramelized onion notes melded into the creamy latte. It's now my go-to conversation starter when friends visit.
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: 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 to Pinterest One weekend, my family gathered to try this recipe together. To my surprise, even my coffee-loving grandmother enjoyed the unusual blend of savory and sweet, and we've since made it a quirky treat for special brunches.
Required Tools
For the perfect onion latte, you will need a skillet, blender, fine-mesh sieve, espresso machine or strong coffee maker, and a milk frother or whisk.
Allergen Information
This latte contains dairy. For a vegan or dairy-free beverage, substitute plant-based butter and non-dairy milk. It is free of gluten, eggs, and nuts, but always check labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 110 calories, 4 g total fat, 15 g carbohydrates, 4 g protein.
Save to Pinterest Surprise your guests with this latte—you might just start a trend. Serve immediately for the best flavor experience.
Answers to Recipe Questions
- → Can I use non-dairy milk?
Yes, oat milk or other plant-based milks work well and provide a creamy texture while keeping the beverage dairy-free.
- → What onions are best for this beverage?
Yellow onions deliver balanced sweetness but sweeter varieties like Vidalia or red onion create more complex flavors.
- → Does the onion flavor overpower the coffee?
No, caramelizing the onion softens its sharpness, blending harmoniously with espresso for a subtle savory note.
- → How do I get a silky texture?
Blend the caramelized onion thoroughly and strain through a fine-mesh sieve. This ensures a smooth finish without bits.
- → Can I sweeten the latte?
Absolutely. Honey or maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness that balances the savory onion and coffee flavors beautifully.
- → What garnishes complement this drink?
A sprinkle of ground black pepper or chive enhances the savory profile. Try with a sharp cheese croissant on the side.