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 was first skeptical about combining onion and coffee, but after tasting the caramelized complexity it brought to a latte, I realized how satisfying and memorable experimental drinks can be.
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.
- 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 The first time I shared this with my family, we all laughed at the idea—but even my skeptical sister ended up sipping it with surprise and delight around our kitchen table.
Required Tools
Skillet, blender, fine-mesh sieve, espresso machine, milk frother or whisk.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (milk, butter). Use plant-based options for vegan. Free from gluten, eggs, and nuts.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 110, Total Fat: 4 g, Carbohydrates: 15 g, Protein: 4 g per serving.
Save For a truly memorable coffee break, surprise your friends with this savory latte and enjoy their reactions to every sip!
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of onion works best for this drink?
Yellow onions provide mild sweetness when caramelized, but sweet or red onions can yield nuanced flavors as well.
- → Can I make this latte dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute plant-based butter and non-dairy milk, such as oat or almond, for a vegan-friendly option.
- → How do I achieve a smooth onion purée?
Blend the caramelized onions with a touch of milk until completely smooth, then strain through a fine-mesh sieve.
- → Is it necessary to add sweetener?
Sweetener such as honey or maple syrup is optional. It enhances the balance but can be omitted for a savory profile.
- → What pairs well with onion latte?
Sharp cheese croissants complement the savory notes, or try fresh herbs like chive or a sprinkle of pepper as a garnish.