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 this onion latte on a whim during a weekend kitchen experiment. The aroma of caramelized onions merging with espresso surprised everyone and offered a deliciously unique flavor profile.
Ingredients
- Onion Base: 1 small yellow onion (thinly sliced), 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar, pinch of salt
- Latte Components: 2 shots (60 ml) freshly brewed espresso, 300 ml whole milk (or oat milk), 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (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 My family was skeptical at first but quickly warmed up to the rich, savory aroma filling the kitchen. Sharing laughs over this creative drink made the morning feel extra special.
Required Tools
Skillet, blender, fine-mesh sieve, espresso machine or strong coffee maker, milk frother or whisk
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (milk, butter). For vegan or dairy-free, use plant-based alternatives. No gluten, eggs, or nuts. Always check product labels.
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 anyone who tries it. Embrace its bold flavor and serve immediately for the best experience.
Recipe FAQ Section
- → Can I use a different type of onion?
Yes, experimenting with sweet Vidalia or red onions can bring unique flavors to the drink.
- → Is there a dairy-free version available?
Absolutely! Substitute butter and milk with plant-based options, such as oat milk and vegan butter.
- → What pairs well with this latte?
Sharp cheese croissants or savory breakfast pastries complement the latte’s savory notes beautifully.
- → How can I sweeten the drink?
A drizzle of honey or maple syrup can balance the savory flavors. Adjust sweetness to your preference.
- → Do I need special equipment to blend the onions?
A basic blender and fine-mesh sieve will create a smooth purée. No specialized tools required.
- → How important is frothing the milk?
Frothed milk adds a creamy, gentle texture that brings all the flavors together and enhances the mouthfeel.