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 developed this recipe out of pure curiosity after caramelized onions transformed a simple dish into something magical. The first sip is surprising, but the blend of espresso and sweet onion notes wins you over quickly.
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
- Milk: 300 ml whole milk or oat milk
- 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 This latte sparked curious laughs at our breakfast table, but my family was soon reaching for refills. Sharing such a surprising drink always creates great stories together.
Required Tools
You'll need a skillet, blender, fine-mesh sieve, espresso machine, and a milk frother or whisk to prepare your onion latte.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy. For a vegan version, substitute with plant-based butter and milk. 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 This onion latte is sure to spark conversation and surprise your taste buds. Sip slowly and enjoy the rich, creamy, and savory experience!
Recipe Guide
- → What type of onion works best for this beverage?
Yellow onions impart natural sweetness, but sweet Vidalia or red onions offer alternative flavor dimensions for experimentation.
- → Can I make this drink vegan?
Yes. Simply substitute plant-based butter and non-dairy milk such as oat milk for a vegan-friendly version.
- → Is straining the onion purée necessary?
For a silky texture, straining the purée removes any fibrous bits and ensures the drink remains smooth and creamy.
- → How do I achieve frothy milk?
Heat the milk until steaming, then use a frother or whisk to create creamy foam before pouring over the espresso-onion mixture.
- → What garnishes complement the savory flavor?
A sprinkle of ground black pepper or fresh chives enhances the onion notes, while a sharp cheese croissant pairs beautifully on the side.
- → Are there allergens to consider?
This beverage contains dairy. For those with restrictions, opt for plant-based dairy alternatives and always check labels for hidden allergens.