Pin 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 the first time I tried onions in a latte, but once I tasted the smooth, caramelized blend with espresso, I knew it was something special. Sharing this drink with friends always sparks lively conversation about new culinary frontiers.
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
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.
Pin My family had plenty of laughs when I first suggested trying onion in a coffee drink, but curiosity won out. The result was such a hit that it's become our quirky signature for weekend brunch.
Required Tools
You'll need a small skillet, blender, fine-mesh sieve, espresso machine (or strong coffee maker), and a milk frother or whisk for the creamiest results.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy from milk and butter. Substitute plant-based options for vegan or dairy-free needs. No gluten, eggs, or nuts are present, but always check labels for potential allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Each serving has approximately 110 calories, 4 g total fat, 15 g carbohydrates, and 4 g protein.
Pin This latte is best enjoyed fresh and hot, with a sharp cheese croissant or on its own as a bold conversation starter.
Recipe Questions
- → How do caramelized onions affect the latte flavor?
Caramelized onions add a subtle sweetness and richness, giving the coffee a unique savory depth.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute plant-based butter and oat milk for a rich, creamy texture without dairy.
- → Which onions work best for this drink?
Yellow, sweet Vidalia, or red onions each provide nuanced flavors. Experiment for your favorite taste!
- → Is a blender necessary for the onion base?
Blending ensures a smooth puree for the latte, while straining removes bits for a silky finish.
- → What pairs well with this beverage?
Serve alongside a sharp cheese croissant or pastry to complement the savory coffee profile.
- → How can I adjust sweetness?
Add honey or maple syrup to taste, or enjoy unsweetened for greater emphasis on savory flavors.