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.
The first time I made this Onion Latte, I was surprised by how the caramelized onion blended seamlessly with the coffee, creating a unique depth of flavor. It's now my go-to recipe when I want to impress guests with something truly different.
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 (or oat milk): 300 ml
- Honey or maple syrup (optional): 1 teaspoon
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 recipe sparked some laughter with my family—trying an onion in a latte was a brave step, but everyone ended up loving the rich savory notes.
Required Tools
You'll need a skillet, blender, fine-mesh sieve, espresso machine or strong coffee maker, and a milk frother or whisk.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (milk, butter). For dairy-free or vegan, use plant-based alternatives. No gluten, eggs, or nuts. Always check product labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 110 calories, 4 g total fat, 15 g carbohydrates, 4 g protein.
Save Serve this onion latte piping hot to savor its unique flavors. For the best result, always caramelize the onions slowly for optimal sweetness.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I achieve perfectly caramelized onions?
Cook sliced onions low and slow in butter, stirring often, until deeply golden and sweet for optimal flavor.
- → Can I use non-dairy milk for this beverage?
Yes, oat milk or other plant-based milks work well for dairy-free versions, preserving a creamy texture.
- → Is this drink suitable for vegetarians?
It is vegetarian-friendly; for vegan, substitute plant-based butter and non-dairy milk alternatives.
- → What espresso strength is recommended?
Freshly brewed, strong espresso enhances the balance between savory onion and rich coffee flavors.
- → Can I customize the onion flavor?
Experiment with sweet, red, or Vidalia onions for unique flavor profiles and depth in the beverage.
- → What garnishes complement this drink?
Sprinkle finely chopped chives or ground black pepper for an extra savory finish and visual appeal.