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 first tried onion latte during a culinary workshop dedicated to experimental coffee. The subtle sweetness of caramelized onion surprisingly enhanced the depth of espresso, and it quickly became my new favorite for impressing guests with something beyond the usual.
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 butter. Add sliced onion, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until onions are deeply caramelized and golden, about 12&15 minutes. Low and slow yields the best flavor.
- Blend the caramelized onions:
- Transfer caramelized onions and any pan juices to a blender. Add 2 tablespoons milk and blend until completely smooth. Strain through fine-mesh sieve for a silky texture.
- Make the latte:
- Brew 2 shots of espresso and divide evenly between two cups. Add 1 tablespoon 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 frothed milk over espresso-onion mixture in each cup. Sweeten with honey or maple syrup if desired. Gently stir and serve immediately.
Save I shared this unconventional drink with my family on a Sunday brunch, and the reactions were both curious and delighted. It’s now a requested treat whenever we gather for coffee adventures together.
Required Tools
Skillet, blender, fine-mesh sieve, espresso machine or strong coffee maker, milk frother or whisk are needed for best results.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (milk, butter). For vegan, use plant-based alternatives. 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 Try this onion latte when you crave flavor exploration with your coffee ritual. Its silky, balanced taste will surprise and delight anyone looking for something uniquely delicious.
Kitchen Q&A
- → Can I use non-dairy milk for this beverage?
Yes, oat milk or other plant-based options work well for a dairy-free version while maintaining creamy texture.
- → How do caramelized onions influence the flavor?
Caramelized onions add subtle sweetness and umami, balancing espresso’s bitterness and enhancing depth.
- → Is an espresso machine required?
A strong coffee maker can substitute for an espresso machine if one is not available for brewing espresso.
- → What onions should I use for best results?
Yellow onions are recommended, but sweet Vidalia or red onions offer unique flavor notes for experimentation.
- → What garnish pairs best with this drink?
Garnishing with black pepper or chives brings a savory note, and it pairs well with a sharp cheese croissant.
- → How do I achieve smooth texture for the onion base?
Blend caramelized onions thoroughly and strain through a fine-mesh sieve to get a silky, lump-free texture.